Things To Do
in Malindi
Malindi is a sun-soaked coastal town on Kenya's Indian Ocean frontier, renowned for its Swahili-Arabic heritage, palm-lined beaches, and warm, welcoming waters. The town blends ancient Swahili architecture with modern beach life, offering markets, seafood shacks, and easy access to nearby natural wonders. Its sheltered bays and coral reefs make it a favorite for snorkeling, dhow sailing, and sunset strolls along the promenade.
A laid-back pace, affordable adventures, and a rich cultural tapestry define Malindi’s coastal charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Malindi Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region through fascinating artifacts and exhibits. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the mix of Swahili and Portuguese architecture that tells tales of the past. Don't forget to stop by the local market to experience the vibrant colors and scents of fresh produce and handmade crafts.
For lunch, indulge in local cuisine at a nearby eatery, savoring dishes like fresh seafood and coconut rice. Post-lunch, head to the nearby Vasco da Gama Pillar, a significant historical monument, where you can learn about its importance in maritime history. Spend some time at the beach nearby, soaking in the sun and enjoying the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic walk along the Malindi coastline, taking in the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Choose a beachfront restaurant for dinner, where you can relish delicious grilled seafood while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. Cap off your evening with a stroll under the starry sky, perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local bar.
Kick off your day at the famous Malindi Beach, where the golden sands invite you to relax and enjoy the picturesque scenery. After a hearty breakfast at a beachside café, rent snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in the clear waters. Spend the morning swimming alongside colorful fish and coral reefs, immersing yourself in the underwater beauty.
After your underwater adventure, take a break for lunch at a beach shack, enjoying fresh seafood and tropical juices. In the afternoon, try your hand at kite surfing or paddleboarding, with local instructors available to guide you through the basics. Alternatively, simply relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
As the day winds down, enjoy a beach bonfire, gathering with friends or fellow travelers to share stories and laughter. Feast on a traditional Kenyan dinner, featuring dishes like ugali and sukuma wiki at a local restaurant. Watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi or local transport (short ride within town) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters
- Rich Swahili culture with affordable travel
- Excellent value for activities like snorkeling and dhow sailing
- Convenient base for nearby Gede Ruins and Mida Creek
- High heat and humidity can be intense
- Malaria risk requires precautions and prophylaxis
- Infrastructure outside tourist zones can be limited
- Occasional crowds during peak season and market hours
- "Hujambo?" - Hello/How are you?
- "Nzuri, asante." - I’m good, thank you.
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Choo kiko wapi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Bei ni ngapi?" - How much is this?
- "Ninaomba chakula cha mchana." - I would like lunch.
Places to Visit in Malindi
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic lighthouse-like monument at the edge of Old Town; ideal for sunrise and harbor views with boats bobbing in the water.
Narrow, shaded lanes with coralstone buildings, carved doors, and colorful markets—great for candid street photography and architectural detail.
Long sandy strand with palm silhouettes and vibrant evening skies; perfect for golden-hour portraits and wide seascapes.
Ancient Swahili city ruins set in a tranquil landscape; moody light and atmospheric ruins provide dramatic photography opportunities.
Waterways, mangroves, and birdlife against a backdrop of tranquil blues; outstanding for wildlife and landscape shots.
Food in Malindi
Malindi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant spiced rice often cooked with meat or vegetables; a staple at coastal gatherings and beachside eateries.
Must-Try!
Fish (often tilapia or goatfish) served in a rich coconut sauce, a quintessential Swahili coastal dish.
Flavorful grilled meat, commonly enjoyed with kachumbari and ugali or fries at local joints.
Pigeon peas cooked in coconut milk, a hearty curry-like staple often served with rice or ugali.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market area near the harbor offering fresh fruit, spices, fish, and bite-sized Swahili street snacks.
Coastal beach stalls that serve grilled fish, cassava chips, bhajia, and refreshing sugarcane juice with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a polite 'Jambo' or 'Habari yako?' and offer a handshake. Show respect to elders with a gentle touch on the arm and a verbal greeting.
Modest dress is appreciated in public and especially in Old Town or religious sites. Remove shoes when entering homes or certain mosques; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Malindi
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants. Small tips for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash in Kenyan shillings is widely accepted; many businesses also take mobile money (M-Pesa). Some mid-range to higher-end venues accept debit/credit cards, but carry cash for street vendors and informal stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with lots of sun; sea is warm and inviting. Expect occasional short showers; coastal winds provide relief on hot days. Best for beach days, water activities, and late-evening strolls.
March to May brings the long rains; seas can be rough and some outdoor activities may be limited. Lush countryside but plan indoor experiences or short, flexible outings.
June to August cools down; relatively dry with cooling coastal breezes. Pleasant for sightseeing, hiking near forests, and early-morning snorkeling when waters are calmer.
September to November is a transition period with mild to warm days and sporadic showers. A good time for wildlife viewing and exploring markets when crowds thin slightly.
Malindi at Night
Hiking in Malindi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest with marked trails, birdlife, and opportunities to see unique primates and endemic plants.
Scenic path connecting Gede Ruins to nearby viewpoints and coastal landscapes; suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Malindi by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights and connections to Nairobi and Mombasa; convenient for quick hops to the coast.
Main airport for Mombasa; larger international and domestic flight options; a common gateway to the coast before a short transfer to Malindi.
Kenya's primary international hub in Nairobi; serves as a gateway for long-haul flights before domestic connections to the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group with strong Swahili heritage, blending Bantu and Arab influences in language, cuisine, and crafts.
Visitors and locals from various parts of Kenya, contributing to a diverse, multilingual atmosphere.
Seasonal and long-term visitors drawn to the coastline, markets, and nature reserves.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime among locals and visitors; informal matches and local leagues can be found in towns, beaches, and fields.
Coastal winds and shallow waters make this a favored activity at select beach spots and seasonal conditions.
Accessible reef and marine life near Malindi and Watamu appeal to visitors of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malindi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable curries, mboga (greens) with ugali or rice, chickpea stews, and fruit-based desserts. Communicate no meat or fish to kitchens; request oil-free preparations where possible.