Overview
Wasini Island lies southeast of kenya opposite the harbour of the village Shimoni. It is app. 7 kilometres long and 3 kilometres across. Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park is situated on the southern coast of Kenya near Shimoni and south of Wasini Island in Kwale District near the Tanzanian border. Kisite park covers 11 square kilometres while Mpunguti reserve covers 28 square kilometres. The park covers anarea with four small islands surrounded by coral reef.
Itinerary
Hotel Pickup: In the early morning, around 6:30 am, you will be picked up from your hotel.
Drive to Shimoni: The drive from Diani to Shimoni takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, along the scenic Mombasa to Tanzania highway. Enjoy the views of the local culture and sugarcane plantations along the way.
Arrival in Shimoni: Upon arrival in Shimoni, you will proceed to pick up your park fee tickets.
Board the Traditional Arabic Dhow: After obtaining your tickets, you will board the traditional Arabic dhow called "Waswila." On the dhow, you will meet the captain, two crew members, and a tour guide who will provide you with the program for the day.
Swahili Breakfast: While on the dhow, you will enjoy a refreshing Swahili breakfast, including coffee/tea, fruits, bhajia, and mandazi.
Sail to Kisite Marine Park: The dhow, Waswila, will set sail to Kisite Marine Park. As the tour limits the number of guests, you will likely be among the first to arrive, giving you an advantage in spotting dolphins before other dhows arrive.
Snorkeling Experience: Upon reaching Kisite Marine Park, you will enjoy a personalized and professional snorkeling experience. The crew will guide you to the best snorkeling spots, where you can encounter dolphins, sea turtles, octopus, lobster, grouper fish, trumpet fish, moray eels, stingrays, starfish, and more. Please note that the presence of marine life cannot be guaranteed as the park is not a zoo, but the crew is trained to provide the best experience.
Underwater Photography: The tour provides an underwater camera to capture photos and videos throughout the day. The images will be uploaded to Dropbox, and you will receive a download link to access them.
Sail to Wasini Island: After the snorkeling experience, the dhow will sail back to Wasini Island, allowing you to relax on the spacious dhow while enjoying your own music or the provided music. Cold beverages will be available onboard.
Swahili Seafood Lunch: Upon arrival on Wasini Island, you will be served a delicious fresh Swahili seafood lunch, featuring specialties such as king crabs. Vegetarian and chicken options are also available for those who do not eat seafood.
Slave Caves Visit: After lunch, you will visit the Slave Caves on the mainland. Learn about the history of Kenya and the experiences of the people during colonialism.
Return to Hotel: After the tour and exploring the Slave Caves, you will drive back to your hotel, concluding the trip.
Cost Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation from your hotel to Shimoni in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Park fee tickets for Kisite Marine Park
- Traditional Arabic dhow cruise
- Professional captain, crew members, and tour guide
- Personalized snorkeling experience in two different locations within Kisite Marine Park
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
- Opportunity to spot dolphins, sea turtles, octopus, lobster, grouper fish, trumpet fish, moray eels, stingrays, starfish, and more
- Scenic sail to Wasini Island (weather permitting)
- Delicious fresh Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini Island
- Vegetarian and chicken options available for those who do not eat seafood
- Cultural insights and views of sugarcane plantations and coastal villages during the drive
Cost Excludes
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for the captain, crew members, and tour guide (optional)
- Additional food and drinks not included in the lunch
- Any additional activities or services not mentioned in the itinerary
