Day Trip to Wasini Island

Cost: KES 5,200 per person

Wasini Island, located off the southern coast of Kenya near the Tanzanian border, is a popular destination for day trips. It’s known for its coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and cultural encounters with the local Swahili community. A typical day trip to Wasini Island often includes snorkeling or diving, dolphin watching, a visit to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, and a seafood lunch. Here’s a sample itinerary for a day trip to Wasini Island:

Day Program for Wasini Island

Morning Pickup and Transfer

• You will be picked up early in the morning from your accommodation facility in Diani at 7:00 AM.
• Drive to Shimoni, a small coastal village about 1.5-2 hours south of Diani Beach.

Boat Ride to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park

• Uponarrival at Shimoni, you will board a traditional dhow or a motorboat. The boat trip to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park lasts around 30-45 minutes.
• On the way, you may spot dolphins, which are common in the area.

Snorkeling/Diving at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park

• Enjoy snorkeling or diving in the protected waters of Kisite Marine Park, known for its vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and sea turtles.
• The snorkeling typically lasts around 1-2 hours, depending on your preference.

Dolphin Watching

• After snorkeling, the boat takes you on a dolphin-watching tour. Though sightings are common, they are not guaranteed.

Visit Wasini Island and Lunch

• The boat will dock on Wasini Island, where you’ll enjoy a guided walk through the island’s village, learn about the Swahili culture, and possibly visit a coral garden or ancient ruins.

• A fresh seafood lunch, often featuring crab, fish, and coconut rice, is served at a local restaurant. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Coral Garden Tour and Mangrove Walk (Optional)

• We offer an optional visit to the coral gardens on Wasini Island or a walk through the mangrove forest, which provides insights into the local environment.

Return to Shimoni and Visit Shimoni Caves (Optional)

• After lunch, you’ll return to Shimoni by boat. If time permits, we offer a brief visit to the Shimoni Slave Caves, a historic site linked to the slave trade.

Late Afternoon Return

• Depart from Shimoni and drive back to your accommodation, arriving in Diani in the late afternoon or early evening (around 5:00-6:00 PM).

What to Bring:

• Swimwear, towel, and sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes (for exploring the island)
• A hat and sunglasses
• Extra cash for souvenirs or optional activities
• A camera for capturing the stunning marine life and scenery

Cost Inclusions:

• Transport from your hotel and back
• Boat transfer
• Marine park fees
• Lunch on Wasini Island
• Dolphin watching and guided village tours
• All Government Taxes

Best Time to Visit:

The best time for this trip is during the dry seasons: between December to March and July to October, when the sea is calm and visibility for snorkeling and diving is excellent.