- Old Town Mombasa
- Info@skynileadventuretours.com
- 0714575582
Kenya’s crown jewel of coral reefs, turtles and turquoise lagoons
Established in 1968 as one of Africa’s first marine parks, Watamu protects a spectacular coral garden, three tidal islands and one of the Indian Ocean’s most important green turtle nesting beaches.
Watamu Marine National Park covers 10 sq km of protected reef, seagrass beds, and mangrove-fringed lagoons; the surrounding 32 sq km reserve extends to Mida Creek. Together they form the heart of the UNESCO Watamu Biosphere Reserve, one of the most biodiverse marine environments on the East African coast. The reef supports over 600 species of fish, 110 species of stony coral and regular sightings of green, hawksbill and olive ridley turtles. Whale sharks pass through between October and February and humpback whales between August and October on their migration from the Antarctic. The park is best explored by glass-bottom boat with in-water snorkeling over the coral gardens off Turtle Bay. The famous three tidal islets, including the iconic Rocks, are Instagram magnets at low tide when you can wade between them. Local Ocean Trust runs a turtle protection program rescuing entangled turtles and monitoring nesting sites. Skynile can arrange a visit to its rehabilitation center, a moving addition to any day in Watamu.
One of the healthiest reefs on the Kenyan coast.
Frequent sightings and a resident nesting population.
See the reef without getting wet.
Wade between the iconic rocky islands at low tide.
A visual journey through Watamu Marine Park, captured by local photographers.
KWS park fee USD 17 adult, USD 13 child + boat charter USD 40–60 per person shared.
Best window 08:00–14:00 depending on tides.
Swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, dry bag, waterproof camera.
Life jackets provided; snorkel with a buddy; do not touch coral or turtles.
Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve is a protected marine area on Kenya’s north coast, about 140 km north of Mombasa, established in 1968 as one of Kenya’s first marine parks. It is known for coral gardens, rich fish life, and being a key part of the UNESCO Malindi-Watamu-Arabuko Sokoke Biosphere Reserve.
A short boat ride brings you over the coral gardens, where you drop in with a mask, snorkel, and fins for a 60–90 minute reef swim. Look out for parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels, octopus, and, with luck, a green turtle grazing seagrass.
Between snorkels, the captain often anchors near the tidal islets where you can wade in ankle-deep water for photos. Optional stop at the Local Ocean Trust turtle center before returning to Watamu by 14:00.
Our guides are born and raised on the coast, with deep knowledge of every hidden gem and untold story.
Every tour is tailored to your interests, pace, and travel style no shortcut experiences.
Seamless door-to-door service from your hotel or Moi International Airport to every destination.
Enjoy exclusive private tours for couples, families, or small groups seeking intimacy and flexibility.
Communicate comfortably in English, Swahili, French, German, or Italian with our friendly guides.
From affordable group tours to premium private experiences we cater to every budget and preference.
Safe, engaging, and educational tours designed for travelers of all ages, including young children.
Instant responses, real-time updates, and 24/7 support via WhatsApp for peace of mind.
Our local experts will craft a private itinerary around your dates, group size and pace. Same-day responses, transparent pricing, zero pressure.
