Diani Beach has been voted Africa’s Leading Beach Destination six times in a row since 2014.The sand is soft and white, the sea is crystal clear, perfect for jet skiing and snorkeling, andinland from the coast, numerous palm trees and a semi-thick vegetation make the perfect tropical scene.Located along the Indian Ocean coast, 19 miles south of Mombasa, it is one of Kenya’s most prominent tourism resorts.You can either fly to Ukunda directly from Nairobi or Mombasa, or take the ferry from Mombasa town, then a taxi to Diani.
SITES AND ACTIVITIES
Depending on your time of visit, there are a number of activities that can be enjoyed on and around Diani beach. October to January usually has the clearest seas for snorkeling and diving. July to August is perfect for game viewing since this is the dry season, and most animals are out near the water sources. This is, however, a rough guide and all of these activities are available to enjoy all through the year. Here are the best places to visit while in Diani:
Shimba hills National Reserve
Shimba hills Reserve is one of the largest coastal forests in Africa. It has the highest number of African elephants in Kenya, about 500 to 600. It is home to the endangered Sable antelope and boasts over 111 bird species. Many other game animals can also be viewed here like the Giraffe, Leopard, Waterbuck, Bush pig, Black and white Colobus Monkey, among others. Activities to be enjoyed include game watching, archeological safaris and trekking. Carry your swimming gear and take a refreshing dip in the pool directly under Sheldrick waterfall once you are done with your walk.
They also have 4 camping sites full with shelters and restrooms and one private lodge if you plan on spending the night. Make sure to call ahead to arrange for accommodation.
Skydive Diani
How often do you get a chance to skydive above one of the most breathtaking beaches in the world? Skydive Diani makes it possible. Both licensed skydivers and amateurs get to enjoy a tandem jump from the sky as they offer a short training session to cover the basics. If you’d like to learn how to skydive, their expert instructors give one-to-one training, video debriefings and all the gear and equipment you’ll need. You could be leaping solo in about 4 to 5 days.
Kisite Marine Park
It is commonly known as Home of the Dolphins. The Park was established to protect the wide range of endemic marine animals and breeding migratory birds found in the area. Major attractions include the different species of birds, 250 recorded fish species, 70 resident dolphins (that you get to swim with if you’re lucky) sea turtles and whales.
Other activities you can participate in are diving, snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing and camping on their grounds. For more information, visit their page on the Kenya Wildlife Service website.
RESTAURANTS
Diani’s popularity is greatly influenced by its scenery as well as its cuisine. Apart from the delicious street food you can find in Ukunda town, here are some restaurants whose memorable food and feel will have you longing for Diani for years to come.
African Pot
They serve Swahili cuisine and other African dishes. Their meats are cooked in a variety of sauces and marinades that give their menu that unique exotic element.
The Edge Beach Restaurant
This palm-shaded beach restaurant is renowned for its unique cuisine featuring a blend of Swahili exoticism and Italian pizzazz. It also serves Mediterranean lunches, cocktails and dinners a la carte. They have great sea food too.
Sails Beach Bar and Restaurant
Sails is located on the beach front with Almanara. It is considered the best restaurant in Diani and arguably the best along the Indian Ocean coast. It has breathtaking, unique architecture and the sweeping sails give it an indescribable ambience. They serve a wide range of international dishes and seafood using the freshest ingredients, most of them from their 100% organic vegetable farm. Seafood is delivered daily by the fishermen and their head chef has worked in numerous high-end restaurants, including Jamie Oliver’s famed “Jamie’s Italian” in Manchester. Make sure to call ahead to book your table.
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant
This fine dining restaurant offers a fairytale experience as you watch the moon and stars through an open ceiling. Enjoy a glass of wine and a luscious serving of seafood at this unprecedented venue. We know it can be overwhelming to plan your trip around Diani, and so much time, effort and money can be wasted as you try to get the most out of your trip. No need to stress about it, at Sonder travels, we plan every single detail for you and ensure you experience the best of Diani.
All you have left to do, is enjoy your holiday. To book a tour with us, contact us on;
Email: hello@sondertravels.com Website: www.sondertravels.com Phone no: +1-980-999-9301