Costal Region

Mombasa Old Town & Fort Jesus

Located in Mombasa County

Mombasa Old Town is a maze of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, spice markets and mosques, with Fort Jesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site) standing as a guardian of history. The city also boasts nearby snorkeling spots and cultural festivals.

Culture: Mombasa is the heart of Swahili culture. Visitors experience Taarab orchestras, Swahili cuisine (pilau, biryani, kahawa) and Ngoma dances performed with drums, rattles and coastal chants.
Language: Kiswahili, with Arabic influences.

Malindi & Mambrui Dunes

Located in Kilifi County, north coast

Malindi combines history, beaches and culture. Visitors can explore the Vasco da Gama Pillar, ancient mosques and coral ruins. Just outside town, the golden Mambrui Sand Dunes stretch dramatically to the sea, offering quad biking, sandboarding and magical sunset views.

Culture: Malindi is Swahili at heart, enriched by centuries of Arab, Portuguese and Italian influence. Expect Taarab music, Swahili poetry (mashairi) and dances infused with drumming and storytelling.
Language:Kiswahili, Italian (widely spoken in Malindi due to its large expatriate community).

Watamu

Located in Kilifi County, north coast (between Malindi & Kilifi town)

Watamu is Kenya’s snorkeling capital, with coral gardens in the Marine National Park, kite surfing and glass-bottom boat rides. The nearby Mida Creek is a birdwatcher’s paradise with mangrove eco-tours and sunset dhow rides.

Culture: Watamu’s heritage blends Swahili, Bajuni and Giriama communities. Traditional dances like Kifudu (funeral ritual dance) and Giriama Kayamba (wooden rattle music) keep history alive.
Language: Kiswahili, Kigiriama, Kibajuni.