Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve

Explore Watamu Marine National Park

Watamu Marine National Park, on Kenya’s North Coast, is renowned for its white sandy beaches, coral gardens, and protected lagoons. Home to Kenya’s Marine Big Five, sea turtles, whale sharks, dolphins, whales, and billfish. it offers a unique marine ecosystem ideal for eco-tourism and nature-based experiences.

The park also hosts the humpback whale migration, part of the rare “Twin Migration” phenomenon. Visitors can explore coral reefs, Mida Creek, Whale Island, Gede Ruins, and Arabuko Sokoke Forest while enjoying diverse marine and birdlife, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure travelers alike.

How To Get There

Watamu Marine National Park is accessible via Malindi Airport, followed by a 30-minute drive south. Visitors can also reach the park from Mombasa, approximately 2.5 hours by road. Well-marked routes connect local towns to Watamu, offering convenient access for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in Kenya’s North Coast.

Why Travel to Watamu Marine National Park

Watamu Marine National Park is a must-visit for its pristine marine ecosystems and rich biodiversity. From snorkeling among colorful coral gardens to observing sea turtles, whale sharks, and dolphins, every visit connects travelers to nature. The park’s coastal forests and cultural landmarks, like Gede Ruins, offer a perfect blend of marine and terrestrial adventure, making it ideal for eco-tourism, wildlife photography, and educational experiences.

The park’s Mida Creek and Whale Island attract over 200 bird species, including migratory and indigenous birds, providing exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Seasonal humpback whale migrations and turtle nesting enhance the marine experience. Visitors can enjoy eco-friendly dhow tours, kayaking, and sustainable fishing, making Watamu Marine National Park an unforgettable destination for wildlife lovers and those seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Wildlife to See

Murchison Falls National Park offers one of Uganda’s richest wildlife experiences. Visitors can spot elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, and leopards roaming the savannah, while hippos and crocodiles thrive along the Nile. Antelope species like Uganda kob and hartebeest are abundant across the plains. The park is also a birder’s paradise, with over 450 species recorded, including the iconic shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and colorful kingfishers, making every safari unforgettable.

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Top Marine Adventures at Watamu Park

Explore coral reefs, Mida Creek, and Whale Island while enjoying dolphin watching, snorkeling, canoeing, birding, eco-tours, and sustainable marine-based activities in Watamu Marine Park.

Snorkelling

Birdwatching

Whale Watching

Cultural Tours

Beyond Destinations, Into Experiences

At Elida Tours & Safaris, we go beyond sightseeing. Each journey is carefully crafted to immerse travelers in authentic wildlife encounters, cultural connections, and unforgettable adventures, creating meaningful experiences that last far beyond the trip itself.

Best Prices

Elida Tours & Safaris offers excellent value, ensuring competitive pricing without compromising quality, comfort, or unforgettable safari experiences across East Africa.

Top Stays

We select only the finest hotels, lodges, and camps, reflecting our quality standards and enhancing the spirit and experience of every itinerary.

Safari Transport

On safari, each client enjoys a guaranteed window seat in fully equipped 4×4 vehicles, including radio, binoculars, first-aid kit, cool box, and reference materials.

Conservation Support

Elida Tours & Safaris actively supports recognized conservation initiatives, helping protect Africa’s fragile wildlife ecosystems.

Related Kenya Destinations

Kenya offers breathtaking safaris, diverse wildlife, stunning savannahs, vibrant culture, and coastal beauty—perfect for unforgettable African adventures.

Nairobi National Park

Masai Mara Game Reserve

Amboseli National Park

Craft your dream safari, your way.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor 5.0 64 reviews

Third time we have used Elida Tours. David is great, met us at airport, arrange safari, hotels and all transportation in Kenya.

We have used Elida Tours and David for several years. He is really helpful with hotel bookings, transport, game drives (safaris).

I have been using Elida for some time for transportation around Nairobi! The team is friendly, reliable and extremely helpful!

We travel through Nairobi annually and rely on David and his team to provide our transportation. His vehicles are comfortable and well maintained.

We had such a good experience with David and Moses on our Kilimanjaro trip that we came back and sought their assistance for a self drive we did across Kenya and Uganda.