Welcome, tourists, to the best town to visit in the coastal with Adequate Safaris, Watamu. Your search has not landed you here by mistake, ready to embark on your journey to Watamu? Well look no further, because, you are indeed in the right hands and in the right place. You will enjoy lots of different activities, get to meet and dine with the locals and learn the beautiful history of Watamu.
Tag along with me as I share the best things I got to do in Watamu that made my vacation memorable, exciting and unforgettable;
- Mida Creek
- Love Island
- Watamu Marine National Park
- Arabuko Sokoke National Park
- Gede RuinsBio-Ken Snake Farm
- Marafa Canyon
- Snorkelling At Garoda Beach
- The Crab Shack Relax On Watamu Beach
- Walks Through The Mangroves
- Visit Kipepeo Butterfly HouseShop In Watamu Village
- Enjoy Sunset At Lichthaus BarView
- The Migrating Humpback Whales
- Try Local Cuisine
Mida Creek
Mida creek is a serene tidal inlet that offers a more laid back experience. It is surrounded by rich birdlife and thick mangroves, this experience feels like a dream come true, especially when the sun comes up. I got to enjoy walks along the suspended boardwalk and a stand up paddle boarding through the calm waters, which gave me suspenseful views of the creek. I enjoyed a crab meal at the Crab Shack Restuarant where there is a crab. Farm owned by the Mida Creek Conservation Community.
The name Love Island originated because the island is a heart shaped strip of bright white sand that comes out when the tides are low. Planned, executed and left for me to enjoy by Adequate Safaris, this was nothing short of what felt out of the world experience. I loved this part of my vacation in Watamu because it offered me countless encounters of marine life such as crabs, octopuses, oysters, starfish, beautiful corals and the puffers. If you enjoy walks, this will give you a nice place and reason to unwind while watching the sunset.
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Watamu Marine National Park
Watamu National Park is a secluded and well protected area, this place is perfect for water sport activities such as diving and snorkelling. It was among my checklist places that I was very much agitated to visit and one of the top attractions sites in Watamu. My day started in the morning where I took a boat ride in Mayungu’s crystal clear waters, I saw vibrant corals, turtles and wide range of fish.
Arabuko Sokoke National Park
If you are someone who is one with nature, this place will really excite you, being the largest coastal forest in East Africa. I got to enjoy a guided walk in the forest with a very knowledgable tour guide from Adequate Safaris. One thing that stood out for me, that I hope you will see is some of the birds and mammals that face extinction and how well they are protected. I managed to only go in the surface of the forest, but this is a magical place to offer you a break from the beach.
Gede Ruins
Gede Ruins is just a short distance to drive from Watamu, 10 minutes to be exact in the Kilifi district and also a must stop to have. It is a beautiful archaeological site if you want to understand and learn the history of Watamu’s past. It is surrounded with baobabs, fig trees and tamarind trees. It is a fascinating cultural experience, with remains of the town that date back to the 12th century.
The entrance fee is 500 Kenyan shillings.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm
I really loved wandering around this scenic place, not because I love snakes, but only because my husband wanted me to challenge myself against my fears. I would say it wasn’t that bad. Honestly, it was an awesome and quite thrilling experience with tons of different types of snakes. It serves as a snake sanctuary and also a research centre, for snakes, reptiles and snakebites. I learnt that they focus on producing life-saving anti-venom while also educating the community.
Marafa Canyon
Also known as Hell’s Kitchen and located 30km Northwest of Malindi, this place has beautiful and colourful rock formations, that give great backdrops for photography. It a place that you should include if you are on your honeymoon or even as a solo traveller. With a guide representative from Adequate Safari, you will see why this place fascinates everyone who visit the Coastal area. When there is high temperatures, the rocks catch fire and the earth split, hence the name the devils’s kitchen.
Snorkelling At Garoda Beach
At Garoda Beach, it is nearly impossible to run out of activities you can do. With plenty of Watersport activities to do such as kitesurfing, tubing, wakeboarding, diving and snorkelling even if you are a beginner. An interesting thing I found at Garoda Beach three kitesurfing schools that are owned by Duotone Pro Rider Jacopo Cantini. This place is mainly known for kitesurfing, mainly because they are able to predict the wind patters. It being my first time doing kitesurfing, I would say it was very safe and nerve racking.
The Crab Shack
Dining at the Crab Shack was nothing short of an experience. I loved the place and enjoyed views of the Mida Creek. This was quite a fancy and a local way to enjoy delicious cuisines such as crab samosas, seafood platters and other mouth watering local delicacies. The restuarant is a great way to unwind and relax with cool breeze from the ocean as you watch the sunset in the afternoon.
Relax On Watamu Beach
Relaxing at Watamu Beach is a unique experience as you get to soak up the sun. With a nice weather year round, the fine white sand beaches and the blue turquoise waters makes Watamu stand out as a pristine beach to visit. It is well equipped with amenities such as changing rooms, restrooms and showers to make your stay as comfortable as possible. What makes relaxing on Watamu Beach that made my partner really bubbled up with joy, is feeling their feet on the warm white sandy beach and drawing art. This is a perfect place for an honeymoon excursion.
Walk Through The Mangroves
The walks are great way to have fun in Watamu and let yourself feel free. With a couple of walking trails in Dabaso and around the Crab Shack area. When everything is glowing and the sunset is up is the best time to have these beautiful strolls along the mangroves.
Visit Kipepeo Butterfly House
I love seeing butterflies and my visit to Watamu and around Arabuko Sokoke offered me a close-up look at these colourful species. This was the most interesting thing I enjoyed, the flowers, plants and small trees makes Kipepeo Butterfly House bloom with unique beauty. I got to learn the entire cycle of butterflies such as moths and caterpillars and the chance to see them hatch. It is very budget-friendly and the fact that it is not just an attraction site but also an informative and engaging activity to have makes Watamu more sweeter with these winged creatures.
Shop In Watamu Village
Watamu has beautiful hand made art scene, that will make you want to posses a couple in your household. There are many shopping places to get unique souvenirs in Watamu Village such as gift stores, different vendors and along the streets. Some of the gifts you should take home are the handmade crafts like Ankara fabrics, baskets, sandals, wooden crafts that will allow you to remember what Watamu offered you. To avoid being overpriced on these items, act like a local resident and try to blend in. Watamu Village provides you endless opportunities to purchase and at affordable prices, but don’t forget to negotiate the prices of your desired items.
Enjoy Sunset At Lichthaus Bar
This is a well known spot for viewing the golden sunset. Watamu has designed this place in a way that makes your more intrigued to visit the place, they have installed hammocks, beanbags, cocktails and a live Dj who makes the vibes and atmosphere worth your time, money and energy. The bar is open daily from noon until late, so you definitely have no excuse not to visit the place during your stay in Watamu.
View The Migrating Humpback Whales
Despite Kenya being famous for safari parks and National game reserves, one thing that is very fun to see is watching the migrating Humpback Whales. For breeding reasons, these whales usually migrate from colder grounds to warmer tropical breeding areas. They travel vast majority of long distances to search for these grounds, so when you get to see them it feels very special.
The best time to spot these whales in Watamu is in the months of July and October, with August being their peak time to spot them. This is a rare opportunity that draws many tourists to book their trip with Adequate Safaris and make their way to visit Watamu.
Try Local Cuisines
If you have travelled before, their is one thing that you always look forward to in any place you visit, and that is trying different cuisines made by the locals and residents in the area. In Watamu, this should be a must activity. In Kenya, the Swahilis are known to be the community that makes the best dishes with unique mixes of spices from pilau, coconut curry, chicken biryani, viazi karai, and kachri babu among many other dishes that I guarantee you will love. Some of the best places that I went to and enjoyed these dishes include Hysteria Romana, Marafiki Beach Bar and Restuarant and Crab Shack Dabaso.
Where Watamu Is Located
Watamu is a great town nestled 100 kilometres north of Mombasa, it has beautiful white sandy beaches and coconut palms. Watamu attracts tourists from all over the world, creating new job opportunities for locals. The town lives to the reputation of being “Home of the sweet people”, hence the name Watamu. The town was shaped by years of maritime trade along the East African coast, and when you get to visit Watamu, you will feel the cultural influence that the trade left from Arabs, Portuguese and Persian traders.
Best Time To Visit Watamu
If you are planning to enjoy your trip in Watamu, book with Adequate Safaris. They provide informative information on the best time to visit Watamu, while also considering if its peak season and the best accommodation rates. The best time to visit Watamu is in drier months like January, February and August, visiting in the rainy season will limit you from enjoying diving and snorkelling.
Best Restaurants In Watamu
Watamu has some of the best restaurants that offer delicious sea food and local cuisines that is highly influenced by its early inhabitants, the Bajuni people. Some of the places I enjoyed delicious cuisines include;
Crab Shack Dabaso
Marafiki Beach Bar and Restuarant
Papa Remo Beach Restuarant
Hosteria Romana Watamu
Pilipan Restuarant
Things To Do In Watamu : FAQs
Is Watamu Worth Visiting?
The answer to this is absolute yes, Watamu has beautiful hidden gems that only surface if you pay extra and detailed attention and booking with great tours and travel company such as Adequate Safaris who give you a planned itinerary that has the best places to visit . Whether you looking forward in snorkelling, diving, boat rides, enjoying sea food, Watamu has something you will enjoy.
What Is Watamu Best Known For?
Watamu is best known to be a place that offers variety of water sports activities. It is known to be an archaeological site, a place with beautiful white sandy beaches, great luxurious hotels, rich marine life and great coral reefs.
Is Watamu Safe?
Watamu is generally considered to be a tranquil tourism hotspot for many tourists. It is known to be very friendly and welcoming to visitors, making the place very safe to visit with low crime incidents against tourists.
Final Thoughts
Watamu also known as the place of “sweet people” offers variety of activities to do and have fun in. With different beaches that you can hop from one to the other, exploring ancient ruins, kite surfing, you can barely run out of activities. Watamu naturally embodies the spirit of visiting a magical and wonderful place. To plan your vacation in Watamu and to get the most out of your experience, consider booking with Adequate Safaris as your best and only option.
Email them at deals@adequatesafaris.com or reach out to us at +2547 68 555 444/ +254 711 711 498
Governor’s Camp, Masai Mara
It was on a sunny Sunday afternoon while browsing on the internet that I came across a post on some of the best accommodations in the Maasai Mara. The post was quite interesting, and as I continued reading, one camp caught my attention. Governor’s camp, Masai Mara!
My friends and I had been deliberating on going on a safari adventure, but we had no idea where to start in terms of looking for an accommodation that would give us an unmatched experience of luxury and comfort while also maintaining that old-fashioned and simple way of life. So, while I continued perusing through the review, I could tell Governor’s camp was what I was looking for. It was then that I quickly assessed the Governor’s camp website to review their rates, facilities, services, and activities, and see if they would suit my needs and those of my friends.
Upon a few deliberations with my two friends, we settled for a three-day two nights safari adventure at Governor’s Camp in the Masai Mara. Of all the safari booking options available to us, we chose Africa Holiday Safaris because of their exemplary service, personalized packages, and budget-friendly prices.
From the moment my friends and I checked into the Camp, we were met with a true definition of simplicity, luxury, and comfort, and magnificent wildlife spectacles. We were treated with attention and friendliness, right from our arrival at the camp.
In short, the experience at Governor’s Camp was to die for, and I would highly recommend it for anyone seeking an unparalleled safari adventure packed with luxury, comfort, good vibes, and a touch of simplicity.
So, if you are planning on going on an exclusive safari adventure, here are a few things you need to know about the Governor’s Camp.
Location
Our stay at the Camp spanned from Friday to Sunday. We decided to take a flight to the Camp since we found that we would get to our destination effortlessly by air. To ensure that we had everything for our journey, we booked our flight from Wilson Airport to Musiara Airstrip using Safarilink. The flight charges were about $217 per passenger (for a one-way ticket).
Saying that the view from the aircraft was breathtaking is an understatement. From the aircraft, the view of the forests, rugged rivers, and plains below was simply breathtaking. And as we entered the Masai Mara, the view was stunning to say the least. It was a remarkable experience!
However, while you may also reach the Governor’s camp by road, it is important to note that while you will drive on a paved road from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, accessing the camp will require a boat ride and a walk, as vehicles are left on the opposite side of the river.
The flight took approximately 1 hour to Musiara airstrip, where we found a vehicle from the camp, ready to transfer us to the Governor’s Camp, where we would spend the next three days and two nights.
As we got closer to the camp, we could see the huge canvas tents from afar, majestically immersed in the stunning flora and fauna of the Mara in the north-west corner of the national reserve. The camp was strikingly set in a riverine forest on the beautiful winding banks of the Mara River in the heart of the Masai Mara. My friends and I were truly excited to have a life-changing experience at the camp while fully immersed in the wild.
Accommodation
When we arrived at the camp, we were welcomed by a friendly staff member, who showed briefed us on the activities and services at the hotel and where we would be staying. The staff was very accommodating of our numerous questions, something I found remarkable.
She showed us to our tents. And let me tell you, the tents exceeded our expectations! The tents were a blend of comfort, luxury, and breathtaking views. The tents which we had booked were the classic type, and had en-suite bathrooms and a private verandah from where we could catch the scenic views of the wild.
However, if you are travelling as a family, worry not because Governor’s camp also has 5 tents which are specifically designed for families.
As my friends went on to view their own tents, I could not help but throw myself on the large and beautiful bed, longing for the transformational adventure and blissful days that lay ahead of us.
Rates
The rates for the tents at Governor’s Camp vary depending on the season. For instance, we travelled in May, which is low season, and paid $424/adult/night on a full board basis. However, rates may rise to $936/adult/night in the high season.
One of the aspects when booking your stay at Governor’s Camp is the season, as it will greatly affect the prices you will pay, be it for the classic or family tents.
However, for an amazing package for the Governor’s Camp, just like the one my friends and I got, Masai Mara, reach out to info@africaholidaysafaris.com
Facilities and Services
The mess tent with a bar and deck overlooking the Mara River was my favorite spot to hang out with my friends. It was an excellent setup for us to chat and reminisce about the day’s activities and adventures with the sun setting on the horizon and the sight of the majestic wildlife beyond. Isn’t this what everyone dreams of while on safari? Well, our stay at Governor’s Camp was beyond magical.
Another facility that we really enjoyed at the camp was the spa. The massage therapy, using 100% natural products only, was nothing short of extraordinary. The soothing scent of the products and the calming sounds of nature allowed us to unwind after a long day of thrilling adventure, giving us a top-notch experience.
The camp also supplied us with natural shampoo, conditioners, shower gels, soaps, and body lotions, each crafted from locally sourced ingredients, connecting us to the raw beauty of nature while still exposing us to luxury and comfort.
Not forgetting the full-time supply of electricity and connectivity to Wi-Fi, which made our stay at the Camp even more luxurious and pleasant. The constant supply of electricity at the Camp enabled us to have our phones and cameras fully charged so that we could successfully document all the day’s activities of the adventure. Despite being immersed in the heart of the Masai Mara, the strong internet connectivity at the camp was what helped us stay connected to the outside world.
Dining
During our stay at Governor’s Camp, we had exemplary and delicious meals. I specifically loved the continental and English buffet, with eggs prepared in our preferred style.
Lunch, which was a three-course meal and always a delight, was served on the camp’s lawn with the tantalizing aromas wafting across Masai Mara’s clean air.
For dinner, the meals were served in both buffet style or directly to the plate.
As such, the stunning flavors, impeccable cuisines, and warm hospitality at the Governor’s Camp complemented the magic of the breathtaking Masai Mara.
I learned that special diets were available at the Camp, but with prior notification. Also, packed meals/picnics are provided for guests going for full or half-day game drives. We were also informed that bush meals were available but at an extra cost.
As our stay at the Governor’s camp was on a full-board basis, we were entitled to a variety of drinks, including beers, soft drinks, house wines, and ‘non-premium’ spirits. The selection of drinks offered completed the relaxed and indulgent atmosphere at the camp.
However, we were required to pay extra if we took champagne, premium spirits, liquors, and some selected fine wines.
Experiences
The experiences I encountered in Governor’s Camp were totally out of this world. Not even the money we had paid was enough for the exemplary and refined experiences we had at the camp. They were priceless!
When researching our stay at Governor’s Camp, we had read that the camp offers one of the best African safari experiences. And true to this, the game drives on the 4×4 vehicles gave us an opportunity to experience the breathtaking greenery and the magnificent wildlife in the Masai Mara, take photos, and still enjoy comfort.
Another exemplary service that we were offered when on the game drive was an experienced safari guide who made sure to educate us on ecosystems, animal behavior, and conservation efforts, making our adventure not only unmatched but also transformational.
Our preference was to go on the game drives early in the morning, when wildlife activity was at its peak due to the cool temperatures, and so that we could find time to engage in other activities during the day. However, you can still go for a game drive in the late afternoon, as the animals are also active at that time.
Personally, I got an opportunity to see lions, cheetahs, buffalo, zebras, antelopes, hyenas, rhinos, elephants, and giraffes, among other animals. On one of the game drives, I witnessed a lion in the act of making a kill. While I was sad for the animal that had been killed, I got an opportunity to experience the concept of survival of the fittest or natural selection in action, making me appreciate the beauty of nature even more.
An important thing to note is that if you want to experience the great wild beast migration in the Masai Mara and the Mara River crossings, the best time to visit the camp is between July and October. The wild beast, zebra, and gazelle migration from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara is one of the world’s most dramatic natural spectacles that offer guests at Governor’s Camp immersive and exceptional wildlife experiences.
My friends and I had taken breakfast early before leaving for the game drive. However, for longer excursions, the camp organizes freshly packed breakfast for the guests to take with them on the game drive.
I also learned that apart from the classic game drives, Governor’s Camp also has exclusive-use safari vehicles, which photographers can use for bespoke photographic safaris. So, in case you are a photographer who wants to capture the stunning views and the majestic wildlife in the Mara, Governor’s Camp should be on your bucket list.
On one of the days that we were at Governor’s Camp, we went on a hot air balloon safari. We booked the safari on-site and paid $450 for the experience. Children pay $350 in the low season. During the high season, adults pay $470, and children $370. However, the enchanting and unforgettable experiences that the hot air balloon provides guests are worth every coin if you ask me.
On the day of the hot air balloon safari, we left the camp just before dawn. My friends and I, and some other guests assembled at the balloon’s launch site was behind the camp, were eager to be suspended in a basket above the ground and to view the awe-striking wildlife and greenery of the Masai Mara. Just before the hot air balloon was launched into the air, we were given a briefing to make sure we were safe while in the air.
Well, true to this, we got to experience a jaw-dropping view of the Mara River, the forests, plains, and diverse flora and fauna of the Masai Mara. The hot air balloon safari lasted for about 45 minutes. However, some hot air balloon safaris may last for 1 hour.
I especially enjoyed the champagne breakfast we were given upon landing and the leisurely wildlife viewing on our way back to the camp.
The sundowner experience was also unforgettable for me. The golden hues of the setting sun were simply iconic. My friends and I watched the sun setting while sitting on the magnificent banks of the Mara River. We had been provided with light bites and our favorite drinks as we watched the stunning phenomenon while reflecting on the wildlife we had seen, and soaking in the stillness of the beautiful bushes in the Mara.
Other activities that you may want to experience while at the Governor’s camp include guided bush walks, bird watching, bush diners, Masai cultural visits, and horse riding. However, all activities should be pre-booked or arranged at the camp’s reception and may incur extra costs for guests.
Conclusion
The traditional and luxurious vibes of Governor’s Camp are worth every penny. Whether you want to travel to the camp as a group or solo, Governor’s Camp has something for you. My friends and I had transformational and unmatched experiences at the camp. From the game drives, hot air balloon safari, delicious cuisines, and a wide selection of drinks to the stunning views of wildlife and greenery in the reserve- everything was nothing short of exceptional. My stay at the Governor’s reminded me that the world is truly extraordinary, if only you slow down long enough to witness it in its full glory! For such an experience, reach out to info@africaholidaysafari.com for amazing and personalized packages to the Governor’s Camp and have an unforgettable safari adventure like my friends and I.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Best Season to Visit Governor’s Camp?
A: The best time to visit the camp is dependent on your budget and the specific experiences you hope to get at the camp. For instance, during the low season, Governor’s Camp rates may be reasonably lower compared to those during the mid and high seasons. In addition, during the low season, you may have a chance to view more wildlife due to cool temperatures (seasonal rain and sunshine) and to escape the crowds.
During the mid-season, guests may enjoy cool temperatures as well, which may allow abundant wildlife sights and lush greenery, and also less crowded stays at the camp. The rates for mid-season stays are slightly higher than the low-season rates but much lower than the high-season rates.
While you may pay much more to visit Governor’s Camp during high season, you will have the opportunity to experience the stunning wild beast migration and Mara crossings.
Q: Does Governor’s Camp Offer Hot Balloon Safaris?
A: Yes. Governors’ Camp offers guests hot balloon safaris. However, a hot balloon safari should be pre-booked or booked on-site and may incur extra charges. In the low season, adults are required to pay $450 for the experience and children $350. During the high season, adults pay $470, and children $370.
Q: What is the Best Way to Get to Governor’s Camp?
The best way to get to or access Governor’s Camp is by flight. This is because Governor’s Camp is located on the north-west corner of the Masai Mara National Reserve on the banks of the Mara River. You can book a flight from Wilson Airport using Governor’s Aviation for a direct flight to the camp or Safarilink from Wilson Airport to Musiara airstrip, followed by a 30-minute drive to the camp.
However, if you choose to reach the camp by road, it is essential to note that the road from Nairobi to the Masai Mara is paved, and accessing the camp will require a boat ride and a walk, as vehicles are left on the opposite side of the river.
Q: Does Governor’s Camp Offer Guests Sundowner Experiences?
A: Yes. Governor’s camp provides guests with unforgettable sundowner experiences. The camp has three sundowner spots, including riverbanks, open plains that 360° view, and panoramic riverbanks. You are offered some light bites and your favorite drink as you watch the majestic and breathtaking setting of the sun.
Q: What are the Accommodation Rates at Governor’s Camp?
A: The rates at the Governor’s camp are dependent on the season, that is, low, mid, or high season. The accommodation rate during the low season may be approximately $424/adult/night on a full board basis. However, rates may rise to $936/adult/night in the high season.
Governor’s Camp has classic tents and 5 tents that are specifically designed for families.
Q: What Do Game Drives at Governor’s Camp Include
A: Game drives at Governor’s Camp include trips into the Masai Mara using 4×4 vehicles, allowing guests to experience the breathtaking greenery and the magnificent wildlife in the Masai Mara, take photos, and enjoy comfort.
An experienced safari guide accompanies the guests on the game drive, educating them on various topics such as ecosystems, animal behavior, and conservation efforts.
The best time to go for a game drive is early morning or late afternoon because wildlife activity is at its peak during those times.
Some of the wildlife you may see while on a game drive include lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, zebras, antelopes, hyenas, rhinos, elephants, and giraffes, among other animals.
Q: What are Some of the Activities at Governor’s Camp?
A: Among the activities at Governor’s Camp are game drives, hot air balloon safaris,guided bush walks, bird watching, bush diners, Masai cultural visits, and horse riding. However, all activities should be booked in advance or arranged at the camp’s reception and may incur extra costs for guests.
Q: Which Facilities Does Governor’s Camp Have?
A: Governor’s Camp has various facilities, including a mess tent with a bar and deck, a spa, full-time electricity and Wi-Fi connectivity, natural shampoo, conditioners, shower gels, soaps, and body lotions, each crafted from locally sourced ingredients. These facilities and services make guests’ stay at Governor’s Camp memorable, luxurious, and comfortable.
For more information on the Governor’s camp and an amazing package for your stay at the camp, reach out to info@africaholidaysafaris.com.
