Marine & Coast
Watamu Marine Park Snorkelling
Glide over the coral gardens of Kenya's first marine park by glass-bottom boat, then slip into the water among parrotfish, angelfish and the occasional turtle.
- Duration
- Half day (about 3 hours)
- Group size
- 2 to 12 guests
- Best time
- October to March, at low tide
About this experience
Watamu Marine National Park was gazetted in 1968 and remains one of the best-protected reefs on the East African coast. We time your trip to the tide so the coral gardens are calm, clear and shallow enough for confident and first-time snorkellers alike.
Your boat captain grew up on this water. He will show you where the turtles graze, keep the group together and make sure nobody stands on the coral. Between swims we stop on the sandbank for fresh coconut and a rest.
Highlights
- Glass-bottom boat with shade and life jackets
- Snorkelling at two reef sites chosen for the day's tide
- Stop on the sandbank at low tide
- Marine park entry fees handled for you
What's included
- Boat, captain and snorkelling guide
- Masks, snorkels and fins
- Marine park fees
- Drinking water and fresh fruit
What to bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Swimwear and a towel
- A hat and a light cover-up
- Waterproof phone pouch if you have one
Common questions
How do I book a tour?
Send us a message on WhatsApp, call, or use the Plan My Trip form. We confirm availability, tide times and price, and you pay a deposit by M-Pesa, bank transfer or card. The balance is settled on the day.
Are your prices fixed?
Every trip is designed around your group size, dates and budget, so we quote individually rather than publishing one price for everyone. Our quotes always include park fees, guides and transfers so there are no surprises on the day.
Do you pick up from hotels?
Yes. All day trips and safaris include pick-up and drop-off at hotels, guesthouses and villas in Watamu. Pick-ups from Malindi, Kilifi and Malindi Airport can be arranged.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Boat trips depend on the sea, and safety comes first. If the captain calls a trip off we move it to another day or refund your deposit in full. Safaris and inland trips run in light rain.
