Destination: Kenya
LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION
Itinerary: Sun, Surf & Swahili
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TWO WEEKS / MOMBASA TO LAMU
The convenient north–south layout of the coastal road system makes this 500km trip very straightforward and completely flexible timewise. You could travel end to end in a few days, but two to three weeks gives you ample time to explore all the major sites.
The best place to start here is the coastal gateway of Mombasa, where exploring the city’s Old Town is a must. You can then choose whether to head north or south; for this itinerary we’re starting with the latter, as it makes a nice progression.
The first stop on the way down is quiet Tiwi Beach, a tranquil white-sand paradise perfect for self-caterers. Just down the road, you can head on to Diani Beach for a taste of the more full-on resort experience, with all the activities you can handle.
At the far southern end, near the border with Tanzania, Funzi and Wasini Islands provide a dose of real, unspoilt coastal life, and also afford easy access to the excellent Kisite Marine National Park.
On the way back north, detour off the main road to visit the densely forested Shimba Hills National Reserve, home to the rare sable antelope, and the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary.
Once you’ve passed Mombasa and the northern beach strip, a stop at the charming small town of Kilifi is essential, if only to admire the spectacular creek views from the massive road bridge. From here you can also visit the Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve and Gede ruins, two real highlights of the coast, en route to the historic town of Malindi, now a popular resort centre.
Finally, at the end of the trail awaits the wonderful Lamu archipelago, tropical paradise and Swahili heritage gem. As well as exploring the old town and taking the mandatory dhow trip, the much quieter Paté and Kiwayu Islands are well worth two or three days of your time.
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