Travel Tips · Good to Know
Good to Know Before You Go
Practical advice for safaris, diving and excursions around Watamu, so you arrive ready and comfortable.
Into the wild, prepared
Safari tips
A few essentials to make your days in the parks comfortable, respectful and easy.
Clothing & what to pack
- Safari clothing is quite similar to trekking clothing: light, breathable layers you can add or remove as the day warms up.
- Light, neutral colours (khaki, sand, olive, muted green) are preferred over bright colours, white or black, which can startle wildlife and show dust more.
- A warm layer or light jacket for early-morning game drives, when it can be surprisingly cool.
- Closed, comfortable shoes for walking around camp, plus a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- A basic day bag for your camera, water bottle and any personal medication.
Health & safety basics
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm: the equatorial sun is strong even on cloudy days.
- Drink water regularly through the day; we include drinking water on every safari.
- Malaria prophylaxis and routine travel vaccinations should be discussed with your doctor before you travel.
- Always stay seated (or standing through the pop-up roof) with your seatbelt on while the vehicle is moving.
Etiquette & respecting wildlife
- Keep your voice low during sightings; sudden noise and movement can startle animals and disturb other guests.
- Never ask your driver-guide to approach an animal too closely or leave the designated tracks: park rules protect both you and the wildlife.
- Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. We keep expectations honest, and every drive still rewards you with the landscape itself.
- Photography is welcome, but flash photography at night sightings is discouraged as it can distress animals.
What to bring
- Personal medication & basic first-aid items
- Binoculars for a closer look (optional but recommended)
- Cash for tips and any personal extras
- Reusable water bottle to refill from our supply
What's provided
- 6/7-seater safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Driver-guide (Italian / English / German, by package)
- Drinking water throughout the drive
- Park fees as shown in your quote
Beneath the surface, responsibly
Diving tips
Watamu's reef is a protected marine park. A little preparation keeps it beautiful for the next visitor too.
What to wear & pack
- A rash guard or thin wetsuit top, even in warm water, protects against sun and light coral contact.
- Reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen only: standard sunscreens contain chemicals that harm coral, and some dive centres will ask to check yours.
- Swimwear that stays secure underwater, plus a change of dry clothes for after your dive.
- A cap and sunglasses for the boat ride out.
Health & safety basics
- Tell your instructor about any medical conditions, medications or previous ear/sinus issues before you dive.
- Stay hydrated before and after diving, and avoid alcohol the night before.
- Wait at least 18–24 hours after diving before flying, as advised by your dive centre.
- First-time divers dive with a certified instructor; certified divers dive within the limits of their qualification.
Reef etiquette
- Never touch, stand on or grab the coral: even a light touch can kill it and take decades to recover.
- Maintain good buoyancy control so fins and gear don't brush the reef.
- Don't feed or chase marine life; observe from a respectful distance.
- Take only photos: shells, coral and marine life stay in the park.
What to bring
- Personal swimwear, rash guard & towel
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Dive certification card, if certified
- A change of clothes for after
What's provided
- Full scuba equipment (BCD, regulator, tank, weights)
- Qualified PADI instructor or divemaster
- Boat transport to the dive/snorkel site
- Marine park entry fees, included in your quote
Beyond the beach
Excursion tips
From the Gede Ruins to Malindi town, a little local know-how goes a long way.
What to wear
- Light, breathable clothing suited to the coastal heat and humidity.
- Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is appreciated at cultural and religious sites, and in local villages.
- Sturdy, closed shoes for uneven ground at sites like the Gede Ruins.
- A hat and light scarf for sun protection during walking tours.
Health & safety basics
- Carry water and sun protection; some excursions involve walking in open sun.
- Use insect repellent, especially for excursions near forest or mangrove areas.
- Follow your guide's directions at natural sites such as Mida Creek and Hell's Kitchen, where terrain can be uneven.
- Keep valuables minimal and secure when visiting busy areas like Malindi town.
Local etiquette
- Ask before photographing people, and always respect a 'no' if someone declines.
- A friendly 'Jambo' or 'Asante' goes a long way; the coast's Swahili culture is warm and appreciates the effort.
- Dress and behave respectfully at the Gede Ruins and any active religious or cultural sites.
- Support local guides and craft sellers directly where you can; it's how the community shares in tourism.
What to bring
- Cash for small purchases, tips and entry extras
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Personal sun protection & insect repellent
- Camera or phone for photos
What's provided
- Private transport to and from each site
- English-, Italian- or German-speaking guide, by package
- Site entry fees as shown in your quote
- Bottled water on longer excursions
These tips are general guidance. Your specific safari, dive or excursion may have its own briefing from your guide or instructor, which always takes priority. Conditions, regulations and best practice can vary by season and location.
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