Things To Do
in Kilifi
Kilifi is a coastal town in Kenya known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is located along the scenic coastline of the Indian Ocean, offering a peaceful and serene environment for tourists. Kilifi is also home to the historic town of Malindi, with its ancient ruins and Swahili architecture.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, cultural experiences, and wildlife safaris in the surrounding areas.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Kilifi Beach. Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and the sound of waves as you relax on the sandy shore.
Visit the Kilifi Creek for a thrilling boat ride and explore the surrounding mangroves. Take a packed lunch and enjoy a picnic by the water.
Conclude your day by dining at a local seafood restaurant. Savor freshly caught fish while watching the sunset over the creek.
Begin with a guided tour of the historic Mnarani Ruins, once an important Arab settlement. Learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the site.
Head to the nearby Mnarani Mosque to appreciate its architecture and tranquil environment. Enjoy a light lunch at a local café afterward.
Return to your hotel to unwind. Opt for a sunset walk along the beach to reflect on the day’s discoveries.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery with beautiful beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse local communities.
- Variety of recreational activities including water sports and wildlife safaris.
- Growing tourism industry that supports local businesses.
- Mild climate that attracts visitors year-round.
- Limited job opportunities outside the tourism sector.
- Infrastructure challenges, such as unreliable internet and transport.
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism can affect local economies.
- Potential for environmental issues due to coastal development.
- Health facilities may be limited compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in Kilifi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant marine life in clear waters and coral reefs at this beautiful conservation area.
Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while engaging in water sports such as sailing and windsurfing in the serene Kilifi Creek.
Discover the ancient Swahili town of Gedi and explore its well-preserved ruins, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kilifi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kilifi
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the Kilifi Creek and the surrounding mangrove forests, ideal for photography.
Provides a picturesque backdrop of ancient ruins set against the Indian Ocean, offering great photo opportunities.
A beautiful spot to capture the tranquil waters and unique biodiversity, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Kilifi
Kilifi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mahamri are sweet, deep-fried pastries that are often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. They are best savored with a strong cup of Kenyan coffee.
Must-Try!
Biryani is a fragrant rice dish cooked with a blend of spices, meat, and sometimes potatoes. It is a popular feature at celebrations and special occasions.
This delectable curry features fresh seafood cooked in a vibrant coconut-based sauce, infused with local spices and served with aromatic rice.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kilifi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Kilifi Creek Fish Market to sample an array of freshly caught seafood, including prawns, crabs, and various fish prepared in local styles. The market offers a lively atmosphere and a chance to experience the daily hustle and bustle of the local fishing community.
Explore the streets of Kilifi to discover vibrant street food stalls offering diverse treats like Mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), Zanzibar Mix (a spicy lentil and potato mix), and Mshikaki (grilled bananas).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a handshake, and among the Swahili community, a slight bow or nod may also accompany the handshake.
In Kilifi, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate titles and showing deference in interactions.
When visiting Kilifi, it is respectful to dress modestly, particularly in more rural or traditional areas, to align with local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kilifi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kilifi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kilifi, Kenya. However, in some tourist areas or upscale establishments, a service charge may be added to the bill. It is not customary to tip on top of this charge, but if the service has been exceptional, a small tip may be appreciated.
In Kilifi, Kenya, cash is the primary form of payment, especially in rural areas. However, major credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops in more touristy areas. It is always advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions and to inquire about the acceptance of cards before making a purchase.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kilifi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry, ideal for beach activities and water sports.
Cooler temperatures and less humidity, good for wildlife safaris and outdoor activities.
Short rains may occur, but the landscapes are lush and green for nature walks and bird watching.
Long rains season with heavy downpours, not recommended for travel and outdoor activities.
Kilifi at Night
Hiking in Kilifi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal park known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves, offering scenic trails and opportunities for nature walks.
A large coastal forest that provides hiking trails amidst rich biodiversity, including rare bird species and unique flora.
While primarily a marine park, there are opportunities for hiking along the coast and exploring the surrounding islands.
A beautiful tidal creek offering nature walks and bird watching opportunities, with trails through mangroves.
Located near Mombasa, this trail provides a scenic view of the coastal landscape and diverse wildlife, including the chance to hike through rehabilitated land.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kilifi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kilifi by plane.
The main international airport serving Mombasa, located approximately 55 kilometers south of Kilifi.
An international airport located about 30 kilometers north of Kilifi, serving both domestic and a limited number of international flights.
An airport located near Diani Beach, approximately 50 kilometers south of Kilifi, catering primarily to tourists and charter flights.
The largest airport in Kenya situated in Nairobi, about 500 kilometers from Kilifi, providing extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A Bantu ethnic group primarily located in the central highlands of Kenya, but with a significant presence in Kilifi.
Ethnic groups along the Kenyan coast, particularly in Kilifi, known for their rich cultural heritage and history.
One of the largest ethnic groups in Kenya, the Luhya have a notable population in Kilifi due to migration and intermarriage.
An ethnic group originating from the Rift Valley, some Kalenjin people have settled in Kilifi.
A group of Bantu-speaking peoples indigenous to the Coast of Kenya, with significant communities in Kilifi.
A Cushitic ethnic group found in northern Kenya, some members have migrated to Kilifi.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and individuals who have moved to Kilifi from different regions.
The Soul of Kilifi
Discover the essence of Kilifi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kilifi, with local teams and enthusiastic support from the community.
Given Kilifi's coastal location, beach volleyball is a favored activity, attracting both locals and tourists.
Cricket has a growing following in Kilifi, with local clubs and schools participating in tournaments.
Rugby is gaining popularity, especially among youth, with several clubs promoting the sport.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular, with many young athletes participating in competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kilifi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kenyan cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Kilifi offer tasty vegetarian dishes such as spinach and peanut stew, coconut rice, and vegetable pilau.
Vegan options in Kilifi include dishes like lentil curry, coconut-based stews, and fresh fruit platters. Additionally, many local eateries are accommodating to vegan preferences upon request.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy meals like grilled fish with steamed vegetables, fresh fruit salads, and rice-based dishes, with several venues in Kilifi offering gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kilifi with these cultural adventures.
