Watamu is a beautiful hidden gem in Kenya that’s home to many attractions! Even though Watamu is not big in itself, it makes for a great tourist spot with all the activities and attractions it has to offer!
Here are some of the historical and cultural sites in Watamu that you should explore:
-
The Ruins of Gedi
The “Ruins of Gedi” are remains of an ancient village that dates back to the 14th century! It’s the most popular tourist attraction in Watamu! The ruins are surrounded by the Arabuko-Sokoke forest, which served as a site for cultural traditions. The site is of great historical significance and has been studied by various archaeologists.
The ruins consist of a mosque, a palace and several houses. All the structures are single-storey and made of stone! Pillar tombs, characteristic of Swahili architecture, are also found here.
Gedi was an important trading site and was growing and becoming more prosperous day by day, until it was eventually abandoned in the 17th century! The exact reason for its abandonment is still a mystery. There are some theories but none of them have been proven yet! A day trip to Watamu is incomplete without visiting this site.
Gedi Ruins,
Image Source: TheDailyBeast.Com
-
Visit the village nearby on Watamu Village Road
Go to Watamu Village Road and interact with the locals there. You’ll find various stalls with vendors selling shoes and other items. Interact with them and get to know more about their culture! Some vendors also sell hand-made traditional crafts. Don’t forget to bargain the price for whatever you like before buying it! Experience the culture of Watamu here at the village.
Other Attractions/Activities in/around Watamu
-
Watamu Marine National Park
If you’re taking a day trip to Watamu, this place is a must-visit! The Marine Park is well-preserved and it’s known for the bottle-nose dolphins it has. Here are some of the activities for you in the Park:
- Snorkeling
- Stand-up paddle-boarding
- Kitesurfing
- Scuba diving
Watamu Underwater,
Image Source: DiveReport.Com
-
Mida Creek
The mangrove swamps of Mida Creek are known for their beauty and the rewarding birdwatching experience you get there. The best way to explore Mida Creek is to take a sunset dhow cruise and watch as the birds paint the sky with their colorful hues.
You can also have fresh crab dishes at the Mida Creek Conservation Community that has a crab farm. That’s not the end of the list! Mida Creek also contains a boardwalk that you can explore! It’s beautiful, especially at sunset!
Mida Creek is one of Watamu’s hidden gems! It’s one of the best places to visit in Watamu.
Mida Creek,
Image Source: CanadianKikuyu.Blogspot.Com
-
Spot Humpback Whales!
You can spot humpback whales a little off the coast of Watamu! It’s a wonderful sight and an amazing experience!
-
Bio-Ken Snake Farm
The Bio-Ken Snake Farm is the largest snake farm in East Africa and it’s located in Watamu! The Snake farm is used as a research centre for dog bites. However, it’s open to visitors.
At the Bio-Ken snake farm, you can check out various reptiles and amphibians including snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles and frogs! It’s a great place to take your kids for an educational trip.
Bio-Ken Snake Farm,
Image Source: NaturalToursAndSafaris.Com
-
Arabuko Sokoke National Park
Spot rare and unusual wildlife at the Arabuko Sokoke National Park that’s just a few minutes away from Watamu. Don’t forget to take in the panoramic views of the Forest at the Nyari viewpoint!
Some parts of Mida Creek are also part of the Arabuko Sokoke National Park!
Wildlife highlights: Syke’s Monkeys, buffaloes, elephants, golden-rumped elephant-shrew, and over 250 species of birds! The Forest is also home to many species of reptiles and amphibians.
Antelope at Arabuko Sokoke National Park,
Image Source: SantoriVillas.Com
So, what are you waiting for? Take a day trip to Watamu and experience the culture of Watamu!
You can head over to our “Flights” section for more information on flights to Kenya!
