Diani Beach | Kenya Safari and Diani Beach Holiday
Diani Beach seduces. The swaying palm trees, the vibrant Swahili culture, the piercing blue waters, and the sands so white they dazzle. It is so dreamy and fascinating that, for six consecutive years, it was voted the best beach in Africa by the World Travel Awards.
Our Diani beach holidays are tailor-made to fully immerse you in the intricacies of this fascinating Kenyan beach. They are curated to introduce you to the most luxurious coastal resorts and bewilder you with the beauty of some of Diani’s major attractions.
Even better, all our Diani beach holidays are on an all-inclusive basis. Everything from airport pick up, all transfers, hotel bookings, meals, and activities are covered in the cost of our package. All that is left is for you to book and start enjoying your vacation.
Next, we will look at some of the best things to do during your Diani safari as well as where to stay.
Contact us to Start Planning your Kenya Safari and Diani Holiday
Call or WhatsApp us at +254719222430 or email safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com or james@ajkenyasafaris.com to start planning your Kenya Safari and Diani Beach holiday today.
Out Most Booked Diani Beach Holidays:
| Our Most Booked Safaris for 2023 | Price Per Person From | View the Itinerary |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Day Amboseli National Park Safari | From GBP 864 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 3-Day Meru National Park Safari | From GBP 1285 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 3-Day Tsavo East and West Safari | From GBP 770 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 4-Day Keekork Lodge Safari | From GBP 1111 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 4-Day L. Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari | From GBP 959 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 4-Day Masai Mara Luxury Family Safari | From GBP 1143 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 5-Day L. Naivasha, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari | From GBP 1359 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 5-Day Nairobi & Masai Mara Safari | From GBP 1134 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 6-Day Amboseli, L. Naivasha, & Masai Mara Safari | From GBP 2234 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 7-Day Honeymoon Safari to Kenya | From GBP 2016 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 7-Day Kenya Wildlife Adventure | From GBP 2060 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 8-Day Family Safari to Kenya | From GBP 2462 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 8-Day Helicopter and Wildlife Tour in Kenya | From GBP 9454 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 12-Day Kenya Wildlife & Beach Safari | From GBP 2688 | Detailed Itinerary |
| 14-Day Honeymoon Experience in Kenya | From GBP 5086 | Detailed Itinerary |
Diani at a Glance…
Diani Beach Kenya is located on the Kenyan south Coast, 30km south of Mombasa. It is hallmarked by blinding white sands hugged by piercing blue waters and an exuberant forest. Everything is perfect and surreal in Diani, from its calm and warm weather to its smooth waves and excellent accommodation facilities. There’s also a wide range of activities for those on Diani beach holidays, including skydiving, jet-skiing, surfing, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Next, we look at some of the things you can do while in Diani Beach.
Things to do in Diani Beach
Diani Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kenya. The white sand beaches and clear blue waters are a perfect backdrop for a variety of activities. Diani offers something for everyone, whether you want to relax and soak up the sun, or get active and explore the area.
Popular activities at Diani Beach include swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. More expensive activities to engage in while at Diani beach include deep-sea fishing, glass-bottom boat tours, visiting Baharini shopping center, visiting Watamu Marine Park, and more.
For those looking for a more adrenalin-pumping experience, there are also a number of water sports centers offering jet skiing, parasailing, Wakeboarding, and scuba diving. In addition to the beach, there are also several restaurants and bars in the area, as well as a variety of shops selling souvenirs and beachwear. Next, we look at the top tourist attractions to visit during a beach vacation in Diani.
Visit the Shimba Hills National Reserve
It isn’t a complete trip to the Kenyan coast without visiting the Shimba Hills National Reserve. The park is an exceptional coastal forest with the highest population of African elephants, not only in Kenya but in East Africa in general. The reserve is also the largest coastal forest in East Africa.
During your trip to Shimba Hills National Reserve, you’ll find staggering amounts of sable antelopes, elephant shrews, and bush-tailed mongoose. During your trip to Shimba hills, you will also spot bushbucks, colobus monkeys, duikers, buffaloes, leopards, bush pigs, serval cats, giraffes, genets, Suni shrews, and red duikers. There are also over 111 bird species to explore and a variety of reptiles, including pythons, geckos, lizards, and cobras to explore.
Explore East Africa’s Oldest Mosque- Kongo Mosque
At the estuary of the Kongo River, amid huge baobab trees, sits the iconic Kongo Mosque, a monumental building built in the 13th or 14th century by Arab merchants. There’s a deep and fascinating history to be discovered here, as well as stunning architecture and grounds for relaxing.
Visit the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and Reserve
Established in 1973 to protect the scenic Wasini Island and its endemic marine life, the reserve is one of the most fascinating snorkeling locations in the country. There are about 250 fish species to be discovered here, as well as 70 dolphins and a variety of sea turtles, and gastropods. Expect to see pufferfish, angelfish, parrotfish, clownfish (nemo), and porcupine fish.
Explore the Kaya Kinondo Forest
A visit to the Kaya Kindo Forest is a cultural experience, nature walk, and history lesson all at once. As you make your way through the extensive coral forest, you are introduced to its over 190 tree species, some of which the Mijikenda use as aphrodisiacs and others as medicines.
The aura and ambiance within the forest is unmatched and even better is that you can transmit your worries to an ancient tree by embracing it.
But there’s a catch – to the Mijikenda, the forest is as sacred as any mosque, so visitors must remove their headwear and wrap a black shawl around their waists.
Visit Fort Jesus
Completed in 1593, the Fort is a beautiful example of 16th-century Portuguese architecture. It served as the stronghold for Mombasa, the second-largest city in Kenya at the time and home to one of East Africa’s biggest slave markets. Inside, you can explore over 80 rooms and corridors with exceptional views. Today, it is a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays Mombasa’s fascinating history.
Jet skiing in Diani
Jet skiing is a popular water sport that offers thrillseekers the perfect way to enjoy the waves. Diani Beach in Kenya is one of the best places to go jet skiing, thanks to its beautiful coastline and warm waters. The cost of jet skiing in Diani Beach varies depending on the rental company, but it is generally affordable. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, the waters off Diani Beach are perfect for riding the waves, performing tricks, and generally having a blast.
Visit Mombasa Old Town
Mombasa is a beautiful city located on the coast of Kenya about 45 minutes from Diani beach. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and unique culture. Visitors to Mombasa can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the city’s old town to taking a food tour of the many restaurants. Mombasa is also home to a number of historical sites, such as the Fort Jesus Museum and the Old Town Hall. With so much to see and do, Mombasa is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about Kenyan culture.
Learn Swahili Culture and Traditions.
The Swahili people are an ethnolinguistic group inhabiting the Swahili Coast, in East Africa. They are estimated to number around 100 million people, making them one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa. The Swahili people have a rich culture that is heavily influenced by their Islamic faith of it early visitors from the middle east. Central to Swahili culture is the concept of hospitality, and guests are always welcomed with open arms.
Another important aspect of Swahili culture is the importance of family. Families are typically large and extended, and children are raised with a strong sense of community and cooperation. In terms of traditions, the Swahili people have many unique customs, such as brideprice (a payment made by the groom’s family to the bride’s family) and Uchi (a system of respect based on age and seniority). Overall, the Swahili people are warm and friendly people with a rich culture that is steeped in tradition. During your vacation in Diani beach, include a day to visit the Indigenous people and more about their culture.
Take a guided tour of Mombasa Old.
Mombasa Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kenya’s most important cultural and historical destinations. Here, you can explore the fascinating architecture, experience the vibrant local culture, and learn about the city’s history dating back to 1593.
Where to Stay During your Diani Beach Holidays
From chic, high-quality resorts to unmissable classics, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing accommodation. Next, we look at the best hotels in the south coast of Kenya along Diani Beach. We will start with the nice hotels that deliver awesome services but are pricy. Then look at the cheaper alternatives.
The Sands at Nomad Hotel
We’ll call it- there isn’t a more deserving hotel for a Mombasa safari than the Sands at Nomad. The stunning hotel sits amidst 25 acres of indigenous forest and is fronted by even more spectacular stretches of white sands and blue sea.
The rooms are dazzling, and each has a private jacuzzi, spacious sitting room, humongous terrace, and fabulous interior decor. The dining? Impeccable, with the hotel featuring three world-class restaurants and luxury private dining experiences.
Things to do at the Sands at Nomad Hotel
- Day trips to Chale Island or Wasini island.
- Full moon dinner-by-the-beach experiences.
- Dhow rides.
- Diving with sea turtles.
- Massage treatments at the SPA.
- Enjoy night life in nearby bars.
Swahili Beach Resort
A luxury five-star resort with jaw-dropping ocean views and an ambiance to die for, the Swahili Beach Resort was made for Kenya safari and Diani holidays. The whole establishment centers around the views- rooms either have views of the garden, ocean, or pool, and its four restaurants and lounge also overlook the ocean.
Rooms are tastefully designed and spacious, with free WIFI, round-the-clock room service, and spacious balconies. The food here is to die for with both meat dishes, Swahili food, seafood, and international cuisines on the menu.
Baobab Beach Resort and Spa
The Baobab Beach Resort and spa is lusciousness embodied, and here’s why. For one, the resort sits within 80 acres of tropical gardens with a riveting view of the Indian Ocean. Secondly, its rooms are the epitome of comfort and luxury, each fitted with modern amenities and a private balcony offering garden, pool, or ocean views.
Thirdly, its amenities range from an outdoor pool to a wide selection of lounges, bars, and restaurants. And last but not least, it’s impeccable services including 24/ room service. Only a few of the many hotels in
Diani Beach can match the quality of services you will enjoy at Baobab Beach resort and spa.
Kinondo Kwetu
Located south of Diani at the far end of the secluded Galu Beach, Kinondo Kwetu is where to go if you’re looking for a resort that exudes that home-away-from-home feel.
Rooms are well decorated and air-conditioned with en suite bathrooms, furnished balconies, and round-the-clock room services. Meals are delicious, al fresco, and made from locally sourced ingredients. And the list of things to do is wide and ranging and features activities like horse riding, yoga, sky diving, boat riding, tennis, and watersports.
Kinondo Kwetu Lodge is an ideal postcard lodge situated on an isolated stretch of white sands near the gorgeous Diani beach. It is a popular place to relax after a tour of mainland Kenya. It is not just ideal for honeymoon couples, but Kinondo Kwetu is also popular among couples, families, and luxury travellers who opt to vacation on Diani beach. Of all the hotels in Diani Beach, we vote Kinondo Kwetu as the overall #1 due to its stellar services.
The 5 Most Affordable Hotels in Diani Beach - Top Picks
There are many affordable hotels in Diani Beach that offer a variety of amenities, such as an outdoor swimming pool, restaurants, bars, and sun loungers. Most beachfront hotels in Diani offer activities for guests such as beach volleyball and water sports. Next, we look at the top 5 most affordable hotels in Diani Beach that offer good services.
Diani reef beach resort
Located right on Diani Beach, the Diani Reef Beach Resort is one of the most affordable hotels in Diani. This hotel offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, bars and restaurants, recreational facilities such as volleyball courts, and sun loungers for guests to relax on. Guests can also take part in water sports activities like snorkelling or diving at the resort’s dedicated dive center.
Ocean paradise resort
Another affordable hotel in Diani Beach Kenya is the Ocean Paradise Resort. This hotel offers a variety of amenities, including an infinity pool, restaurants and bars, and recreational facilities like tennis courts. Guests can also enjoy water sports activities like diving or fishing at the resort’s well-equipped watersports center.
Galu beach lodge
The Galu Lodge is one of the most affordable and nice hotels on Diani Beach. Located right on the beachfront, this hotel offers a range of amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, restaurants with ocean views, bars serving cocktails and beers, and sun loungers for relaxing in the sun by the sea.
Southern palms Mombasa
This Diani Beach hotel is located right on Diani Beach. It offers guests easy access to all of the area’s best beaches and attractions. With a range of comfortable accommodations available, this hotel is perfect for travelers looking for affordable luxury during their stay in Mombasa.
Papillon lagoon reef.
Located in the heart of Diani Beach, Papillon Lagoon Reef is one of the most affordable hotels in this popular beach destination. With a variety of amenities including an infinity pool, restaurants and bars, and recreational facilities like tennis courts and a fitness center. This hotel is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway at the coast, away from the busy life of towns.
Leopard beach resort.
Situated on Diani Beach, the Leopard Beach Resort is one of the most popular and affordable hotels in Mombasa. This hotel offers guests a wide range of amenities, including swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and recreational activities like diving or snorkeling.
Lotfa Resort Diani Beach.
Located right on Diani Beach, Lotfa resort in Diani is one of the most affordable hotels in this beach area. With a range of comfortable accommodations available, this hotel is perfect for travelers looking for budget accommodation during their stay at Diani Beach. It offers a beach bar, a large and clean sandy beach, free private parking, and a swimming pool. It is only a short center from the Diani shopping center.
Other affordable hotels on Diani Beach include the Arabella Hotel, Mombasa Holiday Village, Shimba Safari Lodge, and The Sands at Nomad Hotel. All of these hotels offer comfortable accommodations with excellent facilities for visitors to enjoy during their stay on Diani Beach.
Getting Around Diani Beach
Getting around Diani Beach is easy. There is a large fleet of Tuktuks, motorbikes, and taxis. You can also drive by yourself or rent a bike from one of the bike rental shops spread across Diani. Taxis can easily be found in the Barclays shopping malls, bazaars, Petros Diani shopping centers, Ushago, or the area around Nomad hotels. Taxis in Diani Beach are quite good and they are all in very good condition. The drivers are very nice, friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful with information about the region.
What is the Best time to go to Diani Beach?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as different people may have different opinions about when is the best time to visit Diani Beach. Some people may prefer to tour Diani Beach during the summer month. Others may prefer to visit during the winter months when the weather is cooler and less crowded. Others may prefer to visit during the cooler months of the year when there is less risk of getting sunburnt or suffering from heat exhaustion.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Diani Beach will depend on your individual preferences and travel plans. However, it is important to keep in mind that the peak tourist season in Diani Beach runs from December to February, so it may be more crowded and expensive during this time. If you are looking for a less crowded experience, then it may be best to travel to Diani Beach during the spring or fall seasons instead.
Why is Diani Beach famous?
Diani Beach is famous for its stunning white sand beaches, idyllic location along the Indian Ocean, and high-quality resorts and hotels. With its clear blue waters, serene atmosphere, and variety of things to do, it is no surprise that Diani Beach is ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in Kenya. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, or want to explore the nearby coral gardens and marine life, Diani Beach has something for everyone.
Is Diani the best beach in the world?
Many people would agree that Diani Beach is one of the top beaches in the world, due to its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. With a wide array of resorts and hotels catering to every type of traveler, as well as plenty of things to do and see in the surrounding area, Diani Beach is undoubtedly one of the most popular beach destinations in the world.
Can you swim in the Diani Beach Area?
Yes, you can swim on Diani Beach. The water is warm and calm, making it the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing dip or go snorkeling to explore the colorful marine life. However, it is important to exercise caution when swimming in Diani Beach, as currents can sometimes be unpredictable and there may be dangerous coral reefs hidden just below the surface. Always make sure to follow any posted warnings and to take proper safety precautions while swimming in Diani Beach.
How much does it cost to go to Diani Beach?
The cost of traveling to Diani Beach can vary depending on a number of factors, including the time of year you plan on visiting, your accommodation and travel preferences, and your overall budget. On average, however, budget travelers can expect to spend around $100-200 per day in Diani Beach, while luxury travelers may spend upwards of $500 per day.
Overall, Diani Beach is one of the top beach destinations in the world, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, wide range of activities, and accommodations.
Which country is Diani In?
Diani is located in Kenya, along the Indian Ocean coast. It is a popular destination among tourists, who come to enjoy its beautiful beaches and range of recreational activities.
How long is it from Mombasa to Diani?
It takes approximately 1 hour to drive from Mombasa to Diani. There are several options for getting from Mombasa to Diani, including private cars, taxis, buses, or motorbikes. However, if you choose to travel, be sure to plan ahead and leave plenty of time for your journey, as traffic can sometimes be heavy and the roads can be quite winding. You will need to pass through the Likoni ferry to access Mombasa from Diani beach.
Is Diani the same as Ukunda?
No, Diani and Ukunda are two different locations in Kenya. Diani is a beach town located along the Indian Ocean coast, while Ukunda is a small town about 16 km inland from Diani. However, both are popular tourist destinations in Kenya and offer visitors a variety of things to see and do
Is Diani Beach a malaria area?
The answer to this question can vary depending on a number of factors, including the time of year you plan on traveling, your itinerary while in Diani Beach, and your overall health. Generally speaking, however, it is recommended that travelers take anti-malarial medications before visiting Diani Beach, particularly if they are planning on spending a lot of time outdoors. Always consult your doctor or travel health specialist for specific advice on whether or not you should take anti-malarial medication while visiting Diani Beach.
Which Are the Best Shopping Centres in Diani?
Hopping from one shopping center to another is a popular pastime in Diani. Some of the best shopping centers in Diani beach are:
- The Diani Beach Shopping Centre, which is one of the largest and most popular malls in Diani, offers a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- The Mwembe Tayari Shopping Centre, which is a popular local shopping hub, with several small boutiques and shops.
- The Twiga Shopping Centre, is known for its wide range of clothing, jewelry, and craft stores.
- The Diani Boulevard Shopping Centre, which is ideal for those looking for designer fashion and high-end brands.
Other good places to shop in Diani include Baharini Shopping Centre, Mombasa town, as well as local shops.
How do I get from Mombasa to Diani?
There are several options for getting from Mombasa to Diani, including private cars, taxis, buses, or motorbikes. The easiest and most convenient way to travel is by private car, as it will allow you to enjoy the scenic journey between Mombasa and Diani Beach without having to worry about finding transport or making connections.
To get from Mombasa to Diani Beach, simply book your private car in advance, plan your itinerary ahead of time, and be sure to leave plenty of time to make the journey. You should expect the drive to take anywhere from 1-2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Enjoy the ride!
Whatever your travel style or budget, Diani Beach is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
Where is Diani located in Mombasa?
Diani is located along the Indian Ocean coast, about 16 km inland from Mombasa. This popular beach town is known for its stunning natural beauty, a wide range of activities and accommodations, and warm weather year-round. Whether you are a budget traveler looking for an affordable option or a luxury traveler looking for high-end luxury, Diani Beach has something for everyone.
How much does it cost from Mombasa to Diani?
On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around $100-200 per day in Diani Beach, while luxury travelers may spend upwards of $500 per day. However, no matter what your budget is, Diani Beach is well worth the cost and will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
If you’re looking for a breathtaking beach getaway, look no further than Diani Beach in Kenya. This world-famous tourist destination offers stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. In addition to its natural beauty, Diani Beach is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, making it the perfect place to enjoy exciting nightlife.
Getting to Diani from Nairobi by Flight.
If you’re traveling from Nairobi to Diani Beach, your best option is to fly. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, and most flights take just under an hour. Flights from Nairobi to Ukunda Airstrip have mostly boarded at Wilson airport or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. In most cases, your local safari companies or travel agents will book the Nairobi to Diani flights for you.
To book your flight from Nairobi to Diani Beach, start by researching your options online. You should look for flights that offer the shortest travel time, as well as affordable fares. Once you’ve found a few options that fit your budget and schedule, go ahead and book your flight directly through the airline’s website or a trusted booking site like Expedia or Kayak. Once you arrive at Diani Beach Airport, you can easily get to your hotel or resort by taking a taxi or arranging.
How to get to Diani beach from Nairobi?
If you’re looking to visit Diani beach from Nairobi, there are a few different options for getting there. You can take a flight from Nairobi to Diani Airstrip, which is located just a short distance away from the beach. Alternatively, you can also take a bus or train to Mombasa, and then catch a taxi or bus to Diani. Or, for the most convenience, you can hire a rental car or taxi to take you directly from Nairobi to Diani beach.
Which are the rainy months in Diani beach?
The rainy season in Diani Beach typically runs from March to May and October to November, although some areas may experience more or less rain depending on location and other factors. If you’re planning a visit during the rainy season, be sure to pack appropriate gear and plan your itinerary accordingly.