1 dayHalf or full day
Wasini Island & Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park
Wasini Island Dolphin & Snorkelling Day Trip
A full day on the south coast: dolphin spotting by boat, snorkelling in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park and a Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini Island.
- Day trip
- From Mombasa or Diani
- Day trip
Overview
Ask anyone who lives on the coast for the best day out from Diani and most will say Wasini. This full-day trip takes you to the far south of Kenya's shoreline, close to the Tanzanian border, where the reef is healthier, the water is clearer and the pace slows right down.
You set out by boat from Shimoni into the channel, where pods of bottlenose and humpback dolphins are often seen, then continue to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park for snorkelling over coral gardens alive with parrotfish, angelfish and the occasional turtle. Lunch is on Wasini Island itself: Swahili-style seafood such as grilled fish, crab and coconut rice, served in the shade. Afterwards there is time to relax, wander through the village or walk out across the island's coral flats before the boat takes you back to the mainland.
How the day runs
Diani pick-ups leave at around 07:30. Mombasa pick-ups leave earlier, about 06:00, because the drive to Shimoni is longer. You're back at your hotel in the late afternoon.
- Dolphin watching from the boat (wild animals, so never guaranteed)
- Snorkelling in a protected marine park
- Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini
- Return road transfers from Mombasa or Diani
Non-swimmers are welcome: life jackets are available and you can stay on the boat or snorkel close to it.
- Dolphin spotting in the Shimoni channel
- Snorkelling over coral in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park
- Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini Island
- Time to relax and explore the island village
- Pick-ups from Diani and Mombasa
Day by day
- Day 1
Diani or Mombasa → Shimoni → Kisite-Mpunguti → Wasini
Pick-up at around 07:30 from Diani or 06:00 from Mombasa and drive south to Shimoni. Board the boat and head out to look for dolphins, then anchor in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park for an hour or more of snorkelling, tides and weather permitting. Sail to Wasini Island for a Swahili seafood lunch, followed by free time to relax or explore. The boat returns to Shimoni mid-afternoon, and you reach Diani around 17:00, Mombasa a little later.
What's included
Included
- Return road transfers from Diani or Mombasa
- Boat trip from Shimoni with dolphin watching
- Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park entry fees
- Snorkelling equipment
- Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini Island
- Drinking water and soft drinks with lunch
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Shimoni Caves visit (optional)
- Tips and personal expenses
Rates
| Option | Kenya resident (KES) | Non-resident (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Shared, ex-Diani/South Coast | 7,500 | 75 |
| Shared, ex-Mombasa/North Coast | 8,500 | 85 |
| Private car + boat | 19,500 | 160 |
Per person sharing a double or twin room. Kisite citizen child KES 250. 3-11 pay about 60% (boat seat + lunch); under 3 free.
Good to know
- Dolphins are wild and sightings can't be guaranteed, although they are frequent in these waters.
- Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a change of clothes. A waterproof bag keeps your phone dry.
- Snorkelling conditions depend on the tide and the sea state. The skipper may change the order of the day to give you the best water.
- Seafood lunch can be swapped for a chicken or vegetarian option if you tell us when booking.
Questions about this trip
How far is Wasini Island from Diani and Mombasa?
Shimoni, where the boats leave from, is on the south coast near the Tanzanian border. The drive is usually about one and a half hours from Diani and around two and a half hours from Mombasa, depending on traffic and the route south of the city. That's why Mombasa pick-ups start earlier than Diani pick-ups.
Will we definitely see dolphins?
Dolphins are seen on many trips, but they are wild animals and no honest operator can guarantee a sighting. The skippers know where the pods usually feed and will spend time searching for them. Even on a quiet dolphin day, the snorkelling, the boat ride and lunch on Wasini make for a full and memorable trip.
Can non-swimmers join the snorkelling?
Yes. Life jackets are provided and the crew can help you float on the surface near the boat, where you can still see the coral and fish below. If you'd rather stay dry, you can watch from the boat, which often has a good view down into the clear water. Tell us in advance so the crew can plan.
What is the best time of year for the Wasini trip?
The calmest seas and clearest water are usually from about October to March, during the north-east monsoon. From around May to August the south-east monsoon can bring choppier water and lower visibility, and some trips may be rescheduled for safety. The trip runs through much of the year, so ask us about conditions for your dates.
Wasini Island Dolphin & Snorkelling Day Trip
Request to book
Tell us when and who's travelling. We check availability, then send a written quote with the total, the deposit and the due dates. Nothing to pay until you're happy with it.
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