Local Transportation: Diani Beach

Public Transportation in Diani

Public transport in Diani centers around shared minibuses, offering an authentic and economical way to travel.

Matatus are the main form of public transport. They follow fixed routes but have no designated stops; you can flag them down anywhere and alight anywhere along the route. Matatus are inexpensive but often crowded.

Matatu Travel Guide

No official route maps exist; ask locals or hotel staff for routes.
Pay cash directly to the conductor ("makanga") once seated. Fares are fixed.
Operate early morning (5-6 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM), running frequently when full.
Not wheelchair accessible; may present challenges for mobility issues.

Main Routes

Main route runs along Diani Beach Road, connecting Ukunda to resorts.

Efficiency Tips

Confirm fare before boarding. Be ready for a crowded journey. Watch your belongings.

Fare Payment

Cash payment to conductor. Fares fixed but may vary slightly by demand.

Navigating with Ease

Tuk-tuk Etiquette

Always negotiate fare upfront before beginning your journey.
Fares vary by distance; expect KES 100-300 for short rides.
Generally safe during the day, less advisable late at night for solo travelers.

Ride-Sharing Insights

Bolt and Uber are available in Diani Beach.
Pay via app or with cash; check driver and vehicle match.
Generally safer due to tracking and rating systems.

Rental Vehicle Considerations

Car Rental

Requires IDP, national license, credit card. Costs US$40-80/day.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Local vendors offer rentals; requires valid motorcycle license.

Bicycle Rental

Some resorts offer; local shops may also have options.

Driving Safety

Drive on left. Road quality varies. Night driving not recommended. Hiring driver is safer.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

For more comfort and direct travel, taxis and ride-sharing apps offer good options in Diani.

Licensed Taxis

Taxis are typically white or yellow, often with a yellow stripe, displaying a "taxi" sign.
Always agree on the fare before starting; meters are rarely used.
Short rides within Diani might cost KES 500-1,000. Cash is the main payment.
Find taxis at stands near resorts and shopping centers, or hail them.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Bolt (formerly Taxify) and Uber are available in Diani Beach.
Fares are typically cheaper than traditional taxis and provide price transparency.
Verify driver and vehicle details match the app before entering.
Generally safer due to driver tracking and rating systems.

Walking & Cycling

The beach provides an excellent surface for walking, especially at low tide.
Diani Beach Road has pavements in some sections, but walking requires caution due to vehicle traffic.
Some local guides offer walking tours of nearby villages or nature spots.

No dedicated bicycle lanes; cycling happens on the main road alongside vehicle traffic.
Safety is a concern due to vehicle traffic and lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure.
Avoid walking or cycling alone on deserted roads or beaches after dark.

Specialized Transportation

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

Traditional dhows and smaller motorboats for hire for snorkeling trips to the coral reef or sunset cruises.

Glass-Bottom Boats

Offer reef viewing without getting wet, providing a window into the underwater world.

Limited Accessibility

Infrastructure is limited. Public transport is not accessible. Higher-end resorts may have better features.

Vehicle Rental Considerations

Renting a vehicle offers freedom but comes with considerations. Understand the requirements and local driving conditions before deciding.

Rental Procedures

Valid national driving license, International Driving Permit (IDP), and credit card for deposit.
Minimum age for rental usually 23-25 years.
Local and international agencies operate from Mombasa (MBA) and Ukunda (UKA).
Prices start from US$40-80 per day for a basic saloon car.

Self-Driving & Alternatives

Self-driving is generally not recommended for first-time visitors due to challenging road conditions.
Hiring a car with a driver is a popular and safer alternative.
Motorcycle/Scooter rentals available, but road safety is a significant concern.
Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are fast but less safe and not recommended for tourists.

Road & Driving Information

Driving Laws

Drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas.

100 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.

Road Conditions

Road quality varies, with potholes common. Speed bumps are frequent and often unmarked.

The Likoni ferry crossing can experience long queues, especially during peak hours.

Parking

Most hotels and resorts offer free parking for guests. Public parking in towns can be limited.

Local Transport Choices

Tuk-tuks

Inexpensive for short distances. Negotiate fare beforehand.
Widely available and a common way to travel.
A fun, open-air experience.

Bicycle Rentals

Good for short distances or casual rides within the resort area.
Ensure proper locks if parking your bicycle.
No dedicated cycling lanes.

Safety on the Road

Avoid walking or cycling alone on deserted roads or beaches after dark.
Exercise caution in crowded market areas, where pickpocketing is a risk.
Be cautious of aggressive driving and overloaded vehicles.
Unmarked obstacles and wildlife on roads are possible.

Night driving is not recommended due to poor lighting.
Carjackings are rare but keep doors locked and windows up.
Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps, especially at night.
Keep valuables out of sight.

Walk, Bike & Specialized Options

Explore Diani's coastal environment with a variety of transportation methods, from leisurely walks to unique water tours.

Pedestrian & Cycling Routes

The beach offers an excellent surface for walking, especially at low tide.
Diani Beach Road has some pavements, but cycling shares the road with vehicles.
Avoid walking or cycling alone on deserted areas or after dark.

Water-Based Transport

Traditional dhows and motorboats for hire for snorkeling or sunset cruises.
Glass-bottom boats offer reef viewing without getting wet.
Popular for excursions to Wasini Island.
Diani's calm waters are perfect for various water activities.

Tour Buses

Not common for hop-on-hop-off; tours are typically arranged with private vehicles.

Accessibility

Limited infrastructure. Public transport is not wheelchair accessible. Higher-end resorts may have better features.

Cruise Connections

Mombasa Port is a cruise terminal, but no direct regular ferry services to Diani.

Local Experiences on the Move

Coastal Dhow Trips

Experience the traditional sailing vessels.
Enjoy sunset cruises for panoramic views.
Visit nearby islands like Wasini for marine park exploration.

Snorkeling & Diving Boats

Access prime snorkeling and dive spots.
Guided excursions ensure safe exploration.
Capture stunning underwater photography opportunities.

Final Transit Note

Plan your movements according to your comfort and safety preferences.

Consider combining public transport for local immersion with ride-sharing or taxis for direct and comfortable journeys.

Local Transportation