The Coast, Kenya
Malindi experiences a tropical monsoon climate. This indicates warm to hot temperatures and high humidity year-round, with distinct rainy and dry seasons.
Average daily temperatures in Malindi range from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F). Humidity levels stay high, often exceeding 70-80%. This makes temperatures feel warmer, especially during the hottest months (January to March). The coolest months, June to August, remain warm.
High Season (December to March) brings sunshine and clear seas. Ideal for all beach activities, diving, and snorkeling. Resorts and restaurants operate fully, creating a lively atmosphere. Prices for flights and accommodation are higher. The destination sees more crowds; book well in advance.
Shoulder Season (July to October, parts of November) presents pleasant weather, especially July to August with cooler, drier conditions. You find fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. This period is good for deep-sea fishing (October to March) and kitesurfing (June to September for favorable winds). Occasional short rains occur in October and November.
Lowest prices, lush landscapes.
Lowest prices for accommodation and tours. Landscapes become lush and green after the rains. Tourist numbers are minimal.
Heavy rainfall impacts road conditions and some outdoor activities. High humidity. Sea conditions rough, limiting water activities. Some establishments may close or operate with limited services.
Monsoons and intense heat considerations.
Long rains (April-June) bring significant rainfall, possibly localized flooding and road impacts.
January to March brings intense heat and humidity. This may cause discomfort. Plan activities for mornings and late afternoons.
Best seasons for various pursuits.
Beach & Water Sports (Snorkeling, Diving, Swimming): December to March. Deep-Sea Fishing: October to March.
Kitesurfing: June to September. Wildlife Viewing (nearby parks like Tsavo East): June to October.
Kenya sets specific visa and entry requirements for all visitors. Familiarize yourself with these rules prior to travel. All visitors to Kenya, unless exempt, secure an e-visa prior to arrival. Visas on arrival are no longer available. The Tourist Visa (Single Entry Visa) is the most common. It permits a single entry, valid for up to 90 days. Extensions for a maximum six-month stay are possible in Kenya.
Apply online via the official Kenya e-Visa platform. Create an account, complete the form, upload all required documents, and pay the fee. Processing usually takes two to three business days, but allow more time during peak periods. Print your e-visa approval letter. Your passport must have six months validity from entry and two blank pages. A recent passport-sized digital photo, confirmed return ticket or onward travel itinerary, and accommodation booking confirmation are also needed. IVisa and VisaHQ are consumer services that aid visa applications.
For transit through Kenya up to 72 hours.
Citizens of certain African countries have visa exemptions. Check official Kenya Immigration website for current lists.
Approx. US$51 for single entry tourist e-visa, plus service charge. Fees vary; check official website.
Present passport, printed e-visa approval, and completed arrival card. Biometric capture (fingerprints, photo) is common.
National parks and marine reserves have entry fees (conservation fees). Professional filming needs Kenya Film Commission permits.
Kenya uses the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Manage your travel funds with these budgeting insights.
The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Banknotes are 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 KES. Coins are 1, 5, 10, 20 KES. Exchange major foreign currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) at banks, authorized forex bureaus, or ATMs. Forex bureaus frequently present slightly better rates. ATMs are in Malindi town; inform your bank of travel plans. Credit cards accept at larger hotels, resorts, mid-range to luxury restaurants, and supermarkets. Smaller establishments, markets, and vendors typically require cash. M-Pesa, Kenya's mobile money service, is widely used locally; some businesses accept it.
These approximate daily costs vary based on spending habits, season, and choices.
Tipping is appreciated in Kenya.
Consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic well before your trip (at least 4-6 weeks prior) to discuss specific vaccination needs. Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for travelers arriving from or transiting through countries with risk. Carry your valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid (especially if eating outside major hotels or in local eateries), Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap), Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and Polio. Rabies vaccination is for travelers spending significant time outdoors, working with animals, or visiting remote areas.
Traveler's Diarrhea and Sunburn/Heatstroke are common. Practice strict food and water hygiene. Wash hands frequently. Use high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Stay hydrated with bottled water. Seek shade during midday. Schistosomiasis can occur from contaminated freshwater; avoid swimming in lakes or rivers. Clean and disinfect cuts promptly.
For water, drink only bottled water. Check seals. For food, eat hot, thoroughly cooked food. Avoid raw meat and unpeeled produce.
Never drink tap water. Be cautious with street food. Avoid salads washed in tap water. Limit freshwater contact.
Malindi has a generally safe atmosphere compared to some larger Kenyan cities. Petty crime, like pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. This is more frequent in crowded areas, markets, and on beaches. The Malindi town center, especially after dark, warrants caution. Avoid walking alone on beaches at night; they can be isolated and present safety risks.
Stay aware of your surroundings. Use reputable taxis, especially at night. Keep valuables locked in your hotel safe.
Avoid openly displaying large amounts of cash, expensive jewelry, or high-value electronics. Do not resist if confronted by a robber.
Malindi has several private clinics and a district hospital. For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Mombasa or Nairobi, with more advanced medical facilities, may be needed. Pharmacies are available for basic medications. Dial 999 for police, fire, and ambulance services. Response times vary. Highly comprehensive travel insurance is advisable.
Insurance should cover medical emergencies, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and personal liability. Check policy for adventure activities.
Emergency numbers: Police/Fire/Ambulance: 999. Tourist Police (Nairobi): +254 (0)20 6000100. Keep embassy and hotel contacts, plus travel insurance hotline.
| Category | Coverage Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Medical | Emergency medical treatment & hospitalization. | Full coverage for health emergencies. |
| Evacuation | Emergency medical evacuation to major cities or home country. | Mandatory; check for high limits. |
| Trip Protection | Cancellation, interruption, and baggage loss. | Consider for financial protection. |
