Plan your visit
Planning Your Trip
A trip to the marine park requires some preparation. Learn about travel times, optimal seasons, and what to bring on the boat.
Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park
Shimoni, Kwale County, Kenya
GPS -4.71389, 39.36222
Open directionsGetting there
How to reach the departure point.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Book a full-day dhow cruise from Diani Beach, Mombasa, or directly at Shimoni, which usually includes transport to Shimoni, the boat ride, snorkeling gear, and lunch. | Full day (starts ~7:30 AM, returns ~4:00 PM) | From USD 60-120 (depending on hotel transfers and lunch inclusions) | The most popular and hassle-free way to visit the park. |
| Boat: Board a traditional motorized dhow or speedboat from the Shimoni jetty across the channel to the marine park. | 30-45 minutes from Shimoni to the reef | KES 3000-5000 approx for a basic shared boat (excluding park fees) | Timing is often dictated by the tides; morning departures are highly recommended for the calmest waters. |
| Car: Drive or take a taxi from Diani Beach south along the Mombasa-Lunga Lunga highway to the Shimoni jetty. | 1.5 hours from Diani, 2+ hours from Mombasa | null | Road access gets you to the boat launch in Shimoni, not into the park itself. |
When to go
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- M
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open year-round. Sea temperatures stay between 25°C and 30°C. December to March offers the calmest seas and highest visibility. July to October is the season for humpback whale migration. Morning trips always offer calmer waters than afternoons.
What to bring
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Take motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.
The boat ride from Shimoni to the reef takes 30 to 45 minutes.
How the day runs
Typical timelines for a dhow excursion.
The standard schedule for tours departing from Diani Beach.
- Hotel Pickup
Transfer by road from your Diani or Mombasa hotel.
- Arrival in Shimoni
Pay park fees and board your dhow or motorboat.
- Dolphin Search
Cruise the deeper channels looking for resident bottlenose dolphins.
- Snorkeling
Swim over the coral reefs at Kisite Island.
- Lunch on Wasini
Head to Wasini Island for a traditional Swahili seafood lunch.
- Shimoni Slave Caves
Briefly tour the historic caves before driving back.
Important Park Rules
Kisite-Mpunguti is a no-take marine protected area. Fishing and hand-feeding fish are strictly prohibited. Do not touch, step on, or break any corals. Some operators discourage the use of fins to prevent accidental reef damage.
When watching dolphins, guides must maintain a respectful distance. Do not chase the dolphins or swim directly toward them. Read more about Dolphin Timing Guide.
Easiest way to do it
Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park Full Day Excursion
9 h 4.9 (19)
- Slave caves fees
- Option of fish/chicken/veg (water included)
- Marine park fees
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
From$120per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How far is it from Diani Beach?
The drive from Diani Beach to the Shimoni jetty takes about 1.5 hours.
Should I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Most tours provide masks and snorkels. Bring your own if you prefer a guaranteed perfect fit.
Are there restrooms on the boats?
Larger traditional dhows usually have a basic marine toilet. Small speedboats do not.