A Sunset Dhow in Lamu

A Sunset Dhow in Lamu

Evenings in Lamu arrive without urgency. As the heat loosens its grip, the light softens, and the water begins to take on the work of ending the day. A sunset dhow ride is not treated as an attraction here. It is simply one of the ways the island moves from afternoon into night. As the dhow slips into the mangrove channels, the town recedes. There are no engines, no timetable to chase. The wind steadies the sail, and reflections stretch across the water as the shoreline darkens. What remains is motion without effort and a sense that nothing needs to be added. Lamu’s relationship with water shapes this rhythm. Founded in the 12th century, the island is home to Lamu Old Town, the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. Known historically as Amu, it is still reached only by boat, either by speedboat or traditional vessel from Mokowe Jetty. That separation continues to influence daily life, including how evenings unfold. Sunset dhows usually depart from Lamu Town or Shela. Most visitors arrange a sail through their hotel or guesthouse, which will recommend a trusted local captain. Others find operators waiting near the jetty. Arrangements are informal. A brief conversation is usually enough, and departures are guided more by light and tide than by strict scheduling. Once aboard, the dhow moves quietly through the channels as the sky begins to change colour. On request, captains may provide simple Swahili snacks such as samosas, served without ceremony. Guests are welcome to bring their own drinks, typically kept in a cooler box on deck. The experience itself is unstructured. There is little to do beyond sitting back, stretching out, and watching the shoreline slide past. Water moves through the mangrove roots. The sail shifts gently overhead. At low tide, the dhow may pause near open water, allowing confident swimmers to slip into the sea while the boat stays close by. Nothing is staged. Nothing is rushed. For those marking a birthday, anniversary, or proposal, a modest addition can be arranged in advance. A short message is tied to the dhow’s sail using cloth and revealed as the sail is raised, briefly carried by the wind before settling into view. Flowers and light celebratory snacks are included. The gesture is simple, visible across the water, and easily skipped by those who prefer an unadorned sail. The sailcloth message add-on costs approximately KSh 3,000. Shared sunset dhows are typically priced at KSh 2,500 per person. Private dhows for up to four guests cost approximately KSh 12,000 for residents and KSh 15,000 for non-residents, with additional guests charged at KSh 2,000 each. Snacks are included on private sails. The sailcloth message add-on costs approximately KSh 3,000. Most departures leave Lamu Town around 4:30 pm and Shela closer to 5:00 pm, depending on the tide and seasonal light. July to October and January to February offer the most reliable weather. March and April are quieter and better suited to travellers comfortable with occasional rain. It is worth remembering that Lamu is a conservative Muslim community. Modest dress is expected when moving through town and the surrounding villages. Swimwear is appropriate only at beaches, hotel pools, or out on the water. Courtesy here is quiet and mutual; observing first and following local cues goes a long way. Prices should always be agreed upon before departure. Special-occasion sails are best requested ahead of time, particularly on weekends and during high season, when availability narrows.

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Discovering Mombasa, Step by Step

Discovering Mombasa, Step by Step

Walking Mombasa isn’t about clocking kilometres. It’s about what the city gives you when you’re slow enough to be noticed. A quick “Mambo! Vipi?” from someone passing. A jogger’s nod. A smile that happens and is gone before you can hold it. Walking gives you what no vehicle can: the inconvenience of having to notice everything. On foot, you catch the real layers — salt in the air when the wind behaves, dust when it doesn’t, diesel from harbour-bound lorries, and the comfort of chapatis frying on roadside griddles. You also learn the practical things: which verge disappears without warning, where trucks throw grit, where the sun hits hardest. Schoolchildren in crisp uniforms grin and call out, “Habari ya walking!” Vendors shout prices. A mechanic laughs too loudly at a joke you didn’t hear. People look up, register you, and for a minute you’re part of the flow. Mombasa wakes slowly. In the earliest hours, the streets of Miritini  a mainland suburb at the city’s edge are still. By mid-morning, matatus roar past, stalls bloom with colour, and children hurry to school. For walkers, Miritini offers a rare vantage point. From here, the city opens in two directions: toward the dense, working pulse of Mombasa Island, or outward to the wide calm of the Dongo Kundu bypass. For local walkers like myself, Miritini is a practical starting point. Walking here shifts the focus from distance to awareness, allowing the city to reveal itself step by step. The Routes Route 1: Miritini to Makupa Bridge — Mombasa Island to MGR Railway StationDistance: 10–12 kmTime: 1.5–2.5 hoursCharacter: Energetic, immersive The RouteThe walk begins at the Miritini Catholic Church stage, heading toward the SGR access road before joining the old Mombasa Road. From here, the route runs straight through Mikindani, passing Doshi and continuing to Ufuta stage in Jomvu. It proceeds through Narcol and the Changamwe interchange, crosses the railway bridge near the Mitchell Cotts Container Terminal, and enters Mombasa Island via Makupa Bridge. At the roundabout, the road turns toward Kingorani and continues to the historic MGR Railway Station. What to ExpectThis is Mombasa’s working core. Shutters go up. Matatu crews call out destinations like it’s a performance. Port trucks keep coming, steady and loud. Schoolchildren cut through gaps you didn’t even know were there. It’s crowded and noisy, and that’s the point , it’s the city doing its day. Food & Chai Stops Around Mikindani junction, the route passes Mikindani Corner Café not fancy, but reliable, with a place to sit and collect yourself. Chai keeps moving, mandazi comes fresh, and the crowd is mostly commuters pausing before they get pulled back into the road. It feels normal in the best way. Further on, through Kwa Jomvu and Changamwe, the Swahili street kitchens take over. Viazi karai and bhajia come straight from smoking pans, and cold sodas get pulled from roadside coolers. It’s busy, smoky, and fast — people eat and move. It’s a good halfway pause before the heavier industrial stretch. Timing & SafetyBest walked between 5:00–9:30 AM or 4:30–6:00 PM. Traffic moves quickly. Walk deliberately, keep valuables discreet, and give the road your full attention. Getting BackFrom MGR Railway Station, take a Kenya Railways commuter train toward the SGR terminus or a matatu from Mwembe Tayari back to Miritini. Route 2 Miritini to Dongo Kundu Bypass — Mwache BridgeDistance: 5–6 kmTime: 1–1.5 hoursCharacter: Calm, expansive The RouteFrom Miritini, walk toward Yomoke Hotel along the Mombasa–Nairobi highway, then turn toward the Compact Freight Station to join the Dongo Kundu bypass. The road opens wide as it curves toward Mwache Bridge, with the Indian Ocean stretching alongside. What to ExpectSpace replaces congestion. The soundtrack thins to wind, waves, and footsteps. Fishermen pass with nets over their shoulders. Goatherds guide their animals along the verge. Cyclists and construction crews move steadily through the morning light. The air is cooler, the horizon wider. Food & Chai Stops Near Mwache Bridge, a cluster of small kiosks serves strong chai, fresh chapati, and eggs cooked to order. Nothing decorative, nothing staged — but after a long exposed stretch, it hits exactly right. Close by is Mwache Eco Restaurant, a recently opened floating, community-run space positioned for clear sunrise and sunset views. The menu is basic and prices are higher than nearby kiosks, but the setting is the draw. Around the SGR area, early vendors sell bananas, boiled eggs, peanuts, and bottled water—quick provisions aimed at walkers, cyclists, and commuters moving through before the heat sets in. Timing & SafetyWalk between 6:00–8:00 AM. Keep left, stay visible, avoid headphones. The walk ends at the new Mwache Bridge, where motorbikes are plentiful for the return. Walking these routes teaches you Mombasa’s everyday signals. Morning greetings come easily. Walkers and cyclists acknowledge each other with a nod. And the smells change as you move — chapati near the food spots, dust in the dry sections, salt air when the wind swings right, diesel whenever the port traffic takes over. Here, walking becomes less about exercise than about presence. You’re not passing through; you’re participating.  Do / avoid Do: start early; carry water and small cash for chai; wear shoes that forgive uneven ground; greet people — sasa or habari goes far.Avoid: midday sun; both earphones; isolated shortcuts. Whether you choose the hard-working road toward the island or the open calm of the bypass, walking Mombasa changes how the city meets you. A smile from a stranger. Prices shouted across a stall. Laughter from a workshop doorway. The city moving at the pace of your own steps. Walk different routes on different days. Stop for chai. Taste the street food. Let distance matter less than what you notice along the way.

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Diani Turtle Watch monitors checking a turtle nest site on Diani Beach, Kenya

The Quiet Work of Diani Turtle Watch

Before sunrise, the beach tells the truth. This is what the monitors see, and what visitors can do that actually helps. At 5:30 a.m. the beach is quiet in a way most visitors never catch. The tide is only just starting to pull back. The sand still shows last night’s mess. A dragged flip flop line. A bottle cap half buried. Yesterday’s footprints already softening at the edges. A few early walkers pass, but the people doing the most important work are looking down, scanning for tracks that did not come from humans. A turtle’s path is easy to miss if you do not know what you are looking for. A wide sweep from the water. Sand pushed up where flippers dug in. A rough patch where she paused long enough to try. Sometimes it is a successful nest. Sometimes she turns back without laying. Sometimes the nest is in the wrong place and will not survive unless somebody gets there early. That is where Diani Turtle Watch (DTW) comes in. DTW is a programme under Local Ocean Conservation, a Kenyan nonprofit organisation that began turtle conservation work in Watamu in 1997, and later established Diani Turtle Watch in 2012 to protect turtles along the Diani coastline. The programme operates from the Marine Education Centre at The Nomad Beach Resort. This is what conservation looks like on a busy tourist beach. Long walks. Early mornings. Difficult calls. A community learning how to share a coastline with creatures that have been returning here for generations. Quick facts (verified) Who: Diani Turtle Watch (DTW), under Local Ocean ConservationBase: Marine Education Centre at The Nomad Beach ResortSupport option: Adopt a NestAdopt a Nest contact: +254 758 961 322 In this guide Why sea turtles matter in Diani To most people, sea turtles are simply beautiful. Calm, ancient looking, harmless. But they also do real work in the ocean. Green turtles graze seagrass meadows. Those meadows are underwater nurseries for fish and important carbon sinks. When seagrass grows unchecked, it can start crowding out the balance other marine life depends on. Hawksbill turtles feed on sponges on coral reefs. That matters because sponges can spread aggressively, and without hawksbills they can overwhelm coral growth. When turtles thrive, reef and seagrass systems tend to do better too. That affects fish populations, the long term health of the coast, and the tourism that depends on a living ocean. Why this matters, in plain terms The Diani Turtle Watch Centre DTW’s hub sits along the South Coast at the Marine Centre at Nomad Beach Resort. The centre operates as a working base, part education space, part coordination point, part research and reporting hub. It is not polished in a museum way. It feels like a place where people actually work. What to expect: Once inside, visitors learn the basics that most beach conversations skip: This centre is where visitors become informed supporters, and where local beach operators, students, and community members connect to the work. Nesting seasons and turtle species in Diani DTW monitors approximately 30 km of coastline, from Kongo River to Funzi Island. Beaches differ. Some are busy and bright. Others, like Chale and Funzi, can be quiet enough that nests are sometimes left in place with no relocation. Three turtle species are recorded along the Diani coast: Nesting activity has continued consistently across recent seasons, including 2024, 2025, and 2026, as part of DTW’s ongoing monitoring and protection work along the South Coast. A single nest can hold 80 to 200 eggs. The eggs are buried like a sealed container under the sand and incubate for roughly 60 days. One detail people do not expect is that sand temperature influences sex. Cooler sands tend to produce more males. Warmer sands more females. That means climate and beach conditions do not just affect survival, they shape future populations. In calmer places like Chale and Funzi, some nests are left exactly where they are, with no relocation and no intervention, because conditions are still quiet enough to keep predators and people away. Inside the morning patrols DTW monitors patrol early because the beach tells the truth before it gets walked over. They look for: Their work includes: During peak periods, patrols can extend into the night. Slow, careful walks under starlight to protect nesting mothers and keep interference low. DTW also uses satellite tagging to track mothers across the region. Journeys can stretch between Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, and the Seychelles, before they return to lay again. The main threats facing sea turtles in Diani DTW deals with beauty and danger in the same frame. The main threats include: Some threats are dramatic. Most are slow and ordinary. That is what makes them dangerous. Adopt a Nest DTW runs a programme that gives people a simple, direct way to support the work: Adopt a Nest. Adoption options include: • KES 3,500 for Kenyan residents, supporting on the ground conservation work in Diani• USD 35 for non residents and international supporters, via Local Ocean Conservation Inclusions may vary depending on adoption method, and are kept intentionally broad. That money supports: • patrol equipment• monitors’ allowances• rescue operations• community education• nest relocation materials Adoption contact: +254 758 961 322 How visitors can help without getting in the way You do not need to be a scientist to support turtles. The most helpful behaviour is usually the simplest: Tourism and conservation do not have to be enemies here. In Diani, they can support each other, but only if visitors treat the beach like a living place, not just a backdrop. As sunset comes on, Diani slips back into its beach mood. Music from the bars. People rinsing off salt. The last kitesurfers packing up. It is easy to believe the ocean takes care of itself. But the next morning, monitors are back on the sand, checking tracks before the day erases them. Most visitors never see that part. If you do nothing else, keep your lights low at night

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SGR Stations from Nairobi to Mombasa

The 9 SGR Stations from Nairobi to Mombasa

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Safari Inn

Safari Inn

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Travel To Kenya In 2024: Visa Free! – Here’s What You Need!

Visit Kenya in 2024: Visa-Free! Here’s What You Need!

Kenya’s New Visa Rules Explained Following President William Ruto’s announcement that Kenya will eliminate visa requirements for visitors, a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system will be implemented to identify individuals entering Kenyan territory. 1. What is the Kenyan ETA System, and How Does It Assess Traveller Eligibility? The Kenyan ETA, a semi-automated platform, is crafted to evaluate the eligibility of travellers seeking entry into Kenya. While awaiting official communication regarding the system’s rollout, the government has delineated the essential steps for prospective visitors to secure the ETA. This process entails furnishing biographic details and responding to eligibility queries. 2. What Requirements Should Visitors Be Aware Of? A Detailed Look at ETA Application Necessities The government highlights that additional information, like financial assets and return flight details, may be necessary based on the visitor’s citizenship and country of residence. Furthermore, yellow fever certificates and other vaccination or test results might be required. For specific visit purposes: It’s noteworthy that all East African Community (EAC) partner states are exempt from the ETA requirement. To ensure timely authorization, visitors are encouraged to submit applications at least 3 days before travel, with the option to apply up to 3 months in advance. The government advises prompt application post-booking accommodations and transport tickets. An upcoming Kenya Travel Authorization mobile app, expected in January, will empower users to securely store profiles and travel documents for future use. 3. What’s the Application Process for ETA? A Step-by-Step Guide 4. Despite ETA, Do Visitors Still Need Visas? Despite the introduction of the ETA system, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority emphasizes that visitors will still require visas, with ETA issuance commencing on January 4. 5. Visa and ETA Fees: What Changes Are Effective from January 1, 2024? According to a November 2023 gazette notice, ETA charges will be $30 (approximately Ksh.4,500) from January 2024. The notice also details changes in visa fees, including Single Entry Visa at $100, Multiple Entry Visa at $500, 5-year Multiple Entry Visa at $160, and an extension of the visa after six months at $200. Sanctions for overstaying, Referral/Multiple Entry Visa processing fees, Transit Visa, and East African Tourism Visa fees have also been updated. These changes were intended to be effective from January 1, 2024. 6. Kenya Visa Eligibility: Do I Need a Visa?  Passport holders travelling to Kenya are classified into three categories: Visa category 1 In this category, nationals and individuals enjoy visa exemption for entry into Kenya. This privilege extends to countries with established agreements or exemptions, allowing their citizens and select individuals to enter Kenya without a visa. Notable countries in this category include the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei, Burundi, Cape Verde, Comoros, Congo {Brazzaville}, Congo {Democratic Rep}, Cyprus, Darussalam, Djibouti, Dominica, East Timor, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Guyana, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Kiribati, Laos, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia (For less than 30 days stay), Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Myanmar {Burma}, Namibia, Nauru, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa (For less than 30 days stay), South Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Nationals and Persons who do not require visas to enter Kenya. Visa Category 2 This category comprises nationals from specific countries who are required to apply for visas before entering Kenya. The application process involves the submission of necessary documentation and adherence to criteria set by Kenyan immigration authorities. Countries falling under this category include: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Antigua and Bermuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Rep, Chad, Chile, China {P.R}, China (Taiwan), Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland, France, Gabon, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong {SAR}, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland {Republic}, Israel, Italy, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kampuchea, Kazakhstan, Kirghizistan, Korea South, Kosovo, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Macau {SAR}, Madagascar, Malagasy, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar {Burma}, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pacific Isles, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, Russian Federation, Salvador, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Somalia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Stateless, Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vatican City, Venezuela, Vietnam, Western Sahara, Yugoslavia and former States of Yugoslavia. Nationals issued with visas on application. Processed within 48 hours. Visa Category 3  This category includes countries and individuals subject to a referral process, with additional scrutiny before being granted entry into Kenya. Countries in this category include: Iraq, Libya, Syria, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea North, Stateless individuals, Yemen 7. Key Points Regarding Your Visa to Kenya: What Every Traveller Should Know 8. Need Assistance? Contact Information for Visa Queries

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MODELS FROM MOMBASA

Top 10 models from Mombasa

Top 10 models from Mombasa making a big impact now The world of fashion is a thick, bulletproof bubble we get to live in. Well not until some few crooks here and there commit fashion crimes. They should be locked up in the Prison de la Mode (Not a real place) In a parallel universe, we should all press charges against these following people for being overall fashionable in and out of the runway. They have proven to be great in redefining the fashion industry in the region, with their androgynous looks and bold get ups. They have become role models , they have impeccable sense of style and most importantly, their unique walks have earned them great recognition and admiration. Here’s a rundown of the Top 10 Fashion Models from the Coastal region of Kenya. Lewinsky, standing at an impressive 5’9” and hailing from Kericho, has taken the Coast by storm with her glamour and eccentric taste. Her presence on showcases like PIFWA and The Regenerative Fashion Forum, featuring brands like KikoRomeo, and her appearances on the Swahili Fashion Week in Tanzania, attest to her influence. Beyond the runway, Lewinsky finds solace in the ‘Dare to be you’ ethos of the Fashion Industry. Tess’s defined features, captivating complexion, and undeniable charisma make her an absolute showstopper when she graces the runway. Her love for fashion and keen observation of creatives in the industry showcasing their talents on television sparked her interest and excitement. Tess envisioned herself as an integral part of this creative world, driven by a leap taken out of curiosity rather than faith, as she explains, “Some leaps are taken out of faith, some out of curiosity; mine was the latter.” An inspiration to many, Tess has seamlessly demonstrated her prowess in various aspects of her life. As one of the Miss World Kenya 2019 Finalists, she has left an indelible mark on the fashion scene. Her collaboration with multiple renowned brands and companies, including Vipingo Ridge, underscores her influence and the breadth of her impact. Tess Mumbi, the young and dynamic model, consistently leaves onlookers in awe with her commanding and fierce walk. Her distinctive features, including what some might describe as her intense expression, contribute to her unique allure. Taking a chance on modeling has proved to be a transformative decision for Tess, igniting her passion for the industry. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bella Hadid, Tess sees modeling as more than just a profession—it’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. According to her, modeling has played a pivotal role in boosting her confidence, fostering a strong sense of self-expression, and establishing connections with a diverse array of people and cultures. Beyond the glamorous façade, it has opened up avenues for both personal and professional growth. Breaking stereotypes, Julius Oromo proves that modelling is an all-inclusive field. With a jawline sharper than a kitchen knife, Julius’s passion for fashion and self-expression has propelled him into the industry. His fervent for fashion and self-expression propelled him deeper into the captivating world of modelling. Julius reflects on how modelling has been a positive influence, imparting invaluable lessons in confidence, self-expression, and the celebration of his unique identity. He comments, “It’s amazing how fashion and creativity can converge to birth something beautiful.” Modelling, according to him, provides a platform for everyone to showcase diverse styles and narrate stories through poses and expressions—an enjoyable form of art that he believes everyone should embrace. When it comes to stature, Samuel has undoubtedly mastered the art of making an entrance. Standing at an impressive 6’5”, he effortlessly towers over everything on international runways, commanding attention with his Avant Garde looks and distinctive style that set him apart from the rest. Samuel not only appreciates the artful representation of modeling but also enjoys conveying a visual narrative through his work. A passionate and positive-minded model, Samuel extends words of encouragement to his friends and acquaintances, fostering a supportive community within the fashion industry. His dedication has earned him a feature in an online publication of Vogue, a testament to the recognition of his efforts and a promising trajectory toward immense success in the world of fashion. With a deep admiration for Alton Mason, Samuel’s aspirations reach beyond the sky; he is not just reaching for the stars but already stands tall enough to touch outer space. Veronica’s beauty, from her infectious smile to her stunning skin tone, captivates admirers. Rising to fame through various pageants and coastal runways, she draws inspiration from the iconic Naomi Campbell. Modelling, according to Veronica, has been an educational journey, imparting valuable lessons in handling peer pressure, stress, and depression through collective support. Encountering numerous intelligent young girls in the industry, Veronica feels a sense of freedom to share insights on various matters. Modelling, she believes, fosters unity through a shared love for the craft. Besides her runway pursuits, Veronica indulges in her love for travel and photography, attracting photographers from different regions eager to collaborate. At the age of 11, Opal captivates audiences with her confidence, charisma, and beauty. She possesses all the qualities needed to make a mark in the fashion world. ‘I’m naturally drawn to fashion and enjoy dressing up, trying on different outfits, and being in front of the camera,’ she comments. Like everyone who has ventured onto the runway, Opal asserts that modelling enhances her confidence. The positive feedback and attention she receives from friends and family further fuel her passion. Faith Wairimu, has firmly rooted herself in the industry over the past few years. Her Instagram page showcases an impressive array of photos, capturing moments of her thriving journey. With grace and style, she has been making waves on the runways, recently securing bookings for shoots at Boxo Hotels in Diani. Faith’s portfolio includes collaborations with prominent brands like Lila Bare, Mariam Couture, Kikoromeo, and Katush Collections, demonstrating her versatility and appeal. Beyond the glamorous world of fashion, Faith pursues diverse interests. She has a keen fascination for learning

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kenya Wildlife Service Raises Park Entry Fees 2024

kenya Wildlife Service Raises Park Entry Fees 2024

Tourists Grapple with Increased Park Entry Fees Starting January 2024, explorers of Kenya’s national parks will encounter a significant surge in entrance fees, courtesy of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). The most notable increase affects Nairobi National Park, a favourite among locals and international tourists alike. However, the decision to triple entry fees has raised concerns among tourism industry representatives who fear potential business losses. Mohammed Hersi, Chairman of the Diani Hospitality Owners Association, expressed apprehension that the heightened park fees and the added complexity of on-site payments might discourage tour operators from promoting packages that include visits to national and marine parks. Hersi highlighted the risk of diverting tourists to neighboring competitors like Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Africa, where similar packages are available at more affordable rates. KWS defends the fee hike, citing a comprehensive analysis of feedback gathered during forums conducted between January 30 and February 23, 2023. The revised charges encompass camping, conference facilities, and vehicle entry across KWS’s extensive portfolio, which includes 25 terrestrial national parks, 29 terrestrial national reserves, four marine national parks, six marine national reserves, six national wildlife sanctuaries, and three captive wildlife management facilities. During the high season from July to March, East African Community (EAC) and resident adults will face a substantial fee increase, now set at Sh2,000 compared to the previous Sh430 for Nairobi National Park. International visitors during this period will incur charges of $50 (Sh7,167) for visitors from Africa and $100 (Sh14,335) for those from other international destinations. Even in the low season from April to June, fees for EAC and resident adults will remain at Sh2,000 for Nairobi National Park. However, international visitors will experience a noticeable increase, paying $20 (Sh2,867) for visitors from Africa and $100 (Sh14,335) for those from other international destinations. At premium facilities such as Amboseli and Lake Nakuru National Park, fees for EAC and resident adults will be Sh1,000 during the high season, with visitors from Africa and international destinations paying $50 (Sh7,167) and $100 (Sh14,335) respectively. During the low season, EAC and resident adults will be charged Sh800, while visitors from Africa and the rest of the world will pay $35 (Sh5,017) and $80 (Sh11,468) respectively. Comparatively, KWS previously charged Kenyan adults Sh430 and children Sh215 for park visits. Non-Kenyan adults paid $43 (Sh6,164), and children/students paid $22 (Sh3,153). In addition to the park fee adjustments, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) fare adjustment extends to all passengers using using other railway services.

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SGR Ticket Prices 2024

SGR Ticket Prices to Hike by 50%

Kenya Railways Announces 50% Fare Increase on SGR Ticket Prices in 2024: What You Need to Know Kenya Railways has recently disclosed a significant fare adjustment set to take effect from January 1, 2024, impacting passengers traveling on key routes, including the Nairobi to Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), the Nairobi commuter rail service, and the Kisumu and Nanyuki safari trains. Reasons for Fare Adjustment: The fare increase is a response to recent changes in the energy and petroleum sector, particularly the surge in fuel prices that has substantially affected the operational costs of Kenya Railways. As a necessary measure to offset these rising costs, passengers can expect adjustments in the fare structure starting from the specified date. Impact on SGR Routes: Starting January 1, 2024, passengers traveling from Nairobi to Mombasa via the SGR will experience a fare increase. Economy class fares will adjust from the current Ksh1,000 to Ksh1,500, while first-class fares will rise from Ksh3,000 to Ksh4,500. Advance Booking Changes: Passengers making advance bookings for the Madaraka Express passenger service will need to adhere to the new fare structure from Wednesday. Revised SGR Ticket Price for Various Routes: Nairobi-Suswa Route Adjusted Fares: Note: Children aged between three and 11, traveling with adults, will be charged half of the standard fare, while passengers above the age of 11 will pay the full fare.

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fireworks

Top 10 Places to Watch Fireworks in Diani

Top Places to Watch Fireworks in Diani for New Year’s Eve 2023 It’s that time of the year again – a time to party, reflect, set new goals, and above all, celebrate. New Year’s Eve is an exciting event, and there are so many things going on in Diani to help you bid farewell to the year in style. While staying indoors and watching the festivities on your TV is an option, why not step out and make the most of the celebrations? If you need fresh ideas or are unsure about the happenings in Diani, head over to our events page and discover something that excites you. From lively parties to elegant gatherings, there’s something for everyone to welcome the new year with enthusiasm. And of course, what’s New Year’s Eve without a dazzling display of fireworks? If you’re looking for the best spots to witness the sky light up, here’s a curated list of places in Diani that will be hosting spectacular fireworks displays. 1. Jacaranda Beach Hotel Situated about 5 kilometres from Carrefour Junction en route to Kongo Beach, Jacaranda Beach Hotel is a popular spot for witnessing fireworks. An admission fee of 2000 applies for walk-ins, redeemable for a meal or drinks. 2. Neptune Beach Hotels Located in Galu (Mwisho Wa Lami), approximately 8 kilometres from Carrefour Junction along Diani Beach Road, Neptune Beach Hotels boasts an expansive beach providing a perfect vantage point for New Year’s fireworks. Prior reservations are recommended for a seamless experience. 3. Swahili Beach Resort Around 500 meters from Carrefour Junction along Diani Beach Road, Swahili Beach Resort is recognized for its cleanliness and contemporary facilities. The resort’s location offers ideal vantage points for viewing fireworks with the illuminated ocean as a stunning backdrop. 4. Diamonds Leisure Lodge For those with a higher budget, Diamonds Leisure Lodge in Diani hosts a New Year’s Eve gala dinner featuring fireworks, dance shows, beach parties, live band music, and dinner. Festivities start at 7:00 PM and continue late into the night. 5. Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa Diani Reef offers a 5-star experience with fireworks and hosts the 2nd Passport Experience (PXP Festival), a multicultural music event from December 30th to January 1st. Tickets for this vibrant festival are available on their website. 6. Safari Beach Hotel Conveniently located approximately 5-6 kilometres from Carrefour junction along Diani Beach Road, Safari Beach Hotel not only hosts a spectacular fireworks show but also the Diani Luxe Experience, a three-day (from the 29th – 31st) event with diverse entertainment activities. Tickets for this grand event are available for purchase here. Pinewood Beach Resort. You can celebrate New Year’s at Pinewood Beach Resort with a spectacular Gala Dinner, a stunning fireworks display, live entertainment by Lenny’s Band, DJs, and a beachside Bonfire.  Other hotels hosting fireworks events include Baobab Beach Hotel and Eleven Pearl Boutique Hotel.  For those on a budget, a walk down the nearby beach guarantees a view of the fireworks. For those on the North Coast, don’t miss out – check out our North Coast guide on the top places to watch fireworks in Mombasa here

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