Malindi — 3-Day Guide | ThreeDayGuides

Malindi blends 500 years of Portuguese, Arab and Swahili history with pristine Indian Ocean beaches, world-class coral snorkelling and Italy's most unlikely African outpost.

Also explore Malindi for:

📋 General guide ⭐ Highlights

Old Town, Portuguese Pillar & Marine Park

Arabuko Sokoke Forest, Watamu & Gede Ruins

Dawn Dhow, Sabaki Flamingos & Swahili Cooking

📋 General 3-day guide ⭐ Highlights

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Language	Swahili and English; Italian widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency	Kenyan Shilling (KES); USD widely accepted at hotels and restaurants
Transport	Tuk-tuks and boda-bodas (motorbike taxis) within town; matatus to Watamu/Mombasa; car hire available
Best time	Jan–Mar and Jul–Oct for dry weather; Oct–Feb for whale shark season
Getting in	Malindi Airport has flights from Nairobi (45 min, Fly540/Air Kenya); bus from Mombasa 2.5 hrs
Tipping	10% at restaurants; KES 200–500 for guides; tip dhow captains after trips
Safety	Generally safe; secure valuables at beach; avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas
Budget tips	Eat at the fish market for fresh grilled catch under $5; book marine park trips directly with KWS rather than hotel tour desks