Wasini Island excursion from Diani: dolphins, dhow and seafood lunch
The Wasini excursion is the most popular boat trip on the Kenyan south coast: a full day from Diani, with a traditional sailing boat (dhow), dolphin watching in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park, snorkelling on the reef and a fish and crab lunch on Wasini Island. It lasts 7 to 9 hours depending on the operator. All prices below are bookable-online excursion rates seen in October 2026: they vary widely depending on what is included.
Highlights
Wasini Island
A small coral island a few minutes from Shimoni, covered with low cliffs and coastal forest; the Swahili village lives mainly from fishing and hosting excursions.
The coast and the coral gardens
A boardwalk on stilts crosses the coral gardens; it is best explored at low tide. The boardwalk entry fee is often paid separately from the package.
The dhow and the dolphins
The boat leaves Shimoni early in the morning in search of dolphins around the Kisite-Mpunguti park, before the snorkelling.
The seafood lunch
Crab, grilled fish and Swahili side dishes in a village restaurant; say when booking if you do not eat fish or have allergies.
The Shimoni caves
Some packages add a visit to the Shimoni caves, linked to the history of the slave trade; the entry fee is often extra.
Practical info
Tips
- The prices seen range from USD 68 for a small group with transfers, park fees, lunch and mask included, to about USD 116-130 for the most common packages (shared van, marine park ticket, shared boat, equipment, Swahili lunch) and USD 250 for a 12-hour version. Compare what is included: hotel transfer, KWS fee, lunch, drinks, boardwalk, caves. Tips and drinks are usually extra. Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and a light layer for the wind at sea; if you get seasick, take a tablet before leaving. For another marine excursion further north, see the Watamu marine park.
How to get there
Operators in Diani and Tiwi pick guests up at the hotel around 7:30-8 a.m. and bring them back around 5-5:30 p.m. The road to Shimoni takes about an hour. Book ahead in high season.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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