Kenya

Diani

Exquisite Beachfront Luxury – Diani offers a breathtaking stretch of white sand beaches framed by the clear blue Indian Ocean. Renowned for its upscale resorts, vibrant coral reefs, and lush coastal forests, Diani is the epitome of an idyllic beach paradise, perfect for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

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Key Facts

Temperatures

Average temperatures ranging between 22°C (72°F) and 32°C (90°F)

Population

866,820 (Kwale County)

Currency

The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

Guides and stories

What you need to know

Getting to Diani

By Air: Ukunda Airport, handles charter and scheduled flights primarily from Nairobi and Mombasa.

By Road: Diani is easily accessible by road from Mombasa through the Likoni Ferry crossing, followed by a drive along the coastal road.

Tourist seasons

Peak Season: The best time to visit Diani is from July to October and from December to March when the weather is dry and sunny.

Off-Peak Season: The rainy seasons in April to June and November can see fewer tourists, offering quieter experiences and sometimes reduced rates at accommodations.

Key attractions

Diani Beach: Renowned for its white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest: This coastal forest offers guided cultural tours that explain the sacred nature of the site and its importance to the local Digo community.

Colobus Conservation: A center dedicated to the protection and study of the endangered Angolan colobus monkey, as well as other primate species.

Shimba Hills National Reserve: Nearby reserve known for its scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including elephants and the rare sable antelope.

Travel requirements

Kenya has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for foreign travelers, which replaced traditional visa requirements starting January 2024. Travelers must apply for the ETA online prior to their arrival in Kenya.

A Yellow Fever vaccination is required if traveling from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever.

Connectivity

Most resorts offer wireless internet connections, as do airports. For maximum connectivity throughout your trip, consider purchasing a local SIM card at the international airport upon arrival.

Safaricom offers the best coverage in Kenya, especially in national parks and rural areas.

Sun exposure

Sun protection and hydration are key. Being located on the equator means the sun is significantly harsher than in places like Europe.

Take extra care on safari and beach excursions.

Experiences

Frequently asked

What are some unique wildlife and nature experiences in Diani?

Colobus Conservation: Visit this sanctuary to learn about the conservation of the endangered Angolan colobus monkey and other primates.

Shimba Hills National Reserve: Take a day trip to this nearby reserve to see elephants, giraffes, and the rare sable antelope.

What adventure activities are available in Diani?

For adventure seekers, Diani offers several exciting activities:

Deep-Sea Fishing: Embark on a fishing expedition to catch marlin, sailfish, and other big game fish.

Skydiving: Experience the thrill of skydiving over the stunning coastline with Skydive Diani.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Kayaking: Explore the calm waters of the Indian Ocean and Diani Lagoon with paddleboarding and kayaking.

How much should I tip?

It's important to carry enough cash, as many lodges and camps do not have facilities for tipping with credit cards and might not have enough cash for change.

A common practice is to tip $10-$15 per guest, per day. This usually goes into a communal tip box and is shared among all the lodge or camp staff, including those working behind the scenes.

For individuals who guide you through your safari (guides and trackers), a typical tip is about $10-$20 per person, per day.

At restaurants, tipping about 10% of the bill is customary.

Always ensure that your tips are given as a token of appreciation for good service, rather than out of obligation​.

Can I fly my drone?

Drones are prohibited unless you have obtained a specific permit. Customs conducts scans of all bags upon arrival and will confiscate any drones, holding them until your departure day.

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