Kilifi is a coastal town in Kenya located in Kilifi County, part of the Coastal Kenya region.
This small town, not very popular with tourists, is beautifully situated on a large bay that extends deep into the land, with a long sandy beach by the sea. There are a number of hotels, beach bars and a marina. They make it a destination for people who want to experience more of typical Africa than is possible in the tourist hotspots.
Understand
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Kilifi is located approximately 56 kilometres (35 mi) northeast of Mombasa and 120 kilometres (75 mi) southeast of Malindi. Kilifi is the capital of Kilifi County with a population of around 31,000 and is located on the north side of Kilifi Bay, which stretches around 7 kilometres inland. There are several banks, a post office, a petrol station, markets, restaurants and shopping facilities here. The special location on the bay and on a long sandy beach by the sea make Kilifi a potential tourist resort, which includes a number of hotels and a marina. The town has the Kilifi District Hospital, several schools and the Pwani University College. Although the town has a beautiful beach, it is hardly developed for tourism and is popular with young backpackers as an "off the beaten track" destination.
Kilifi is a cosmopolitan place with mixed ethnic groups. The majority of the population (around 80 %) comes from the Mijikenda groups (mainly Giriama and Chonyi). Other groups are the Swahili-Arab descendants, Barawas, Bajunis, Somalis and other groups from the interior. There are a handful of Indians and Europeans, mainly British, Germans and Italians. The town is known for its traditional Swahili culture and cuisine, as well as its vibrant music and dance scene.
The rental price level for long-term guests is relatively low, and healthcare and beach facilities are available. These are good conditions for guests who want to escape the winter in Europe.
Get in
[edit]There are several ways to get to Kilifi, depending on your starting point and budget. Some of the most common options:
- By air: The closest major airport to Kilifi is Moi International Airport in Mombasa, which is approximately 50 kilometres (31 mi) away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a matatu (minibus) to Kilifi.
- By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Nairobi, Mombasa and Kilifi, including Modern Coast, Coast Bus and Mash East Africa. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- By train: The Madaraka Express train operates between Nairobi and Mombasa, with a stop in Mariakani, which is approximately 30 kilometres (19 mi) from Kilifi. From Mariakani, you can hire a taxi or take a matatu to Kilifi.
- By private car: If you have access to a car, you can drive to Kilifi from Nairobi or Mombasa. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours from Nairobi and 1-2 hours from Mombasa, depending on traffic and road conditions.
It's important to note that road conditions in Kenya can be challenging, especially during the rainy season, so it's advisable to exercise caution and be prepared for potential delays or detours.
Get around
[edit]The town center is small and easily walkable. For trips outside the center or in the immediate vicinity, there are several options:
- Matatus: Matatus are minibus taxis that are the most common form of public transportation in Kenya. They operate on fixed routes, and you can flag one down on the street or at a designated matatu stop. Matatus are usually inexpensive and can take you to various destinations within and around Kilifi.
- Tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled motorized rickshaws that are a popular mode of transportation in many parts of Kenya, including Kilifi. They are ideal for short trips around town and can be hired for a negotiated fare.
- Boda-bodas: Boda-bodas are motorcycle taxis that are another common form of transportation. They are best for short trips and can be hired for a negotiated fare.
See
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- 1 Kilifi Creek. Kilifi Creek is a picturesque inlet that is ideal for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. You can take a dhow ride to explore the creek and enjoy the scenic views.
- 2 Mnarani Ruins. The Mnarani Ruins are ancient ruins of a Swahili town dating back to the 14th century. They include the remains of a mosque, tombs, and houses, and provide a glimpse into the area's rich history and culture.
Outside of the town:
- 3 Chasimba Caves (Panga ya Saidi). The cave is rich in archaeological finds from the Middle Stone Age, the Late Stone Age and the Iron Age. The excavated artefacts bear witness to an unusually long period of human activity, from around 78,000 years ago to around 400 years ago. The interesting cave can be visited, preferably with a guide from the nearby village.
- 4 Vuma Cliffs. Steep coast with a beautiful view of the wild sea beating against the cliffs. Most impressive at high tide. Good footwear is required as the coral rock is very sharp-edged.
- 5 African Barn Owl Cave. In this wild place, 12 metres underground, you can visit a beautiful karst cave with stalactites and stalagmites and observe the owls that live there. There are a few small cafés where you can relax in the shade and have something to eat. Guides are on hand to show you around the cave. As the cave is not signposted, you have to ask around in the neighbourhood for the exact location of the cave. The African barn owl (Tito alba affinis), a rare bird that lives in the deep cave of Kikambala, feeds mainly on small rodents (rats), snakes, bats, lizards and insects, but also utilises other locally abundant sources of food.
Do
[edit]- Water sports: Kilifi is a great destination for water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can rent equipment from local operators or take lessons if you're a beginner.
- Boat tours: You can take a boat tour of Kilifi Creek or the nearby Mida Creek to explore the mangrove forests and spot a variety of bird and marine life.
- Beach activities: Kilifi has several beautiful beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. You can also take a sunset cruise along the coast.
- Cultural experiences: Kilifi has a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience it through traditional music and dance performances, visiting local markets, and interacting with the friendly locals.
- Wildlife and nature tours: You can take a safari to the nearby Tsavo East National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife such as elephants, lions, and buffalo. Or visit the Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve to spot rare bird species and other wildlife.
- 1 Kilifi Beach. Kilifi has a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for about 4 km. Has some small restaurants.
- 2 Mazingira Park Beach. Small park with a beach on the creek. It's worth stopping by for a walk.
- 3 Summer Beach. It's a fun place to go with family or friends. It's clean and you can swim in the creek.
- 4 Kuruwitu Marine Sanctuary. Beautiful, community-run marine park. Some of the best snorkelling in the area.
Buy
[edit]- Handicrafts: You can find a variety of handmade products such as baskets, bags, and jewelry made from local materials like sisal, beads, and wood.
- Textiles: You can buy colorful kanga and kitenge fabrics, which are traditional fabrics used for clothing and home decor.
- Spices: Kilifi is located in the heart of the Kenyan coast, which is known for its spices. You can buy local spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
- Tea and coffee: Kenya is known for its high-quality tea and coffee, and you can buy locally grown and processed products from Kilifi and the surrounding areas.
- Beaded items: Beads are an important part of Kenyan culture, and you can find a variety of beaded products such as belts, bracelets, and necklaces in Kilifi.
- Local snacks: You can also sample and buy local snacks such as cassava chips, coconut candy and sugarcane juice, which are popular in the area.
- 1 Kilifi Complex. with a large Naivas supermarket and other shops.
Eat
[edit]Kilifi has a range of dining options, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Kenyan dishes. Here are some popular options:
- Seafood: Kilifi is located on the coast, so fresh seafood is a must-try. You can enjoy grilled fish, prawns, calamari and lobster at local restaurants such as Nautilus and Distant Relatives Ecolodge.
- Swahili cuisine: Swahili cuisine is a fusion of African, Indian, and Arabic influences and is characterized by spices, coconut milk and rice. You can try dishes such as pilau rice, biryani, and samosas at local restaurants such as Kilifi Bay Beach Resort and Mnarani Club.
- Street food: As a University town, Kilifi has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors selling snacks such as cassava chips, bhajias and chapati. You can find street food vendors around the town center and along Bofa Beach.
- International cuisine: If you're looking for international cuisine, there are options too.
- 1 Kilifi Boatyard. Nice simple meals with good views of the boats, gulf and bridge.
- 2 Nautilus Restaurant. Very nicely situated on and above the water.
- 3 Kilifi Village Dishes. A Simple busy restaurant for local native dishes.
- 4 Kilifi Member's Club. A popular restaurant in green surroundings.
- 5 Baharia seafoods and grill. This simple but tasty restaurant is located at the small harbor and fish market. You can take a sunset cruise on a sailing ship from here, which is highly recommended. Don't forget swimwear.
Drink
[edit]Local beers include Tusker and White Cap. Traditional Kenyan drinks are mnazi (palm wine) and chang'aa (a distilled spirit).
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Mnarani Beach Club.
- 2 Distant Relatives Ecolodge & Backpackers.
- 3 Kilifi Bay Beach Resort.
- 4 Baobab Sea Lodge.
Connect
[edit]As everywhere in Kenya, it is best to buy a SIM card from Safaricom to be mobile online everywhere. Otherwise, most hotels offer free wifi.