How to get to Watamu?
Watamu, located on Kenya's North Coast, is not the easiest spot to get to, especially if you've never been there before. There are several methods to get there at varied rates.
By Air
Because Watamu does not have its own airport, the nearest options are Malindi Airport (20 minutes away) and Mombasa Airport (2.5 hours away).
Flights to Malindi:
- From Nairobi: A quick 45-minute flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi is available through Kenya Airways, Jambojet, AirKenya, and Fly 540.
- From Mombasa: Alternatively, you may fly into Moi International Airport in Mombasa and then drive down the coast. Jambojet and Kenya Airways both operate short 20-minute flights between Mombasa and Malindi.
Taxi from Malindi Airport to Watamu:
A taxi travel from Malindi Airport to Watamu takes around 30 minutes and costs between 2000 and 3000 Kenyan Shillings.
Taxi from Mombasa Airport to Watamu:
A taxi travel from Malindi Airport to Watamu takes around 2.5 hours and costs between 7000 and 9000 Kenyan Shillings.
By Road
For those who enjoy scenic road trips, driving to Watamu is an exciting option.
From Nairobi or Mombasa:
- By Bus: Several bus companies operate trips from Nairobi and Mombasa to Watamu. The trek is long, but it provides a unique perspective on Kenya's terrain.
- By Train: Take the Madaraka Express from Nairobi to Mombasa. From Mombasa, take a cab or a matatu (shared transport) to Watamu.
Taxi from Mombasa to Watamu:
A taxi journey from Mombasa to Watamu costs between 4000 and 8000 Kenyan shillings, depending on the company.