Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for your trip to Wasini Island with practical advice on transport, weather, and navigating the car-free paths.
Getting there
You must take a boat from the mainland town of Shimoni to reach the island.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Booked day trip from Diani Beach or Mombasa | Full day | $50 - $130 | The most common way to visit. Includes hotel pickup, drive to Shimoni, dhow cruise, marine park fees, and a seafood lunch. |
| Bus: Matatu (shared minibus) from Mombasa or Ukunda to Shimoni | 2-3 hours | ~300 KES | Budget-friendly option for independent travelers, requiring you to negotiate and hire a boat upon arrival in Shimoni. |
| Boat: Traditional dhow or motorized boat from Shimoni jetty to Wasini Island | 15-30 minutes | Varies / included in tours | The only way to reach the island from the mainland. |
| Walk: Walking the island's sand and coral paths | Varies | Free | There are no roads or cars on the island, so all exploration is done on foot. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The island is open year-round, but weather impacts the boat crossing and snorkeling conditions. December to March and June to October are the best periods, offering the calmest seas and clearest water. For more details, see our Best time guide.
What to bring
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The island runs completely off a solar-hybrid mini-grid installed in late 2023.
Electricity is available, but the atmosphere remains thoroughly traditional.
How the day runs
Most visitors spend a full day exploring the marine park and the island.
A typical timeline for a booked day trip from Diani Beach.
- Hotel Pickup
Depart from your hotel in Diani Beach.
- Arrive in Shimoni
Transfer to a traditional dhow or motorized boat.
- Snorkeling
Explore the reefs of Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.
- Swahili Lunch
Enjoy a seafood meal at a restaurant on Wasini Island.
- Village Walk
Tour the traditional Wasini Village and fossilized coral gardens.
- Return Journey
Head back to the mainland and drive to your hotel.
Practical Advice
When packing for Wasini, bring a swimsuit to wear under your clothes for snorkeling, plus reef-safe sunscreen. You will also need modest clothing to cover your shoulders and knees when walking through the Islamic villages on the island. Read Packing and Dress for a full packing list.
Remember that there are no cars or paved roads. You will be walking on sand and sharp fossilized coral paths. Sturdy sandals or comfortable walking shoes are required.
Easiest way to do it
Kisite Mpunguti Dolphin Safari & Snorkeling with Wasini Island
8 h 4.9 (86)
- Shimoni slave caves
- National park fees
- Professional local marine guides and snorkeling assistance
- Pick up and drop off from your Mombasa, Diani beach or Tiwi hotel
From$120per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you stay overnight on Wasini Island?
Yes, there are a few basic guesthouses on the island for overnight stays, though most travelers opt to visit on a day trip from Diani or Mombasa.
How far is Wasini Island from Mombasa?
Wasini Island is located approximately 75 kilometers south of Mombasa. Driving from Mombasa to the Shimoni jetty takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic and the Likoni ferry crossing.
Are there cars on Wasini Island?
No, there are no cars or roads on the island. All transportation is strictly on foot along unpaved paths.