In short
- Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees in the village.
- Pack a swimsuit to wear under your clothes for snorkeling.
- Bring sturdy sandals or walking shoes for sharp coral paths.
In this article
Wasini Island has a traditional Swahili culture and a strict dress code for its settlements. Your day trip will involve time on a boat, snorkeling, and walking through car-free villages. Packing the right items ensures you stay comfortable and respectful throughout the day.
What is the dress code for Wasini Island villages?
You must wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when exploring the island.
Wasini and Mkwiro are traditional Islamic fishing villages. A light cover-up, sarong, or long loose trousers work well over your swimwear. Avoid walking through the village in just a swimsuit or revealing clothes.
What should you wear for snorkeling in the marine park?
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes before boarding the boat.
There are limited changing facilities on the traditional dhows. Wearing your swimwear underneath makes it easy to get into the water at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. Bring a lightweight towel to dry off after the cruise.
What footwear is best for Wasini Island?
Wear comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals with a thick sole.
There are no roads or cars on the island. You will explore strictly on foot. The paths are made of fossilized coral and sand, which can be sharp and uneven. Flip-flops are not recommended.
What sun protection do you need?
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed sun hat.
The sun reflects strongly off the Indian Ocean during the 15-30 minute boat ride from Shimoni. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral ecosystems in the marine park. Regular sunscreens can damage the protected reefs.
Should you bring your own snorkel gear?
Full-day tour operators provide snorkeling equipment, but you can bring your own.
Most tour packages costing $50 to $130 include masks and fins. If you prefer using your personal gear, bring it along. A dry bag is also useful for protecting your valuables on the boat.
What else should I pack for the day trip?
Bring small cash in Kenyan Shillings (KES) and a waterproof camera.
- Cash: Needed for souvenirs, tipping, and the ~KES 200 boardwalk entry fee.
- Waterproof camera: Ideal for capturing marine life in the park.
- Dry bag: Keeps your phone and cash safe from splashes on the dhow.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to cover my head on Wasini Island?
No, you do not need to cover your head. You only need to ensure your shoulders and knees are covered when walking through the villages.
Can I wear a bikini on the boat?
Yes, you can wear standard swimwear on the dhow and while snorkeling in the marine park. Just ensure you cover up before stepping ashore.
Are there changing rooms on the island?
Facilities are basic. It is best to wear your swimsuit under your modest clothing from the start of your tour.
