AFTER MSAMBWENI

On the 26th, our trip will come to a close, and we will depart from Msambweni. At this point, you are free to return to Europe, explore more of Kenya, or continue your travels elsewhere in Africa. I’ve outlined a few options below, but please feel free to reach out with any questions during your planning—I’m more than happy to assist.

Close to Msambweni

  • Shimba Hills National Reserve: Explore this beautiful reserve with its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery
  • Tsavo East and West National Parks: Discover these iconic parks, featured in the Netflix documentary series Our Great National Parks, narrated by Obama, with a special episode on Tsavo East
  • Snorkeling or Diving in Kisite Mpunguti: Enjoy vibrant marine life and clear waters.
  • For additional tours and suggestions, please visit the Msambweni page.

Flight back to Nairobi via Ukunda

For your return flight to Nairobi via Ukunda, you can book through Jambojet or Kenya Airways. Ukunda Airport is a 30-minute drive from Msambweni; just let me know if you need me to arrange a driver for you.

Mombasa

Mombasa is a 3.5h drive from Msambweni but well worth a visit! I would describe it as a mix of Marrakech and Jaipur: It’s hot, it’s busy and it’s heavily influenced by the Swahili-Arabic and Indian cultures. The food here is exceptional.
I recommend spending no more than two days in Mombasa, as the historic old town is relatively small.
For your return journey, you can sometimes catch flights from Mombasa back to Europe. Alternatively, I highly recommend the Madaraka Express train to Nairobi. The train operates twice daily, taking about 6 hours and offering a scenic route through several national parks, where you’re almost guaranteed to spot giraffes, zebras, and elephants.

Up the coast

You can easily fly to Malindi or Lamu from either Ukunda or Mombasa—both are well worth a visit:

  • Lamu is a culturally rich Swahili town that has become a bit of a hotspot, known for its charming restaurants, boutique hotels, and the abundance of donkeys that roam the streets.
  • From Malindi Airport, a short taxi ride will take you to Watamu, a beach town with a strong Italian influence, where many locals speak Italian. Just north of Watamu is Jacaranda Beach, offering a more tranquil environment compared to the lively atmosphere of Watamu.

Back to Nairobi

In addition to taking the train via Mombasa, you can also fly directly back to Nairobi from Ukunda. From Nairobi, you have the option to either catch international flights or explore more of Kenya. Some great destinations include:

  • Ngong Hills
  • Nairobi National Park (though not ideal if you’re planning other safari trips)
  • Mount Suswa: Hike up this intriguing volcano
  • Limuru and Surrounding Tea Farms
  • Hell’s Gate National Park
  • Champagne Ridge
  • Lake Naivasha
  • Nakuru: Home to a lake famous for its thousands of flamingos
  • Mount Kenya: Enjoy hiking around this majestic peak
  • Masai Mara National Park: Highly recommended for an exceptional safari experience
  • Aberdare National Park: Known for its lush rainforest, unique wildlife, and dramatic landscapes
  • Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Located in Laikipia, this conservancy is home to the last two northern white rhinos in the world

In East Africa

As of July 2024, my travel experience is limited to Kenya, but here are some recommendations for neighboring destinations:

Tanzania

  • Zanzibar: An island with stunning beaches and rich cultural history (Marie has visited).
  • Mount Kilimanjaro: Africa’s highest peak, ideal for trekking and mountaineering.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

  • Lake Victoria: The largest lake in Africa, shared with Uganda and Tanzania.

Uganda

  • Kampala: The vibrant capital city.
  • Gorilla Trekking: An unforgettable experience in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Rwanda

  • Volcanoes National Park: Known for its mountain gorilla trekking experiences.

I would also recommend checking out timbuktu travel, they have great guides and a good mix of recommendations.