Fly to Malindi, Kenya

• Time zone: UTC / GMT +3
• Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KSh, often written as =/)
• Driving: left-hand side of the road
• Power Outlets: 220V-240V 50Hz. Plug types are ‘Type D & G (British)’
• Closest airport: Malindi Airport (MYD)
• Local Tribes: the Swahili tribe can be found on the coast of East Africa, including in Malindi. They are traders and have enjoyed a lot of contact with other tribes and nations. It is their language that is spoken as one of two official languages in Kenya.

Kenya lies on the equator and Malindi’s coastal climate is tropical with warm weather year-round. Daytime average temperatures range between 24.6°C / 76.3°F and 28°C / 82.4°F, with cooler nights.

Malindi can be visited at any time of the year, but be aware of Kenya’s seasons. It has a dry season from June to October, a wet season called ‘short rains’ in November and December, another dry spell in January and February, followed by the ‘long rains’ in March, April, and May.

If you are visiting Malindi to go diving, avoid the months of March to June as visibility is severely reduced by the silt coming out of the Galana River.

Malindi is the perfect tourist destination, offering everything you would expect from a beach location and more. You can, of course, unwind on Malindi’s beautiful white beaches, go snorkelling or diving in one of two marine parks, have a go at catching your own dinner with a variety of fishing trips possible, deep sea fishing being one of the popular options.

All other watersports can be done in Malindi too, with kite surfing being another popular activity. It is also possible to relax and chill on a traditional dhow and go sailing on the turquoise waters, with some snorkelling stops and local coconut refreshments.

In town, you can check out the Vasco da Gama pillar which dates back to 1498 or simply wander through town admiring the Swahili architecture. Near Malindi, you can also find the Gedi Ruins, the remains of a Swahili town which are worth exploring.

Malindi has a variety of cuisines on offer. Located on the coast of Kenya, make sure you try some of the best seafood you will ever have.

Try some of the tasty pilau (curried rice with meat), birianis or a delicious coconut fish. And of course, Kenya’s staple Ugali (made with maize and water) can be found here too. Another typical Kenyan dish is Sukuma Wiki (kale stew) or Githeri (maize and corn).

Meat lovers should not miss out on Nyama Choma, literally grilled meat, usually goat.

Malindi offers a range of food, from restaurants to street food for all budgets.

The majority of people in Malindi are Muslims. Whilst not extreme at all, there are cultural do’s and don’ts. Shoes should always be removed when entering a home and place of worship. Dress modestly in public and refrain from public displays of affection.

When photographing people, always ask permission first and agree on payment if required.

Malindi has facilities for all budgets. This is true for accommodation, transport, food and excursions. Local goods are cheap; imported is expensive.

On the markets, bargain for everything – you will pay more than you should if you do not.

This is what you can expect to pay in Kenya for:

• Domestic beer (0.5-litre bottle) in a supermarket – 175KSh
• Imported beer in a supermarket (0.33-litre bottle) – 223KSh
• Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) – 200Ksh
• A bottle of coca cola / pepsi (0.33-litre bottle) – 52KSh
• A small bottle of water (0.33-litre bottle) – 44KSh