Although Malindi is often considered a sleepy fishing village, there are plenty of fun things to do in the town. Let’s discuss these best places to visit in Malindi in detail.

Take a Walk in The Arabuke Sosoke

Imagine sitting in a quiet nature reserve surrounded by dozens of animals and birds. Well, this park might be your getaway from the hustle and bustle of the town. The park boasts various bird species, such as parrots and owls, some of which are only indigenous to the forest.


The forest is also home to scarce species of mammals like the Sosoke bushy-tailed mongoose, which you cannot find anywhere in the whole wide world. It makes Arabuko Sosoke one of the fun places to visit in Malindi.

Explore The Gede Ruins

Located just a few kilometres from Malindi town lies the ruins of Gede. One Sir first found the site. John Kirk, who was part of the British colonialists, The place is so unique in itself that since its discovery in 1884, excavations for the artefacts are still going on to date. Most of the findings reflect the local Swahili culture and heritage and have been set aside as historical monuments.


You should explore this place for yourself and learn more about its history. Did you know? The ruins were just part of a Swahili town that included structures like mosques, ordinary residences, administrative centres, and tombs.

Check out the Vasco Da Gama Pillar

It makes up for my favourite destination in all of Malindi! I know you are probably bored with historical sites by now, but you’ll love this last one. This Tower was built by the Portuguese 600 years ago. It has seen better days, as you can see. A Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, made it a sign of appreciation to the Sultan of Malindi for all the provisions he had provided for him and his entourage when he visited the region.


Why is the place so unique, then? Its location was just at the front door of Sultan’s palace. It gives you the fantastic opportunity to relive the moment again and be at the centre of power in the whole coastal region since the administration of the Sultan was felt throughout the entire coast region of Kenya.

Visit the Watamu Beach

Another incredible thing to do is to visit Watamu Beach. The beach is well-known for its beautiful white sand and clear turquoise waters. You can enjoy many activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, and kayaking.


There are also several restaurants and bars on the beach, making it the right place to relax and enjoy the stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun in the sun or a romantic sunset dinner, Watamu Beach is the perfect place.

Hike at The Marafa-Hells Kitchen

If you’re searching for activities in Malindi, visit the Marafa-Hells Kitchen. This unique attraction is unlike anything else in this Kenyan town. The Marafa-Hells Kitchen is a natural wonder created by a volcanic eruption millions and hundreds of years ago.

Today, it is an impressive site popular with tourists and locals alike. You can hike down into the crater or take a selfie within the vicinity. Either way, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.