Malindi walking tour & city guide
A historic Swahili coast town.
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Malindi, on Kenya's north coast, is an old Swahili trading town where Vasco da Gama landed in 1498. Today it is known for beaches, a marine park and Italian influence.
History
The Vasco da Gama Pillar, erected by the Portuguese explorer, stands on a headland. The old town has Swahili houses and mosques.
The sea
Malindi Marine National Park protects coral gardens with colorful fish. Many Italians live here, and the town has Italian cafés and gelato.
Good to know
Malindi is about two hours north of Mombasa and has its own airport. The town has a mix of Swahili and Italian culture, with Italian restaurants and gelato shops. The marine park is best visited at low tide. Nearby, the Marafa Depression, also called Hell's Kitchen, is a canyon of colorful sandstone that glows at sunset. The town is quieter outside the December to March high season.
Top sights in Malindi
- 1
Vasco da Gama Pillar
A 15th-century pillar.
- 2
Malindi Marine National Park
Coral reefs.
- 3
Old town
Swahili houses.
- 4
Marafa Hell's Kitchen
A sandstone canyon.
- 5
Gede Ruins
A ruined Swahili town.
Food markets & where to eat in Malindi
Old town
Swahili street food.
Beach road
Restaurants.
Malindi market
Fruit and fish.
Food to try in Malindi
Biryani
Swahili-style.
Mahamri
Coconut doughnuts.
Gelato
A Malindi favorite.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Malindi
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in MalindiCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Malindi.
- eSIM for KenyaStay online from the moment you land.
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