The Wasini Island & Kisite Marine Park dhow trip is a full-day excursion from Diani. The package costs KES 15,500 for Kenya citizens and residents or USD 120 for international travellers. The price includes snorkelling, a Swahili seafood lunch, and dolphin watching, dependent on sea conditions. Diani Excursions Office provides this tour at a fixed, listed price to avoid beach haggling and ensures all operations comply with local marine park regulations.
What Marine Life and Cultural Experiences Does the Wasini Kisite Tour Offer?
This full-day tour combines two key South Coast locations. The trip begins with a traditional dhow sailing to Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, a protected area with clear water and healthy coral reefs. The dhow journey provides an open-ocean perspective of the coastline.
In Kisite Marine Park, you can snorkel among schools of fish, see moray eels, and potentially spot sea turtles or rays. The park is a common habitat for dolphins, though sightings depend entirely on daily sea conditions and the dolphins' movements.
After the marine park, the dhow sails to Wasini Island. The focus shifts from marine life to coastal culture with a visit to a local village. The day includes a fresh, authentic Swahili seafood lunch, offering insight into the community's way of life.
What is the Wasini Island & Kisite Marine Park Itinerary?
The day's schedule provides a balance of sea activity and island relaxation, organised as a full-day trip from the Diani area. Transport logistics and timings are structured for a timely return.
Morning Departure from Diani
The day starts with an early morning departure from your Diani or Ukunda accommodation. If you book the optional transport, a vehicle will collect you. The drive south to the fishing village of Shimoni takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Dhow Sailing and Snorkelling in Kisite
At the Shimoni jetty, you will board a traditional dhow with an experienced local crew. The dhow sails into Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, where the first opportunity to see dolphins occurs. The main activity is a guided snorkelling session over coral gardens, which lasts for one to two hours based on tides. All necessary snorkelling equipment is provided.
Wasini Island Lunch and Return
The dhow then sails to Wasini Island. You will disembark for a prepared Swahili lunch, which typically includes seafood, coconut rice, and local sauces. After lunch, there is time for a short walk through the village before boarding the dhow for the return sail to Shimoni. You will arrive back in the Diani and Ukunda area in the late afternoon.
What Is Included in the Diani Wasini & Kisite Package?
The package price covers all core activities and logistics from the Shimoni departure point. This structure ensures transparent pricing for the tour itself.
- Return dhow transport from Shimoni to Kisite Marine Park and Wasini Island.
- An experienced local guide and dhow crew for the duration of the trip.
- Use of snorkelling equipment, including mask, snorkel, and fins.
- A freshly prepared Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini Island (alternative options available upon prior request).
- Drinking water provided on board the dhow.
Are There Additional Costs for the Wasini & Kisite Excursion?
The package cost does not cover mandatory government park fees or optional services. Guests should budget for these items separately.
- Kisite Marine Park Entry Fees: The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) mandates these fees, which are paid directly at the park gate in Shimoni. Fees differ for citizens, residents, and non-residents and are subject to change by KWS.
- Hotel Transport: Pickup and drop-off from a Diani or Ukunda hotel is an optional extra. The service coordinates transport from your accommodation to Shimoni and back.
- Personal Expenses: Gratuities for the guide and crew, drinks other than water during lunch, and any souvenirs from Wasini Island are not included.
How Much Does the Wasini Island & Kisite Tour Cost?
Diani Excursions Office offers fixed, transparent prices for the Wasini and Kisite tour. The two price points accommodate different residency statuses. The KES and USD prices are separate payment tiers and not direct currency conversions.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| International Travellers | USD 120 per person |
| Kenya Citizens / Residents | KES 15,500 per person |
| Optional Diani Hotel Pickup | KES 6,500 per vehicle (up to 6 guests) |
What to Bring for Your Kisite Marine Park Trip?
Packing appropriate items ensures comfort and safety during the full-day sea excursion. The sun on the open water requires adequate protection.
- Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are recommended.
- Swimwear and Towel: Wear swimwear under your clothes and bring a towel.
- Camera: A waterproof camera or phone case is suitable for underwater photography.
- Identification: A copy of your passport or Kenyan ID/residency permit is required for KWS park fee payment.
- Cash: Bring KES or USD for KWS park fees, tips, and personal purchases.
- Light Clothing: A light cover-up is useful on the dhow and on Wasini Island.
Why Book Your Wasini & Kisite Tour with Diani Excursions?
Booking with Diani Excursions Office provides a listed-price tour, which removes the need for beach-side haggling. The clear booking process confirms your tour cost upfront.
As a licensed Diani operator, we use experienced local crews who follow established safety protocols. Our operations comply with all Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) regulations for visiting the protected marine park. This process supports sustainable tourism practices that respect the local community and environment.
How to Book This Activity
You can secure your spot on the Wasini and Kisite full-day tour through our online booking portal. First, select your preferred date for the excursion. We recommend booking several days in advance, particularly during peak seasons, to confirm availability.
Next, specify the number of guests and their correct residency status (Kenya Citizen/Resident or International Traveller) to apply the correct pricing. Select the optional hotel transport if required. After payment confirmation, you will receive a booking confirmation with all necessary details, including pickup times if you have arranged transport. Please inform us of any specific dietary needs at the time of booking.