Wasini Excursion: Dolphin Trip & Snorkel at Kisite Mpunguti

If you’re heading to Kenya and eager to enjoy an authentic marine adventure, the Wasini Excursion offers a well-rounded day packed with wildlife, culture, and delicious food. This guided trip from Mombasa takes you to the spectacular Kisite Marine Park and the serene Wasini Island, providing a chance to see dolphins up close, snorkel alongside colorful fish, and learn about local life.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the chance to spot playful dolphins leaping alongside your boat, the fresh seafood lunch with scenic views, and the opportunity to explore the Shimoni slave caves for a dose of history. That said, it’s not without some considerations — the early start might not be ideal for those who prefer sleeping in, and boat rides can be bumpy, especially if seas are choppy.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love marine life, cultural experiences, and seeking value-packed day trips. If you’re after a mix of adventure and authenticity, this trip ticks many boxes.

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Key Points

Wildlife encounters: Dolphin sightings and snorkeling with vibrant fish and turtles.
Cultural insights: Village walk at Wasini Island and optional visit to historical slave caves.
Delicious cuisine: Fresh seafood lunch prepared with local spices.
Early start: Pickup between 5:30 and 6:00 am, so be prepared for an early rise.
All-included value: Guide, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, and meals are covered.
Flexible options: Vegetarian and chicken options available at lunch, with optional extra tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Wasini Excursion

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Convenient and Scenic Transportation

The day begins early, with hotel pickups between 5:30 am and 6:00 am. This might seem early, but it ensures you beat the crowds and enjoy cooler morning weather. The drive from Mombasa to Shimoni is comfortable, offering glimpses of Kenya’s coastal landscape. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for a more personal experience, and the transport is arranged by Bundu Travels, known for reliable service.

Entry to Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park

Reaching the park around 8:30 am, you’ll start the process of ticketing at the Shimoni Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) station. The park itself is Kenya’s second most famous marine protected area, renowned for its abundant marine life. The boat ride to the park is often highlighted as a highlight—expect to see dolphins leaping alongside the boat, a spectacle that almost everyone finds thrilling. As some reviews note, “the dolphins were so playful, leaping right next to the boat—it was unforgettable.”

Snorkeling in Kisite Marine Park

Once at the park, snorkeling gear is provided, giving you the chance to explore underwater worlds teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and coral reefs. The water visibility is generally good, making it ideal for first-timers and seasoned snorkelers alike. Many reviewers mention how the vibrant marine life exceeded their expectations, with “fish darting all around” and “turtles lazily swimming by.”

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Scenic Voyage to Wasini Island

After the marine activities, the boat sails to Wasini Island, a tranquil spot where lush greenery and traditional village life await. The journey itself is relaxing, with scenic views perfect for photos. The boat ride, often described as smooth, lasts roughly an hour, but some reviews warn that seas can be a bit choppy—bring seasickness tablets if you’re prone to motion sickness.

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A Seafood Feast with a View

Lunchtime on Wasini Island is a real treat. The seafood is famously fresh, with a selection of local catches prepared using aromatic spices. The meal options are inclusive of a vegetarian or chicken alternative, catering to different dietary preferences. Many guests agree that “the seafood was outstanding—succulent, flavorful, and perfectly cooked with local spices.” The scenic setting enhances the culinary experience, making it a meal to remember.

Exploring Wasini Village and Optional Slave Caves

Post-lunch, you can take a village walk around Wasini Island, getting a glimpse of local life and interacting with warm residents. It’s a great chance to buy handmade crafts and learn about the island’s culture. For history buffs, an optional tour of the Shimoni slave caves offers a sobering look into the region’s past. Several reviewers point out that the caves are “fascinating and a bit eerie, a stark reminder of history,” and worth the visit if time allows.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The return trip departs in the late afternoon, aiming to arrive back at your Mombasa hotel around 5:00 pm. The overall day is well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. The experience provider, Bundu Travels, is praised for punctuality and professionalism, ensuring a smooth end to your coastal adventure.

Pricing and Value

At $93 per person, the tour offers good value considering the multiple activities included: guided boat ride, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, and a substantial seafood lunch. Additional costs like scuba diving or entrance fees for optional attractions (Mangrove Boardwalk and Slave Caves) are extra. For travelers seeking a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and cuisine, this price point is reasonable, especially given the comprehensive nature of the day.

What To Keep in Mind

The early start is necessary to maximize your day, but it might not suit everyone. Seas can be unpredictable, so pack seasickness remedies if you’re sensitive. Also, while the tour is suitable for most, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to boat movements. The tour is conducted in English, making communication straightforward.

Final Thoughts

The Wasini Excursion is a superb choice for travelers craving an active, culturally rich day with plenty of wildlife encounters. You’ll love the playful dolphins, vibrant snorkel experience, and the chance to enjoy fresh seafood in a picturesque setting. The optional visits to the slave caves add depth to the trip, turning it into an educational experience as well.

For those who appreciate authentic encounters, this tour offers a genuine taste of Kenya’s coastal treasures—beautiful marine environments, warm local communities, and historical sites. The early start might be a bit challenging, but it means you can pack a full day of adventure without feeling rushed.

If your ideal day involves marine life, culture, and delicious food, this excursion will deliver on all fronts. Just remember to bring your camera, sun protection, and a spirit ready for adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, you will be picked up from your Mombasa hotel between 5:30 am and 6:00 am, making this a hassle-free experience.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, a guide, snorkeling gear, and a seafood lunch with vegetarian and chicken options.

Are there any optional extras I should be aware of?
Yes, scuba diving is available at an additional cost of $60, payable in cash. Entrance fees to the Mangrove Boardwalk and Shimoni Slave Caves are not included.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, towel, sunscreen, swimwear, sunglasses, and sandals. A hat or cap is also recommended for sun protection.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While most travelers find it enjoyable, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems due to boat movements.

How long does the entire trip last?
From pickup to drop-off, expect the tour to last around 11 to 12 hours, ending around 5 pm back at your hotel.

Can I customize or extend the experience?
The tour includes a village walk and an optional cave tour, but other modifications would need to be arranged directly with Bundu Travels.

What is the best time of year to go?
While not specified, marine activities generally depend on sea conditions, so dry seasons are likely more favorable for calmer waters and better snorkeling.

Will I see dolphins?
Yes, dolphin sightings are common and often a highlight, with many guests describing the encounter as playful and unforgettable.

To sum it up, the Wasini Excursion offers a perfect blend of marine adventure, cultural exploration, and culinary delight. It’s suited for travelers who love wildlife, want to learn about local history, and enjoy fresh seafood in a scenic setting. While the early start might be a challenge, the rewarding experiences make it worth setting that alarm clock. If you’re after an authentically Kenyan coastal day with memorable moments, this trip is hard to beat.