Watamu is a small, lovable coastal town with an old-character charm that is hard to miss or deny… ๐
Interesting Facts About Watamu
Located about 15 km South of Malindi, and 100km away from Mombasa, Watamu is said to have a population of a little under 2,000 people.
This pristine, scenic town is well-situated along the shores of the Indian Ocean.ย Watamu boasts some of Kenya’s finest, white-sandy beaches, surrounded by rich, lush vegetation and forests.
The atmosphere in Watamu is laid-back and relaxed, providing the excellent holiday getaway. If you are looking to getaway, there are a number of hotel options to choose from. You can read about my holiday experience here.
In the recent years, there has been an influx of Italians in the areas of Watamu and Malindi, many who own the major hotels and resorts there. However, the main inhabitants of Watamu are the Bajuni people. The Bajuni stem from intermarriages between the Giriama and Arab traders.
Being in close proximity with Malindi and on the Indian Ocean coastline, Watamu is perfect for adventure, coupled with history lessons.
I am excited to share my list of Top 7 Things to Do when you visit Watamu, in a 3-part series.
Watamu’s Top 7! Part 1: Old Is Gold!
Part 1 of this series is titled: ‘Old Is Gold‘, because the places featured have been around for centuries, and then some!
As Watamu is a small town, you’ll need to head to Malindi, a short drive away, to experience some of the places featured below.
Vasco Da Gama Pillar
When you hear the name Vasco Da Gama, does it transport you back to that History Class in Primary school? Well, rightly so… ๐
The Vasco Da Gama Pillar has been in place since the late 1400โs. It was erected by Vasco Da Gama, on his voyage to India, with a stopover at the Kenyan Coast.
This pillar has stood the test of time, and the ‘beatings’ of the ocean waters…
You will enjoy the great views of the ocean and small boats spread out on the waters.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: MARION MITHAMO
CURATED BY: WANJIKU THUO
TIP: You can choose to pay Kshs. 500.00ย for a guided tour. This amount will also cover a guided tour to the Portuguese Chapel, and entry to the Museum.
Malindi Museum
The Malindi Museum is run and maintained by the National Museums of Kenya. The ancient building is said to have first belonged to the Bohra people. It captures the essence of the Coastal people, and their culture.
If you enjoy history, you will likeย the pictures with small write-ups about the history of the place, and its people.
This makes for a good visit, particularly if you love museums and history.
Portuguese Chapel
This Old town Chapel has also stood the test of time, having been put up in the 1500โs. It is currently maintained by the National Museums of Kenya.
There is a plaque with the Chapel’s history at the gate.
Some reputable people were also buried in the compound’s graveyard, dating back to the 1800โs.
TIP:
- If you do not have your own means of transport, you can get around to all three places using a Tuk-tuk, or taxi.
- Look Out for Part 2 of the 3-Part Series on Watamu’s Top 7!
I would love to hear your comments in the section below. ๐ Remember Caring is Sharing! ๐ Don’t keep it to yourself… ๐ Share Away on the Social Buttons Down Below! ๐ ๐
Stay Inspired Always!
18 Comments
Tales of an Abandoned City: Gedi Ruins - Scrapbook Journeys
August 18, 2016 at 2:36 pm[…] As promised, here is Part 2 of Watamu’s Top 7 Things to Do! And Today we step back way, way in time to explore the Abandoned City of Gedi… In case you missed it… you can read Part One of the Series: ‘Old is Gold’ >> Here […]
Irene
August 15, 2016 at 4:20 pmWow Marion, great pics and history lesson. Better than sitting in class, why do they not do this in schools for some of us visual characters!!! Loved the tour on my computer via your eyes! Shall be sure to visit Watamu.
Scrapbook Journeys
August 18, 2016 at 5:57 pmHaha I agree…we should have more and more field visits, and pictorial classes ๐ I feel you completely ๐ I know the adventurer in you will love Watamu!
Irene
August 15, 2016 at 4:18 pmGreat pics and writting. Have just gone on tour on my computer! Thanks..
MS. mithamo
August 12, 2016 at 11:44 pmThe images and write up are making me so nostalgic.. Awesome memories of watamu looking forward to the full series.
Scrapbook Journeys
August 15, 2016 at 10:35 amMe too! Can’t help but miss Watamu…it is a special place ๐ Thanks hun ๐
Patricia
August 11, 2016 at 5:20 pmyeey memories memories I really miss Watamu has lots of history if only I was in primary school
Scrapbook Journeys
August 11, 2016 at 5:36 pmI totally feel you! ๐ I miss it, feels like it was just yesterday ๐ Haha I still remember us in Primary school though! ๐
Margaret Kiama
August 11, 2016 at 4:19 pmLovely, lovely just beautiful…
Scrapbook Journeys
August 11, 2016 at 5:35 pmWow thank you Margaret! ๐ ๐
lornah
August 11, 2016 at 3:54 pmaaaw you have just revived good memories. I was there last month … Watamu is simply epic, you forgot to mention Gede ruins ๐ hehehe for people who love stories, and marine park ๐ Good read!
Scrapbook Journeys
August 11, 2016 at 5:34 pmHi Lornah! Wow, nice to read it took you down memory lane! ๐ Hehe I certainly have the ruins in mind ๐ Thank you my dear!
Nesh Kanja
August 11, 2016 at 3:39 pmYeeeyyy,old is gold indeed.
happy first reader here, amazing beautiful places to visit. Wish we had come here during my history classes in school probably would be a historian by profession
Scrapbook Journeys
August 11, 2016 at 3:49 pmHey! Well done!! I agree! Haha Watamu is a treasure cove of history coming to life! Thanks for reading ๐
Wanjiku
August 11, 2016 at 3:31 pmOld is gold!!!! And you look lovely dear.
Thanks for the info and the share yo so caring
Scrapbook Journeys
August 11, 2016 at 3:47 pmThank You Sue for reading!! Hope you are planning a trip to Watamu and I can crash ๐
Nancy
August 11, 2016 at 3:02 pmGreat write up.
My family nd I will b making a trip to watamu soon nd I’m looking forward to read more on this ancient, quaint nd serene town.
Don’t delay.
Scrapbook Journeys
August 11, 2016 at 3:46 pmHi Nancy! Wow that’s exciting to read!! I will certainly not delay in sharing part 2 and 3 of this series… You’ve made an excellent choice in choosing Watamu for sure! ๐