It is that time of the year again when everyone is scouting for the best holiday deals – and with the festive season right around the corner, it is very crucial to find the right destination for the season.

If you have never been to the South Coast of Kenya, Diani Beach should definitely be your first stop for a horde of reasons. Today we’re going to share some useful tips to help you get acquainted with the phenomenon that is Diani.

Travel Documents

For new visitors and especially foreigners, your traveling documents have to be in order and that includes your visa and passport. The immigration officials at the Kenyan airports are usually very friendly and willing to help whenever there is an issue. Having the documents ready not only saves you time but also improves your overall experience for your trip. For security reasons, your hotel might also ask for your identification which in this case is your passport.

If you opt to obtain your visa upon arrival at the airports or port expect a slight delay of between 15 and 20 minutes as the documents are processed. It is advisable to carry cash in dollars, Euro or pounds for fees payment. After the checks, you will most likely be headed for your hotel and most of these hotels in Diani offer airport pick up services. Confirm with your hotel if they provide these services while making your reservation.

Transport & Airport Transfers

If you are traveling to your hotel by cab (taxi), either provided by the hotel or just from the airport, expect a charge of between 25 – 40 USD (between 2500 and 4,000 Kenya shillings) which is an approximate cost. Confirm with the driver before leaving the airport. Local transport around Diani Beach is either by tuk-tuks, taxis or matatus with each being favorable in different conditions and circumstances.

Currencies

You might also want to change some of the currency you have to the local currencies as you’ll need it for quick purchases and services. Kenyan currency is available in 1000, 500, 200 and 100 shilling notes which are the most commonly used denominations.  Both Moi and Jomo Kenyatta Airports have foreign exchange bureaus. Exchange rates are displayed on prominent boards and you can be assured you will get current rates.

Weather

Once you get across to Diani Beach expect to experience warm tropical weather that is only interrupted by rains between April and May. Your holiday indulgences could start right away. The hotels by the beach are numerous offering different levels of hospitality, culinary delights, and activities to indulge in. You can quickly find the perfect hotels and villas on this platform based on reviews, price, and location.

Safety

In order to stay safe while in Diani, it is always advisable to always make sure you are in the company of somebody who knows the area well, and most hotels will be glad to recommend a local guide if need be. If you need to access a hospital, talk to your local guide or the hotel staff and they’ll be happy to help.  For security issues or concerns, you can reach out to Diani Police Station which is situated along Ukunda-Ramisi Rd in Diani.

Please remember to carry sun protection creams to avoid sunburns, insect repellants to guard against sandfly and mosquito bites and as a precautionary measure, don’t travel after dark without a local guide.

If you’ll be on vacation for a longer period of time, you might also want to consider getting a travel insurance package to cover you in case the unexpected happens like getting sick or injured on your trip, your luggage gets lost or need an emergency medical evacuation.

Beyond that, a repertoire of activities awaits you to commence your holiday in Diani. These include; water sports like kitesurfing, deep-sea fishing, golfing, safaris to game reserves and parks like the Maasai Mara among others

Your stay will be truly worth your last cent when you visit Diani Beach. 

KARIBU DIANI