Historically, Malindi was one of the landing points of Vasco da Gama, who had a pillar crowned by a cross erected, the Vasco da Gama Pilar, located at the far end of the coastline and currently a symbol of the Kenyan city.
The journey to discover Malindi can begin with the historic center (around the bus station) and the Arab citadel of Shela, characterized by alleys and small streets, houses with courtyards, and mosques.
Walking along the Vasco da Gama Pilar, one can admire the so-called silversand, the beach with wonderful silvery sand on which there are seaside resorts, tourist villages, hotels, and restaurants. Continuing southward, you find yourself in the residential district of Casuarina, characterized by lush vegetation: coral soil, green palms, large baobabs, and blooming bougainvillea.
In the city of Malindi, there is a harmonious coexistence of two different architectural styles: one Arab, the other dating back to the Portuguese domination. Equally balanced and peaceful is the coexistence between Christianity and Islam. In Malindi, in fact, there are numerous mosques as well as various Christian Catholic and Protestant churches. The tourist appeal of Malindi mainly lies in its postcard-perfect beach, with green palms and white sand, and the fantastic ocean where one can enjoy scuba diving to explore the coral reef.
However, the truly sensational spectacle can be admired in the Malindi Marine Park: marvelous crystal-clear waters with amazing shades ranging from blue to turquoise and a colorful population. Not to be missed is the so-called blue safari which offers tourists a truly extraordinary view of the park’s fish and coral world, along with a delightful lobster barbecue to enjoy on site.
If interested in the history of Malindi, one can visit the city museum any day, located in an ancient Portuguese building on Vasco da Gama Road. If you’re instead looking for the more commercial side of Malindi, you can go to the northern part of the city where there are banks, shopping centers, supermarkets, shops, nightclubs, bars, pizzerias, and a casino.
The spectacle continues just a few kilometers from Malindi in the beautiful Mida Creek lagoon, in the sensational canyon of Marafa (called Hell’s Kitchen or, by locals, Nyari), and in the mysterious lost city of Gedi.
