Malindi


 

On the coast of Kenya, 120 kilometers north of Mombasa, lies the unspoilt resort town of Malindi.
Thriving on a curious blend of ancient Arab and African cultures known as the Swahili culture, Malindi's origins can be traced back to the 13th century Indian Ocean trade. Malindi probably become well known when famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama made a landing there on his way to India. The narrow lanes and fine Swahili architecture of Malindi's old town present a marked contrast to the modern hotel facades and curio shops. It is a bustling, typically African town with its Swahili quarter and busy market and beaches extending to the north and south.

 
 

Malindi is also known for its superb uncrowded beaches, its azure blue sea which is ideal for surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing and boating. Within easy reach is the famous mystic island of Lamu, with it donkey caravans and fisherman's dhows as well as excursions to Kenya's world famous Game Parks and wild life sanctuaries.

The Woburn Residence Club is situated in five acres of landscaped tropical gardens, a few minutes drive north of Malindi town. A 10 minute walk takes you to a lovely uncluttered beach and sea in which surfing is possible at certain times of the year. Windsurfing, sailing, scuba diving and deep sea fishing are also practiced on nearby beaches.

 


The airport is a 10 minute drive away and whilst Malindi remains a blissfully unsophisticated and still a developing town, it retains much of its Swahili charm and Arabic influences. It offers a variety of hotels, restaurants, shops, banks, two casinos and a busy market.

There is much of interest in and around Malindi, internationally renowned for its big game fishing and its 19 beautiful marine parks. Nearby, horse-riding, sailing, wind-surfing, diving, snorkeling, golf and tennis are available.


Mambrui, a charming Islamic village with its huge white sand beach and dunes and excellent restaurant is a short drive away as are the fascinating ruins of the 'Lost City of Gedi' which the inhabitants inexplicably abandoned in the 17th or 18th centuries.

Watamu, a fishing and diving center with magnificent marine park and white sandy beach, is approximately 20 minutes drive away.



The following activities are available in and around Malindi and we shall be pleased to assist you where bookings are required :-

Tennis Courts - Malindi Country Club. Racket & ball hire at the club.

Beaches - the closest is about a ten minutes walk, un-commercialized with no sun beds or umbrellas. Deep sea fishing, hire of glass bottom boats, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing and diving are available at the south end of Malindi. There are a number of splendid long sandy beaches and coral reefs along the entire coast.

Walks - there are a number of guided walks available throught the old town or close by.

Golf - five minutes walk - Malindi Country Club.

Excursions, Road & Air Safaris - Kenya is world renowned for its wildlife and National Parks. The nearest safari park is Tsavo Safari National Park - one of the worlds largest and diverse. Please note, due to distances, it is advisable to stay at suitable accommodation in the park for a minimum of two nights.

Fishing - Malindi is world renowned for big game fishing, Ernest Hemingway was a regular visitor of Malindi.

Birdwatching - a bird sanctuary is situated near Malindi.

Marine parks - Kenya coast has the most stunning coral reef in the Indian Ocean.

Diving School - Lessons available on request.

Shops & Restaurants - It is a 2 minutes drive or 10 - 15 min. walk to Malindi shopping center where there are variety of restaurants, bars and shops. Italian, Indian and local restaurants available. Woburn Residence Club is licensed and a selection of beers, wines and spirits are available.

Casino - Roulette, Black Jack, Pontoon, etc., for those who wish to try their luck.