Travel - Fun Things to Do While in Malindi
I had been to Malindi only once before so when a friend asked me to tag along for a trip there, I was ecstatic. We stayed at Malindi Dream Garden, a dreamy two-year-old property with great Swahili architecture and big glass windows that give one the feeling of being outside. We would gallivant by the pool and later enjoy a session at Mvua Spa where water jets massage you. Malindi may seem small but it is the second largest coastal town after Mombasa. There are lots of activities that one can do to whirl away the time in between lounging on the beach. Here is what to do when down there:
Visit Malindi falconry
The falconry is located off Lamu Road. It is a zoo with a wealth of birds and reptiles. You can bird watch as you learn different bird species and their habits. There are crocodiles, terrapins, snakes, turtles and tortoises. You can feed bananas to the turtles or even get to wrap a non-poisonous snake around your neck a 'la Brittney Spears style.
Marafa and Mambrui dunes
This is a large expanse of white sand, and dunes so do not go there expecting too much. Go in the midafternoon, so the sun is not too hot. After the Mambrui dunes, visit Marafa Hell's Kitchen. Marafa is a beautiful sandstone gorge that is run by the local community. The gorge has magnificent red, white and crimson ridges that are made more magnificent by the setting sun. Get to learn about the myth, it is said a rich wasteful man got carried away by a river after God got angry with him for bathing in milk and not helping his poor neighbours. Remember to give the local guide a generous tip.
Gedi ruins
Gedi Ruins is under the management of the Kenya National Museums. Entrance is Sh100 if you want to see the Gedi ruins alone, and an extra Sh100 if you want to visit their snake park. There are monkeys that live in the small forest that is between the gate and where the ruins begin. Carry bananas for them. If you are brave enough, you can even allow them to hop on your shoulder. You can then proceed to learn the story behind the small coastal town called Gedi, how they lived with a large wall separating the haves and the have nots and their different social activities as gleaned from the ruins that are still standing more than two centuries later.
Cheshale beach
If you want to try out a different beach, you can drive on Lamu Road and branch out in Magarini in search of Cheshale Beach. The beach is secluded and a bit of a distance from the road. You can pay for lunch at the Cheshale hotel and proceed to enjoy an afternoon of playing on the secluded white sandy beach.
Historical architecture
Would it be a Malindi tour if you did not visit the Vasco da Gama pillar and the Portuguese church right next to it? The House of Columns is another must visit building. It is located behind Jamhuri street in Malindi town. Built in 1891, this house has stood the test of time, being so strong as to withstand a tsunami. It is now managed by the National Museum and is open for viewing from 8am to 6pm.
