Introduction

Malindi has remained an important Swahili settlement since the 14th century and once rivaled Mombasa for dominance in this part of East Africa. Malindi has traditionally been a friendly port city for foreign powers.

Malindi has something of a resort atmosphere, which is pleasantly mixed with the earthiness of an African center. Cotton and sisal production is still major earners, as is fishing. Malindi is well served with restaurants, hotels, cafes and a post office. With the coral reefs having been declared the Malindi Marine National Park, this is a great place for snorkeling and diving, as well as game fishing and surfing.

Today Malindi is in the midst of a tourist boom primarily due to its spectacular beaches. Although tourism is an important industry, Malindi enjoys a strong African center where commerce and business outside the tourist industry thrive. As a resort town, Malindi features the usual array of hotels, restaurants, and discos. The beaches are excellent (and relatively free from seaweed) and snorkeling opportunities are abundant.

Attractions in and around Malindi

Hotels in Malindi