Kiwayu Island
Kiwayu Island is arguably the most beautiful of all the islands along the Kenyan coast. It is also a renowned biodiversity hotspot in the greater Kiunga Marine National Reserve and a priority conservation site in the Western Indian Ocean, marine life is abundant and the area is home to sea turtles, dolphins, whales and the timid, endangered sea mammal, the dugong. The island is a major turtle nesting site. Leatherback and loggerhead turtles use the area as feeding grounds; green, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles use the area as both a feeding and nesting site. Shimo la Tewa, on the eastern side of the island, has a rich and diverse coral ecosystem. It has long empty beaches with exquisite snorkeling just meters from the shore. Kiwayu village lies on the southern end of the island, and Mokokoni village lies on the mainland, just across from the northern end of the island.
The confluence of two major ocean currents creates unique ecological conditions that nurture three marine habitats—mangroves, sea-grass beds, sand dunes and coral reefs.
The main economic activity is fishing, and there is one school, no clinic, and one well on the island. The main attraction for tourists on Kiwayu is the tidal pools and snorkeling/diving pools located on the eastern side of the island. It is one of the best snorkeling sites for visitors to the island.
The island is so quiet and peaceful, less crowded and a perfect place for the honeymooners and those seeking the beautiful ambiance away from the crowd. Get lost in this amazing secret island and enjoy the wonderful unspoiled beaches with great blue waters.
How to reach here.
The best way to get here is to charter a dhow from Lamu.
An a speedboat from Lamu takes approximately 2 hours, alternatively some visitors like to travel there by dhow, which can take between 1 and 2 days depending on the wind. If the wind is right, the sailing is comfortable and visitors have their own vessel for fishing and exploring while staying on the island.
There is an airstrip for private charters and at low tide the beach can be suitable for landing or take-off. In case you would like to go easily by air, all is possible to arrange by air. Contact us for more.