As of January 1, 2024, Kenya has eliminated traditional visa requirements for all travelers, including those visiting Kwale County. Instead, visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival.

 eTA Requirements for Visiting Kwale County

To obtain an eTA for travel to Kwale County, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official eTA Portal: Go to etakenya.go.ke
2. Create an Account: Register as a new user.
3. Complete the Application: Provide personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
4. Upload Required Documents:
• A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity).
• A recent passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel booking or invitation letter).
• Return or onward travel ticket.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from endemic countries)
5. Pay the eTA Fee: The processing fee is approximately USD 32.50.
6. Await Approval: Processing typically takes 1–3 business days.
7. Receive eTA: Once approved, download and print your eTA.

Beach Activities

1. Diani Beach

• Sunbathing and swimming
• Jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing
• Beach volleyball and camel rides
• Romantic beach dinners or dhow cruises

2. Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

• Explore coral reefs at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park
• See dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life

3. Glass-Bottom Boat Rides

• Ideal for families and non-divers
• Great for reef viewing in shallow waters

Nature & Wildlife Experiences

4. Shimba Hills National Reserve

• Home to elephants, sable antelopes, leopards, and rich birdlife
• Visit the Sheldrick Falls for a guided hike and picnic
• Butterfly watching and scenic viewpoints

5. Colobus Conservation

• Learn about the endangered Angolan colobus monkey
• Educational forest walks and conservation tours

Water-Based Excursions

6. Wasini Island Tour

• Boat trips with dolphin spotting
• Explore Swahili villages and mangrove boardwalks
• Enjoy fresh seafood lunches on the island

7. Mangrove Canoe Tours (Ramisi or Gazi Bay)

• Paddle through quiet mangrove forests
• Bird watching and community eco-tourism

Cultural and Heritage Tourism

8. Kaya Forests (Sacred Mijikenda Sites)

• Explore UNESCO-listed sacred forests like Kaya Kinondo
• Guided tours to learn about Mijikenda traditions and spirituality

9. Local Villages and Markets

• Visit traditional Digo or Duruma villages
• Experience local crafts, music, and coastal cuisine

Adventure Activities

10. Skydiving in Diani

• One of the top-rated skydiving spots in Africa
• Scenic aerial views of the Indian Ocean and coral reefs

11. Quad Biking & Biking Trails

• Off-road adventures through forest paths, dunes, and villages

Wellness & Relaxation

12. Spa & Yoga Retreats

• Offered by many beach resorts along Diani
• Peaceful settings for relaxation, detox, and wellness

Fishing & Marine Safaris

13. Deep Sea Fishing

• Charter boats available for sport fishing (marlin, tuna, barracuda)
• Local guides for traditional fishing experiences

The best time to visit Kwale County is during the dry seasons, which typically fall between:

 January to March

• Weather: Warm, sunny, and dry—ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
• Best for: Snorkeling, diving in marine parks, visiting Diani Beach, and enjoying cultural festivals.
• Crowds: Moderate—this period is popular but not as crowded as the holiday season.

July to October

• Weather: Cool and dry, with little rainfall and comfortable temperatures.
• Best for: Game viewing in Shimba Hills, exploring nature trails, and water sports.
• Crowds: Popular with international tourists, especially during the European summer holidays.

Months to Avoid (if possible)

April to June – Long Rains

• Heaviest rainfall season.
• Roads in remote areas can become muddy or impassable.
• Outdoor activities may be limited.

November to December – Short Rains

• Light to moderate rains.
• Still possible to visit, but some outdoor activities may be disrupted.

Health Tips

1. Vaccinations & Health Precautions

• Yellow Fever: Required if coming from or transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country.
• Recommended Vaccinations:
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus and diphtheria
• Rabies (if planning extended outdoor activities or wildlife exposure)
• Malaria prophylaxis (Kwale is a malaria-risk area)

2. Mosquito Protection

• Use mosquito repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Sleep under treated mosquito nets.
• Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings and early mornings.
• Stay in accommodations with screens or air conditioning.

3. Food and Water Safety

• Drink bottled or purified water—avoid tap water.
• Eat food that is well-cooked and served hot.
• Be cautious with street food unless it's prepared fresh and hot.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly or peel them yourself.

4. Sun Protection & Hydration

• Use high-SPF sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses.
• Drink plenty of clean water to stay hydrated, especially on beach days or safaris.

5. Local Medical Services

• Carry a basic travel health kit (painkillers, antiseptics, diarrhea meds, etc.).
• Identify nearby clinics or hospitals in case of emergencies. In Diani or Ukunda, several private hospitals are available.

Safety Tips

1. Personal Security

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas or beaches.
• Use reputable taxis or rideshare services—avoid unregistered operators.
• Keep valuables out of sight and avoid flashy displays of wealth.

2. Beach and Marine Safety

• Swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present.
• Watch for strong currents and tides—ask locals or hotel staff if unsure.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen if snorkeling or diving in marine parks.
• Be cautious with water sports—rent from licensed operators.

3. Wildlife and Nature Tours

• Follow instructions from guides when visiting game reserves or marine parks.
• Do not feed or approach wild animals.
• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing during hikes or forest visits.

4. Cultural Respect

• Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites.
• Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Emergency Contacts

• Police Emergency: 999 or 112
• Medical Emergency (Red Cross): 1199
• Tourist Helpline (Kenya Tourism Board): +254 20 2711262
• Save contact info for your country's embassy or consulate.