Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park

Kisite-Mpunguti protects a group of small coral islands and the reefs around them near the Tanzanian border, and it is generally reckoned the best snorkelling and diving in Kenya: visibility is good, the coral is in better condition than closer to Mombasa, and the fish life is dense, with parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels, turtles and occasional reef sharks. Bottlenose and humpback dolphins are resident and are seen on most trips. The standard visit is a full-day dhow trip from Shimoni or Wasini, sailing out for snorkelling over the reef, then lunch on Wasini Island, usually crab and fish, followed by the mangrove boardwalk and the coral gardens there. Kisite island itself is a low sandy islet used by breeding terns and closed to landing in the nesting season.

What you actually see

• Reef snorkelling - dense fish life over healthy coral.
• Dolphins - resident bottlenose and humpback pods.
• Kisite island - the sand islet with breeding seabirds.
• Wasini lunch and coral garden - the standard afternoon half of the trip.

When to go

October to March for the calmest sea and best visibility; the southeast monsoon from June to September brings rough water and poor conditions, and many operators stop. Early departures give the best sea and light.

Honest expectations

Trips are sold as packages and vary enormously in quality; check the boat, the equipment and whether park fees are included. Dolphin sightings attract too many boats at times, which stresses the animals; choose operators who keep distance. Snorkelling gear provided is often worn. The sea can be rough even in season.

Nearby

Wasini Island is the lunch stop; Shimoni is the mainland base.