Private Historical Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest Tour with Guide
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the tranquility of a well-preserved sacred forest with cultural, religious significance and once a great home for the local Digo people, a sub-tribe of the Mijikenda people in the heart of Diani Beach -South Coast Kenya .Walk with a guide and Learn 600 years back beliefs, fears and history of the Kaya. Visit the shrines where the local retreated to communicate with their ancestral spirits in the form of prayers and sacrificial offerings and the place used as hide-outs from the enemies pursuing them during the early migration. Enjoy the natural forest embedded with great flora and fauna with many animals and birds to watch.
Available options
Private Historical Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest Tour with Guide
What's included
Guided Village tour with local
Brief information on local heritage and the forest tour
Guided forest tour with an experience of forest flora & fauna
local culture and traditional systems in the sacred forest
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your experience begins with a 15-minute introductory briefing at the Kaya Kinondo Visitor Information Centre, where your guide shares the heritage of the site, the cultural etiquette to observe, and what to expect during the visit.
2
Stop 2
You will then head to the forest. Experience a Guided forest walk (presentation on forest flora and fauna, local cultural and sacred activities around the forest). You will see and get an in-depth explanation of unique trees only found in the forest with significant local meaning and usage. It is a very relaxing experience.
Here you will discover the old Digo settlement - This is where the local community first settled before they dispersed.
The Main Shrine: This one is only accessed by the elders. Visitors and any other person who is not an elder can not visit but you will be told about it.
3
Stop 3
A short transfer brings guests to the nearby village for about 60 minutes of cultural immersion. Guests engage with local life, explore traditional livelihoods, meet the village healer, and enjoy a mandatory Digo traditional dance performance (approx. 15 minutes) as well as a tasting of local African herbal tea made from lemongrass (approx. 15 minutes). Guests may also sample freshly tapped palm wine (mnazi) if they wish.
The experience concludes in the village, where guests depart at their convenience.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off in a car
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Keep an eye out for our distinctive local guide wearing a light blue T-shirt, tagged
kaaribu.com experiences awaiting you at the forest main entrance
About Diani Beach
Diani Beach is a stunning coastal resort area in Kenya, renowned for its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant marine life. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement.
Top Attractions
Diani Beach
Diani Beach is famous for its white sand and clear blue waters. It's a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kitesurfing.
Beach
Full day or multiple visits
Free (some water sports activities may require payment)
Kishwa Beach
Kishwa Beach is a quieter and more secluded beach compared to Diani Beach. It's an excellent spot for a peaceful day by the sea.
Beach
Half day or full day
Free (some activities may require payment)
Colobus Conservation
Colobus Conservation is a sanctuary dedicated to the protection of the endangered Angolan colobus monkey. Visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures and the conservation efforts being made to protect them.
Nature
1-2 hours
Approximately $10-$20 per person
Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills National Reserve is a protected area known for its diverse wildlife, including the rare roan antelope. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching in this beautiful reserve.
Nature
Half day or full day
Approximately $20-$40 per person (including park fees)
Diani Beach Marine Park
Diani Beach Marine Park is a protected marine area known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours to explore the underwater world.
Nature
Half day or full day
Approximately $20-$50 per person (including equipment rental and park fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ugali and Nyama Choma
Ugali is a staple food made from cornmeal, while Nyama Choma is grilled meat, usually goat or beef. This combination is a must-try for any visitor to Diani Beach.
Main Course
Contains gluten (ugali) and meat (Nyama Choma)
Pilau
Pilau is a spiced rice dish cooked with meat, usually chicken or beef. It's a flavorful and aromatic dish that's popular in the coastal region of Kenya.
Main Course
Contains meat and spices
Octopus Curry
Octopus curry is a seafood dish made with tender octopus cooked in a spicy coconut curry sauce. It's a delicious and unique dish that's popular in the coastal region of Kenya.
Main Course
Contains seafood and spices
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Kitesurfing
Deep-sea fishing
Sunbathing
Beach walks
Spa treatments
Visiting local markets
Best Time to Visit
July to March
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities, water sports, and wildlife safaris. The weather is perfect for outdoor exploration and relaxation.
25-32°C
77-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Swahili
- Widely spoken: Swahili, English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Diani Beach is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and a welcoming local community. However, it's important to exercise caution and follow basic safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night, keeping valuables secure, and being aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid isolated areas at night
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Mombasa Moi International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles)
- Ukundwa Airstrip • 5 km (3.1 miles)
By bus
Mombasa Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Matatus are the most common form of public transport in Diani Beach. They are affordable but can be crowded and lack a fixed schedule.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bodaboda (for motorbike taxis)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Diani Beach
Kishwa Beach
Galu Kinondo
Day trips
Wasini Island
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
Wasini Island is a small island located near Diani Beach, known for its beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, snorkeling, and dolphin watching in the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park.
Mombasa Old Town
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day or full day
Mombasa Old Town is a historic area with a rich cultural heritage, featuring narrow streets, colonial-era buildings, and vibrant markets. Visitors can explore the town's history, sample local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs.
Halloween Cave
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day
Halloween Cave is a historic site located in Mombasa, known for its association with the infamous pirate Henry Avery. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about its history and the legends surrounding it.
Festivals
Diani Beach Festival • July
Lamu Cultural Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit Diani Beach during the dry season (July to March) for the best weather and beach conditions
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and secure the best prices
- Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to learn more about the area's history, culture, and wildlife, and to gain insider knowledge and tips
- Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites and local communities
- Support local businesses and communities by shopping at local markets, eating at local restaurants, and booking tours with local guides
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
