If you have ever visited then you know what you are missing. Few lands can boast such a variety of splendid attractions: diverse and ancient cultures, abundant wildlife, dramatic topography, and some of the world’s most sought-after pelagic treasures. Destinations like the Masai Mara, Tsavo, Naivasha, and Lamu evoke amazing memories, stimulate bright-eyed conversations, and rekindle your desire to revisit Kenya.
My first visit in 1967 left an impression that still shimmers in my memory, like surf breaking on a distant reef. That’s why, 50 years later, I am starting a new venture on the Kenya coast. Backpacker’s Club Malindi is not your typical backpacker’s hostel. An ocean-front villa set on two acres of palm groves and frangipani, with a short-course olympic sized pool, three bedrooms, and two private cottages (all en-suite), and overlooking secluded coral coves and silver sand beaches, it has a distinctly upmarket feel. Only the rate is downmarket: $30 a night, including tropical breakfast.
Moreover Malindi is the ideal jumping off point for further exploration of East Africa. Prices for return flights to destinations in the region have come down considerably - Lamu $90, Nairobi $110, Kilimanjaro $150, Entebbe $250 - and a 90-day tourist visa, valid across East Africa, is now available. Of the region's 75 game parks and reserves, I have visited 35, and I am intimately familiar with half a dozen. I am happy to arrange a safari for you. Whether it’s gorilla trekking in the Albertine Rift Valley, big game fishing on the Malindi-Watamu Bank, or a camel safari at Lake Turkana, I will ensure your excursion is thrilling, safe, and affords you rich and lasting memories.
But first come and chillax on the coast, catch some rays, stay a while (our rates certainly allow it) while you weigh up your options. Within half a day’s drive are Che Shale, famous for its soft-shell crab; Watamu where countless world records for billfish have been set; and Tsavo East National Park, home to Kenya’s largest elephant population.
I am always happy to answer your questions. Karibu sana!
