How to get to Malindi

Malindi is a vibrant resort town on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya, famous for its pristine white beaches and ancient Swahili architecture. If you are planning to visit Malindi, you will be pleased to know that this corner of East Africa is accessible via various means, including domestic flights, bus routes, and car journeys. The choice of how to get to the city depends on your preferences and departure point, but any option promises to be the start of an exciting adventure.

The most convenient way to begin your journey is to fly directly to Malindi Airport (MYD), which is located in the immediate vicinity of the city. This aviation hub regularly receives domestic flights from the capital and other regions of Kenya, allowing tourists to quickly reach the Indian Ocean coast. Thanks to the terminal's convenient location, transfers to most hotels and resort areas take very little time.

If a direct flight is not available, an excellent alternative is a flight to Mombasa, located approximately 100 kilometers south. This is a major transport hub receiving many international flights, from where it is easy to continue your journey to your destination. Additionally, for planning complex coastal itineraries, you might consider flights via neighboring Ukunda or the picturesque Lamu.

There is no direct rail service to Malindi, as there is no station in the city itself. However, many travelers choose a combined route involving a trip on the popular "Madaraka Express" train. This modern train runs from the country's capital to Mombasa—the nearest major transport hub to the resort. The railway journey is considered an adventure in itself: the tracks pass through national parks, and wild animals, including elephants and giraffes, can often be seen from the carriage windows.

Upon arrival at the terminus in Mombasa, the remaining part of the journey to Malindi must be covered by road. This can be a taxi, a private transfer, or a scheduled bus. The road along the coast of Kenya takes about two and a half hours, allowing tourists to enjoy views of the ocean and palm groves even before arriving at the hotel.

Bus travel is one of the most affordable and authentic ways to get to Malindi, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life. The most popular route runs from Mombasa: comfortable coaches and local minibuses cover the distance of 120 kilometers in an average of 2.5–3 hours. The road runs along the picturesque coast, offering travelers views of palm groves and sisal plantations.

For those traveling from the southern beaches, the trip from Ukunda will take about 4–5 hours, including the ferry crossing, covering a distance of approximately 160 kilometers. There is also a connection with the northern archipelago: buses from Lamu island travel south for about 6 hours, covering 230 kilometers on the roads of Kenya. This journey offers a great opportunity to see the changing landscapes from mangrove forests to the savannah.

Traveling by car to Malindi offers freedom of movement and the chance to see the real Africa from your window. The most sought-after route is from Mombasa: the distance of about 115 kilometers can be covered in 2.5–3 hours, enjoying coastal views along the B8 highway. The trip from the resort of Ukunda will take slightly longer—about 3 hours for a distance of 165 kilometers, and extra time should be allowed for possible queues at the Likoni ferry crossing.

A route from historic Lamu is also available, suitable for lovers of longer road adventures. For comfortable travel on the roads of Kenya, tourists often choose a pre-booked taxi or private transfer: this eliminates difficulties with the local left-hand traffic, and the cost of a trip from the nearest major cities usually varies between 50–100 dollars, depending on the car class and negotiation skills.

A trip to Malindi promises to be unforgettable if you prepare in advance for the local lifestyle and climate. To ensure your holiday in Kenya is as comfortable and carefree as possible, we have compiled several useful recommendations to help you feel confident.

1. Clothing and Attire. The coastal climate is hot and humid year-round, so opt for loose clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Swimwear is suitable for the beach, but for walking around the city, it is advisable to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as local Islamic traditions are strong here.
2. Transport. The most popular and colorful way to move around the city is by three-wheeled tuk-tuks. It is inexpensive and convenient for short trips, but be sure to agree on the price with the driver before boarding, as they do not have meters.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling. Major hotels and supermarkets accept bank cards, but for buying souvenirs, fruits at the market, or paying for small services, you will definitely need cash. It is best to exchange money at official exchange points (Forex Bureaus) or banks.
4. Health and Safety. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks from street vendors. In the evening, be sure to use mosquito repellents. Tourist zones are safe, but it is better to keep valuables and documents in the hotel safe and use taxis when moving around after dark.
5. Communication. English is an official language and is widely spoken, so there will be no communication problems in hotels and restaurants. Additionally, due to the large Italian diaspora, many locals understand Italian. Learn the word "Jambo" (Hello)—it always brings a smile to Kenyans.
6. Local Etiquette. Life here flows at the rhythm of "pole-pole" (slowly-slowly). Do not get irritated if service in a restaurant seems unhurried—this is part of the local culture of relaxation. Greetings are very important: always say hello before asking a question or starting a conversation.
7. What to Avoid. It is strongly not recommended to photograph local residents without their permission, nor to photograph government buildings and police officers. Also, refrain from excessive public displays of affection (kissing and hugging) in public places outside your hotel grounds.
8. Extra Tip. Malindi is often called the "Little Italy" of East Africa. Be sure to try not only the local fresh seafood (which is widely available and Halal-friendly) but also authentic Italian gelato or pizza—the quality of these dishes here is surprisingly high due to historical ties with Italy.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid awkward situations and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this hospitable city. May your trip be filled only with pleasant discoveries and vivid impressions!