Things to do in Malindi in January

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Overview

January is a good time to visit Malindi. The weather is usually very warm and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 77—89°F (25—32°C).

Malindi has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your January trip to Malindi. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to January. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Malindi in January. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout January, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Visiting Malindi? See our Malindi Trip Planner.
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Best events and things to do in Malindi in January

Top experiences in January
We couldn't find any experiences in January
Holidays in Malindi in January
January
  • New Year's Day (January 1)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Malindi in January

Temperatures on an average day in Malindi in January

The average temperature in Malindi in January for a typical day ranges from a high of 89°F (32°C) to a low of 77°F (25°C). Some would describe the temperature to be very warm. The general area may also feel breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Malindi, March, has days with highs of 89°F (32°C) and lows of 79°F (26°C). The coldest month, August has days with highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 74°F (23°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Malindi in January based on historical data.

Visiting Malindi? See our Malindi Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in January
89°F
highs
77°F
lows

General weather summary

Very warm, breezy
Feels like
4%
Chance of rain
0.028 in
Amount
14.3 mph
Wind speed
75%
Humidity
12.3 hrs
Daylight length
6:19 AM
Sunrise
6:36 PM
Sunset
36%
Cloud cover
Sleeveless shirt
What to wear
What to wear in January
With an average high of 89°F (32°C) and a low of 77°F (25°C), it generally feels very warm and breezy. With that in mind, most people would dress in something very light like a sleeveless shirt
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Best attractions for Malindi in January

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Malindi has to offer for travelers in January, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Malindi that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Malindi for January.
Watamu Beach
1. Watamu Beach
4.6
(751)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
A popular snorkelling & diving destination, this calm sandy beach is home to diverse marine life.
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Che Mi Dice Watamu 😎 Watamu Staycation Tuesday 15.10.24 The closest airport to Watamu is 25-30 minutes away in the town of Malindi, a one-hour, 15-minute plane ride from the capital Nairobi. Otherwise, it’s around a two-hour drive from Mombasa; Kshs 600 Matatu ride along an epic coastal road where the ocean changes colour by the second, from cobalt blue, and azure to the brightest turquoise; baobab trees line up in style; creeks dot the side of the road and the kids all over Watamu through the villages warm up to you with Italian greetings; “Chao?!” 👇🏼 🌅 Do not sleep on the Watamu sunrises! 🏋️ Fun; fitness and dance mornings with Fit Like Vic Watamu. 🐢 Local Ocean conservation efforts! 🌴Beach Walks! 🍸 Drinks at Ocean Sports Resort. 🌅 Sunset at Lichthaus! Daydreamers, nature lovers, couples, friends, or families — I will be back some day! Still much more to see and explore Watamu. Diani is calling once again but Watamu remains an ideal tropical holiday destination or the perfect location for a post-safari wind-down. 👌🏼 - #explorekenya #watamukenya #thenomadicrasta
Vincent L — Google review
The rubbish and plastic on the beach is such a shame, so much that we were lost for words - very sad to see for a nature reserve. See attached images just how bad it is…
Alan W — Google review
Watamu beach has to be the most safest beach I have been to in my history of traveling to coast. I got to visit love island and I love the clear white sand waters.
Winfred M — Google review
If you looking for a perfect beach experience between Kilifi and Malindi, then Watamu is the place to be!
Peter O — Google review
Watamu has a very unique and interesting beach experience. A large portion of the coast is covered tall rock cliffs. This lends itself to some every unique exploring and some cool stuff to see. High tide is beautiful with the waves crashing over the rocks. The beach portions are predominantly white sand and are great for sandcastle building or beach sports. The wildlife is less than some other parts of the coast and the sunrise/sunset can be hard to see because of the coves, however it's a gorgeous place to live or vacation.
Nehemiah W — Google review
Was beautiful, enjoyed snorkeling and watching the dolphins.I loved feeding the eels in the mornings too.The beach guides can help know the places to visit around.
Suzie S — Google review
Friendly staff, went for the deep sea diving expedition... It was fun snorkeling, swimming with the zebra fish... Made several stop overs. Swimming with the dolphins, and finished with a late lunch at Sudi island
Brie — Google review
Fresh Sea foods and island excursion done here beautiful small beach with lots of tourist
Franklin A — Google review
Hell’s Kitchen
2. Hell’s Kitchen
4.6
(1019)
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
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Such a stunning place! The rocks with all their shades and colors are absolutely amazing. We made a tour with a local guide. It was very interesting. And the sunset over hell's kitchen is really something you don't want to miss.
Sarah B — Google review
Visited Dec 2022. Great experience but the heat is no joke. Preferably visit early morning. Interesting history to it. It's an initiative to support the community as told.
Daniel W — Google review
A great experience, Upon arrival you are met and introduced to your guide (500ksh). They provide information about the site and guide you through the canyon. Our guide was great at pointing out food photo spots and allowing us to explore. You get around 1 hour in the canyon. We arrived at around 3:30/4:00 so we could enjoy sunrise on the rim. This was a great experience. They have a bar area selling beers and cold drinks at reasonable prices. Overall a very good experience in a unique setting
Lewis B — Google review
Such a beautiful place and over view of nature. Good reception, introductory and entrance fee. They are very quick to attend to people hence no delays at all.
Rehema M — Google review
A MUST in your buck list when visiting the Kenyan Coast. A lot of agencies offer the guided tour and it’s definitely a tour to do. Realizing that Kenya nature has much more to offer than Safaris and Crystal clear sea, these canyons are truly a gem ! Johnathan was our guide, 22 years of experience. We got lucky to have him!
Serena M — Google review
The combination of historic architecture, lively eateries, and the breathtaking sunset panorama makes Hell's Kitchen a captivating place to experience the magic of New York City's twilight.
Bonnyface N — Google review
Amazing place to visit and take a walk in. It's a feast for the eyes. U have to wear comfortable shoes to walk through with ease. We visited on a sunny day and everything went well.
Hadijah N — Google review
The visit was breath taking. You can take a thousand photos and still have an urge to take More photos. The staffs are friendly and welcoming.
Jaffar Y — Google review
Vasco da Gama Pillar
3. Vasco da Gama Pillar
4.3
(1707)
Historical place
Sights & Landmarks
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My wife and I did a visit to the Vasco da Gama Pillar in Malindi, and it was such a memorable experience. Standing by the historic monument, with the ocean stretching out behind it, really made us feel connected to the past. The views were breathtaking, and hearing the waves crash below added to the magic of the moment. It was a special stop on our trip, where history and nature came together beautifully. We appreciated our guide for the explanations 👏🏽👍🏼
Samwel N — Google review
I lived the dedicated tour guide and explanations of things that happened. I loved to see the first catholic church and also to know the traditions of Mijikenda people in the coast. It was a lovely experience.
Juma W — Google review
If someone is at coast in Malindi and misses to visit this place, then one would miss a very important piece from history of not only this region but also of South Asia as well. This place reminds how and what was discovered and what is importance of this coast of today’s Kenya. The entrance requires a ticket which includes a guide who accompanies when you visit the place and briefs in detail about the history. Price of entry ticket is reasonable and one caution in parking. The parking closer to the small office is safe place to park, I mean the office where they issue tickets but this is not very spacious and you will be lucky if you will find parking there.
Suhail A — Google review
It's an amazing peace of creation i loved the scenery.
Tinashe T — Google review
The beach was absolutely stunning with massive waves crashing against the shore . Standing at Vasco da Gama's pillar felt like touching centuries of maritime history. From the raw energy of those incredible waves to the timeless stories carved in coral stone, Malindi is where adventure meets heritage. An unforgettable coastal experience! 🌊⚓
Akasa A — Google review
After so many years, i went to visit the site again with my partner and i'm glad to see the improvements done to make the site appealing. I loved it. We got there very early in the morning to have enough time for photos without many people.
Japhlet M — Google review
Its a historical site and there's an entrance fee. Visit to know more
Margaret A — Google review
This is the most beautiful place for refreshing with the family. It also has got traditional things.. It acts like a museum
John O — Google review
Falconry Of Kenya Ltd
4. Falconry Of Kenya Ltd
4.4
(582)
Bird shop
Nature & Parks
Slide 1 of 8
It a great picnic site to visit , only if You not phobic to reptiles🤭 A calm cool place and very professional tour guides. You should all make a plan to visit the place and experience the greatness of the screne environment.
Joram M — Google review
It's a nice place with several birds and Reptiles(rescued from the community or so they say).Local guides demand about 500ksh and they can't let you walk around on your own.They Scan to see if you have money if you don't look like one to leave a big tip you might miss a guide or get one who is half willing. More can be done to make the facility more appealing ,The experience is worthwhile.Not a place you would want to go back to after one visit.
DAVID K — Google review
We've visited this place three times now, each time we're in Malindi, and it never disappoints. It's a wonderful spot where you can learn about wildlife, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can even hold a small snake and snap some photos. You'll also have the chance to interact with birds and play with Paulina, the friendly owl. Every visit is a unique experience
Film C — Google review
Was very nice place for visit, you can't imagine how big is turtle one of them.gids we've very nice person also information hi gives.
Mario G — Google review
Best experience,got to know most of the nocturnal birds in the region
Musa A — Google review
It is such a pathetic place that you feel really sorry for the birds and animals here. They are tied up and look like exhibits. No animal lover should visit this place. And not sure how Kenya wildlife service is even allowing this. Request everyone to please stop this crime against the poor birds and animals
Kailash I — Google review
We had so much fun. We got to see a couple of wildlife we'd never seen before. There were snakes, crocodiles, a biiig tortoise and lots of interesting birds. Got one to fly on me like a pirate and take amazing shots. Very affordable, must go place
Eric M — Google review
This was a great experience to take the young kids to see many different species of animal, especially the giant tortoise. It was also very interactive with snake holding and falcon holding. Good job too, Samson the guide who walked us through everything who had great knowledge of each different species.
Christopher W — Google review
Malindi Museum
5. Malindi Museum
4.1
(447)
Museum
National museum
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Doris was insightful and knowledgeable about the museum offerings. Made me understand the package of the Museum, Vasco Da Gama, and the Church. Don't miss the circuit one ticket gets you to Four sites
Ssali G — Google review
A good place to learn about the history of a kanga and the mijikenda community. Charges for citozens is 100/= which covers the entrance fee for the portuguese chapel as well as the Vasco da Gama pillar
Grace W — Google review
Nice little museum. Lots of information about culture, history, daily life and kangas. Worth a visit. However the displays are in bad need of cleaning. Glasses were dirty.
Emre G — Google review
It’s a beautiful place really chill and peaceful atmosphere, quite dull actually with the historical artefacts around in the museum. It is really quiet and peaceful, best for historians that enjoy chill vibes and young kids to nurture their curiosity. I would recommend to visit this museum when go to Malindi. Only downside is that it doesn’t have much artefacts compared to other museums in Kenya. It even has a historical monument that not many people know about, worth the visit.
Giulio M — Google review
Small but overflowing with rich cultural history. A few signs here and there could be updated but nice to see Malindi and Kilifi‘s historical legacy. We loved that you could buy one ticket and visit all 4 cultural sites in Malindi.
J K — Google review
It's a pity that the museum did not show the Maritime collection. The guide was good, knows a lot and was nice, but the museum shows a lack of interest (money) from the govt as so many cultural aspects in Kenya.
Ben R — Google review
Great place to visit , Malindi Heritage Complex was build in 1890's it hosted 3 Governments at different times,now it has display of Swahili culture and a temporary exhibitions room, upper floor we have culture display of the Dawida/Taita people and the Mijikenda Community * make entrance fee payments at the ticketing office get to visit 4~Sites with one ticket only 1. Heritage Complex 2. House of Column 3. Portuguese chapel 4. Vasco da Gama Charges Citizen: 100/= Adults,50/= Child Residents of Kenya and East Africa :400/= Adult ,200/= Child Non Resident 500/= Adult,250/= Child Visit Malindi Museum Society,Nature Kenya Membership & Gift shop and get membership to support conservation Good work is being done by great people #Kilifi #Malinditourism
Amina S — Google review
History rich center, want to learn a little bit more about your coastal origin then don't miss the opportunity. No guide available, so just walk around a read through. First of three/four other locations on the same ticket access.
Shammah N — Google review
Portuguese Chapel
6. Portuguese Chapel
4.2
(273)
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
A very good Historical Sites... The first church in whole of East Africa..
Sameer A — Google review
The chapel is a very small building. Inside there isnt much to see. Around the chapel there are some graves. Its a historic side. Its a shame that next to the chapel a huge building is constructed.
Micaëla B — Google review
history lovers,this is one of the best historical spots in Malindi,Kilifi County. learn about Vasco da Gama the portuguese sailor and other interesting religion history here. worth visiting. very friendly staff.
Ruby M — Google review
The Portuguese Chapel was built in 1952 as the first place of worship in the East Africa located in Malindi town near Vasco Da Gama. It marked the beginning of Portuguese presence in Malindi. The chapel was build in an Islamic dominated town with 17 Mosques at the time as part of the Portuguese factory. Near the chapel, there are two graves of sailors who died before Saint Francis's voyage to India. These sailors were buried there by Francis himself in 1542. The chapel was abandoned by the Portuguese in November 1698 but was later revived by the British who arrived in 1893. While the Portuguese were successful in trade, they failed to establish a lasting Christian presence in East Africa, gaining only a few converts in Malindi and Mombasa. The Chapel today is managed by the National Museums of Kenya, serving as a historical monument and a testament to the early Christian presence in the Region. The entry Charges to the chapel is Ksh 100 which is paid through mobile money on E Citizen platform.
Maina P — Google review
First chapel in East Africa. Built way before in the 1500s but for totally different reasons. To access this place you've got to request for a guide at the vasco da gama heritage site manned by nmk..
Grace W — Google review
You should not miss this place if you visited to Malindi. This is very important iconic built by the Portuguese in the 15th century. This is exactly located in the malindi town. Once you get a ticket here you you will be eligible to visit the museum and the Vasco Da Gama Pillar too.
David K — Google review
Amazing experience and history
James W — Google review
Very lovely place!
Ken T — Google review
New Market - Mombasa
7. New Market - Mombasa
4.0
(231)
Market
Shopping
Slide 1 of 8
Fairly large market with a variety of farm produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables are always available. Most of the vegetables are sourced locally from the nearby sabaki River. They are mostly free from chemicals as they are grown by small scale farmers along the river banks. There's also a butchery where meat from the local slaughter house is sold. The meat is halal as the slaughter house is locally-owned.
Moses ( — Google review
I love the shop
LIVINGSTONE W — Google review
I heard that this place has even better deals then the old market but because of a distance I came here just to look around without buying anything. I could see a lot of varieties of fruit, vegetables and other goods.
Jarda V — Google review
Full of fresh products! Zero hygienic conditions.
Marcelo T — Google review
Malindi New market is a nice and cool place to shop at.Things are relatively cheap and affordable
Mr.photographer — Google review
Good place to do shopping. For travellers who are new, there are even guest houses where you can book to sleep for the night at affordable prices.
Josphine Y — Google review
A very good open air market to shop all you groceries and is very convenient especially to visitors who are not familiar with the routes since the market is at the stage
George W — Google review
Visit Malindi to enjoy the most historic places like Vasco Da Gama pillar,Gede ruins etc
William O — Google review
Ndoro Sculpture Garden by appointment only
8. Ndoro Sculpture Garden by appointment only
4.8
(19)
Museum
Art Galleries
Slide 1 of 8
A beautiful garden filled with fresh air, sculptures that speak about the Zimbabwean culture and an amazing host who is very knowledgeable, friendly and kind. It was my first time there, but definitely not my last time.
Cathrine I — Google review
Standing in front of the gate made of scrap metal artistically arranged I knew I was in for something unique. Ndoro is a special place, with sculptures placed so gently among the beautiful plants, flowers and trees. If you are looking for a peaceful walk and a feast for the eyes then I really recommend a trip to this garden. Call ahead though as it’s by appointment only.
TJ M — Google review
This place is simply magic. The collector has 300 sculptures in her garden. It’s lush and green with many art work. It’s a celebration of what’s good about Afriaca. If you’re lucky, you will get the chance to view some painting since the owner also hosts art exhibitions. I ended up buying a beautiful painting and some art work. Worth the visit to Malindi just to see this.
Mohamed N — Google review
Beautiful place to visit if you love art and gardening. Wonderful sculpture collection from Zimbabwe and the owner is very knowledgeable on the history of Zimbabwean sculpting.
Sheila N — Google review
Carola is an amazing lady. This place is amazing and soo beautiful. The sculptures are beautiful, well maintained. Different types of flowers, and cool surroundings. I'd recommend Ndoro to anyone thinking of visiting Malindi.
Christine M — Google review
Beautiful garden with over 300 stone sculptures surrounded by birds chirping. It is a Little heaven in malindi for all art lovers with excellent customer service. FYI:Reservation is required before visiting the garden
Mirriam N — Google review
The warm welcome I received from Carola, is still etched in my heart - Thank you. As we walked down the garden we spoke like old friends. Carola has vast knowledge about the sculptures and her perspectives are refreshing. I learnt a lot and was happy to rename Ndoro to:" The garden of excellence and power " because therein lies a lot of power and attention to detail from the sculptors. Next time you are in Malindi, book an appointment to experience that power!.
Catherine S — Google review
Truly a hidden gem!! We loved the experience, from the beautiful stone sculptures, to the amazing stories behind each and the warm welcome by the very friendly dogs and the very generous host. Entry was free and yet we got a gift of a stone sculpture each, how wonderful. We were happy to find a gift shop within that allowed us a chance to get a token of our wonderful time in the amazing garden. We shall definitely be back to the beautiful, peaceful amazing garden.
Jane B — Google review
Prawn's Lake Conservation project
9. Prawn's Lake Conservation project
4.6
(188)
Restaurant
Nature & Parks
Slide 1 of 8
📌 Prawn's Lake Chill spot to catch the sunset and vibe with memories of good times, whether with friends or someone special. Perfect weekend unwind.
Kapheth — Google review
Incredibly yummy samosas prepared fresh for us on the spot. Honest to God, best ones I have ever had. Nice ambience of the place only makes you wish to come back more often!
Marcin W — Google review
Every was gracious, the food, the ambiance, the lake, the fish, our house at the other site, and the sunset. Heavenly 👌🏼
Ben R — Google review
Tasty tasty food, beautiful ambiance with lively sunset view and friendly, prompt service. Ecotourism in service of protecting the mangrove!
Richard V — Google review
Delicious food, really big portions, quiet/chilled ambience and quite cheap. Will definitely be back!
Carolina F — Google review
It is a great place. Food is absolutely amazing, delicious!! Beautiful view and very kind people.
Dorian R — Google review
Nice for lunch, dinner or brunch.... They have kayaks to go around the mangrove.
Abdulwahab J — Google review
They only had kingfish plus some other seafood like octopus calamari prawns lobster shrimp Sadly nothing is grilled. They only fry the fish & seafoods. I do prefer grilled. I’m not a fan of seed oils. I wish if they had mixed salad or steamed / boiled vegetables.
Aby H — Google review
Malindians
10. Malindians
5.0
(5)
Tourist information center
Visitor Centers
Slide 1 of 2
Malindians has been sharing informative information about Malindi town. What comes striking to me is the amount of information they have collected about the History of Malindi. Pop in and get various information and tourism and business in Malindi
LYNN T — Google review
Awesome
Rungua S — Google review
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