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Diving trip Kenya – Diani Beach & private island Chale Island

This trip takes you to two amazing places in Kenya. Here you will dive coral reefs full of life and stay on a private island paradise.

Travel period
January, February, March, April, October, November, December
Features
Boatdiving
Starting from
15 days from US$ 3.975 p.p.
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Diving in Kenya: Diani Beach & the private island of Chale

Did you know that Kenya is a surprisingly versatile diving destination? On the south coast, at the relaxed Diani Beach, you will find not only white sandy beaches, but also an exceptionally varied underwater world. You will stay, for example, in the stylish Nomad Beach Resort, directly by the sea, and partly on the unique Chale Island: a private island off the coast. Here everything revolves around peace, nature and diving in places where it is often wonderfully quiet under water.

Diving in Kenya is possible year-round and conditions are generally comfortable, with pleasant water temperatures and good visibility. The reefs along the south coast are colorful and healthy, with soft and hard corals, sponges and schools of reef fish. Turtles can be seen here almost daily, and reef sharks, rays and curious dolphins also make regular appearances. During certain times of the year, there is also a chance of spotting whale sharks, especially in the waters around Chale Island.

In addition to the larger marine life, Kenya is known for its huge diversity of small life. With more than 400 species of nudibranchs, this is a fantastic destination for macro lovers and underwater photographers. Think colorful nudibranchs, ghost lobsters, seahorses and other well-camouflaged inhabitants that you will only see if you take your time quietly. The dive sites are varied and suitable for both novice and experienced divers, with shallow reefs, gentle currents and plenty of challenge for those with more experience.

This makes this trip ideal for divers who want to relax and dive, but want to discover something new underwater every day. And if you want to complete the adventure, the trip is excellent to combine with a safari in one of the famous national parks, such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli or Tsavo.

Best travel time for a diving vacation to Kenya

The best time to dive is between October and April, when the water is warmest and visibility is best. Between November and February is whale shark season, between May and August you can see baby turtles on the beach and between July and September humpback whales migrate along the coast.

The diving school is open year-round, and it is possible to dive year-round.

Average temperatures

Wetsuit advice for diving in Kenya

Between November and May a 3mm is sufficient, for the other months a 5mm is finer for most people.

 

What will you experience on this diving vacation?

View itinerary here

Day 1 & 2 | The journey to Kenya

Today begins the journey to Kenya! There are direct flights to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. The flight takes about 8 hours.

From there, take a domestic flight to either Ukunda or Mombasa, whichever is more convenient. Both flights take about an hour and are close to the hotel in Diani Beach.
A transfer will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to the Nomad Beach Resort. You will stay in a beautiful place near the beach. After arrival you can unpack your diving gear and relax for the rest of the day.

The next five days are devoted to diving. Each day you will make two dives in the morning, all from the boat. The dive sites off Diani Beach and along the south coast of Kenya are among the most beautiful in the country and are suitable for different experience levels. Here you dive on colorful reefs with plenty of life, as well as places where you have a chance to encounter larger species such as turtles, rays and even whale sharks. Besides the larger marine life, there is also plenty of attention to the smaller details on the reef, which makes for varied and surprising dives. Add to that an impressive shipwreck and a healthy turtle population and you have a diving area where no day is ever the same!

Some of the dive sites around Diani Beach are:

  • Alpha Funguo Wreck is located at about 22 meters depth and is one of Kenya’s most famous dive sites. This shipwreck attracts many fish, including barracudas, schools of snappers and various reef fish. There is also always plenty to discover between the wreck and on the sandy bottom, making this dive extra interesting.
  • Kinondo is a reef at an average depth of 15 meters and is known for its abundance of fish. You often see schools of barracuda, snappers and triggerfish here, as well as turtles, moray eels and rays. Because of its open location, this is a place where pelagic species also show up regularly.
  • Mwanyaza is a slowly sloping reef with a depth of 14 meters. It is a pleasant, clear dive site with many turtles and rays, as well as reef fish and the occasional octopus. The calm conditions make this a fine and relaxing dive.
  • Dzinani offers a nice variation in scenery and current. On one side it is a calm drift dive, on the other a bit more challenging. You’ll dive along coral reefs that alternate with sand flats and see large schools of reef fish, turtles and unusual reef dwellers here.
Today you will leave the Nomad Beach Resort and head to Chale Island, a small private island just off the coast. Located about 10 kilometers south of Diani Beach, Chale Island is just six hundred meters off the coast. Depending on the tide, you make the crossing by boat or via a short trip from the mainland. Already upon arrival you will notice that you have landed in a completely different place, where peace and nature prevail.
Chale Island is small, at about 1.2 kilometers long and about 800 meters wide, but offers remarkable variety. Part of the island is set up as a resort, while the rest consists of protected nature reserve. Inland, you will find a mangrove area fed by the natural rhythm of ebb and flow. In addition, the island is an important place for sea turtles, which return here every year to lay their eggs on the beach. The bay with light coral sand and clear waters feels like a true paradise due to its remote location.
Around Chale Island is a coral reef that shelters the shore and provides pleasant diving conditions. You will therefore spend the next few days here diving on other dive sites.

The next two days are devoted to diving around Chale Island. Again, you will dive with the same diving school, which has its own location on the island. Every day you will make two boat dives on the surrounding reefs. The dive sites around the island are characterized by clear water, calm conditions and a nice variety of marine life. The coral reef that surrounds Chale Island makes for sheltered dives, where you dive along colorful reefs as well as over sandy patches. The secluded location makes diving here feel extra relaxed and intimate, with plenty of room to enjoy the underwater world at your own pace.

Dive sites where you might dive are:
  • Papa Mashilingiis a calm drift dive with colorful coral and many schools of fish. It is the place where during the season between October and March you have a chance to see whale sharks and who knows, maybe a majestic manta ray will cross your path as well.
  • Shimo La Samaki is a smaller reef full of interesting nooks and overhangs, ideal for those looking for unusual inhabitants and macro life. Among the rocks and coral structures you can discover well-hidden moray eels, shrimps and rays, while small fish fill the reefs. It requires quiet observation and watching everything the reef has to offer.
  • Chale Corneris close to the island and is one of the dives not to be missed. The slowly sloping reef attracts large schools of snappers and you can regularly encounter rays and guitar sharks. The coral provides a beautiful backdrop and small inhabitants make this dive varied and exciting for both novice and experienced divers.

No diving is scheduled today. It is the perfect day to relax and enjoy Chale Island to the fullest once again. You can relax on the white sandy beach, take a walk along the coast or explore the island’s mangrove area.

There is always something to do on Chale Island, and all non-motorized activities are free for guests. You can explore the island at your own pace, such as walking the Mangrove Boardwalk or visiting Gazi Village. The water invites snorkeling, kayaking or supping, and sandbars offer a peaceful setting for a short walk. For those who prefer to relax, there are also yoga sessions and bird watching by boat.

Today is also the last day of the trip and the time to return home. The transfer will take you to Mombassa airport, from where you will fly back home via Nairobi. Would you like to extend the trip and also discover the other side of Kenya? For example, you can add a safari to experience the country up close. We offer several options, but a safari along the famous national parks such as Maasai Mara, Amboseli or Tsavo is a great way to complete your trip. This way you combine tropical diving with impressive safari adventures.

Highlights of this trip

What can you expect from Kenya?

Encounters with whale sharks

Between November and February, whale sharks migrate along the coast of Kenya and you have the chance to encounter these giants. The greatest chance is around Chale Island, but there is also a chance to spot them at Diani Beach. Whale sharks are among the largest fish in the world and are fantastic to see while diving.

Fantastic macro

Underwater you have the chance to encounter big life, such as rays, turtles and whale sharks. But small life and macro are also fantastic. It is incredibly colorful and full of life. If you look closely, you will discover all the hidden inhabitants of the coral and see a world full of extraordinary details.

Staying on a private island

Chale Island is a special place. Of course because it is a private island , but also because you stay so close to nature. The island consists of the resort and a large nature reserve. In addition, it is surrounded by a beautiful coral reef where you can make the most beautiful dives.

The accommodation

The stay and surroundings

Nomad Beach Resort

Located directly on the white sandy beach of Diani Beach, Nomad Beach Resort is a comfortable base for your diving adventure on the south coast of Kenya. The rooms are spacious and equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning, minibar and Wi-Fi to ensure your stay is comfortable and taken care of. The resort has a restaurant and bar, swimming pools and various leisure facilities, allowing you to enjoy yourself outside of diving. Its beachfront location makes it easy to leave early for boat dives, but there is also time to relax after your dives and enjoy the sun, sea and tropical scenery.

Chale Island

Chale Island is a secluded retreat on a private island off the coast of Kenya. Surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine nature, the island offers a perfect combination of tranquility, adventure and a relaxed atmosphere.

There are several types of accommodations available, feel free to ask about the options. All rooms have a private bathroom and are equipped with air conditioning, hot showers, a minibar and Wi-Fi.

On the island you will find several restaurants, a spa, a gym, three pools and yoga opportunities. There is always something to do, regardless of the tide. Non-motorized activities are included and range from cultural and nature excursions, such as a visit to Gazi Village or the Mangrove Boardwalk, to snorkeling, kayaking, SUP and sandbar walks.

The diving school

The diving school and facilities

Diving the Crab

Diving the Crab is one of the best diving schools in Kenya and offers a wide range of diving opportunities for both beginners and experienced divers. The diving school has two locations: one on Nomad Beach Resort and one on Chale Island. Boat dives are organized daily from both locations, allowing you to fully experience the colorful reefs, rich marine life and special encounters with species such as turtles, rays and whale sharks.

Travel costs

What is included

This dive vacation to Kenya is available from US$ 3.975 per person based on two people in one room. The diving trip can be expanded as desired. A number of things are included by default in this travel package.

Prices are subject to price changes, increases or changing exchange rates. Flights are always based on the cheapest possible booking class.

Want to know more about this trip to Kenya? Get in touch with us!

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Included in this diving trip, from US$ 3.975 p.p.
  • Diani Beach
  • Group 9 Copy 2 6 nights at Nomad Beach Resort
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Staying in a Garden Room
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Stay on a bed & breakfast basis
  • Chale Island
  • Group 9 Copy 2 4 nights at Chale Island Resort
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Staying in a Deluxe Room
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Half board accommodation
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Non-motorized activities
  • Diving
  • Group 9 Copy 2 10 dives at Nomad Beach
  • Group 9 Copy 2 4 dives at Chale Island
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Use of nitrox
  • General
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Return transfers
  • Group 9 Copy 2 VZR & Administration fee
Excluding
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Flights from US$ 1.153 p.p.
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Dive & Travel Insurance

✈︎ The quoted (international) flight prices are indicative prices and based on departures from Europe. However, we can arrange flights from any location worldwide. Booking your own flights is of course also possible.

Optional
  • Group 9 Copy 2 Rental diving equipment

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Frequently asked questions about this trip

Diving general

An Open Water certification is sufficient for this trip. There are dive sites for every level.

You will make all dives from the boat. Because of the corora reef and tides, it is not possible to make shore dives. You mainly make reef dives here. There is also a fantastic wreck and it is possible to make drift dives.

Most dive sites are close by. Some are only a 5-minute boat ride away. The farthest dive site is about a 25-minute boat ride away.

No, there is no house reef.

Yes, it is possible to make night dives.

Yes, PADI courses are given.

Diving equipment

Both tanks are available.

Only a few 15L tanks are available.

Yes, you can. If you bring your own equipment it’s no problem at all.

Yes, you can use nitrox free of charge if you are certified for it.

Yes, there is a small additional cost on renting the equipment. Please feel free to ask us about this cost.

You leave your diving equipment in the diving school. Here you can rinse and store it after the dive.

Nomad Beach Resort

There are 4 different accommodations:

  • Garden Room
  • Ocean View Suite
  • Beach Cottage
  • Family Suite

The price includes a standard stay based on bed and breakfast. It is possible to stay on a half-board or full-board basis. All-inclusive is not possible here. Feel free to ask us about custom prices. There are also several restaurants within walking distance of the Nomad Beach Resort.

Yes, there is a spa and wellness at the resort.

You can do an activity during your stay, the material for this is available for free:

  • Snorkels
  • Kayaks
  • Boogie boards
  • Skim boards
  • SUP boards
  • Surfing
  • Wind surfing

For a fee, you can also take a SUP, surfing or windsurfing course.

In addition to the water sports, you can also participate in the forest walks, which are organized daily free of charge. In the right season, you can also participate in a Diani Turtle Watch Tour.

Yoga is given every day. You can join the morning session from 07:00 to 08:00 for free. Do book this in advance. There is also a gym, which is open 24/7. There are no separate sports classes.

Chale Island Resort

There are 5 different accommodations:

  • Deluxe Room
  • Tower Suite
  • Ocean View Banda
  • Overwater Suite
  • Suite on the Rocks

The price includes a stay based on half-board as standard. It is possible to stay based on full board or all-inclusive. Feel free to ask us about custom prices.

Yes, there is a spa and wellness at the resort. There is also a gym and the opportunity to participate in yoga classes.

You can do an activity during your stay, the material for this is available for free:

  • Snorkels
  • Kayaks
  • Boogie boards
  • Skim boards
  • SUP boards
  • Surfing
  • Wind surfing

For a fee, you can also take a SUP, surfing or windsurfing course.

Regardless of the tide, there is always something to do on Chale Island. All non-motorized activities are free for guests.

  • Cultural & nature – Visit Gazi Village, explore the Mangrove Boardwalk or go bird watching by boat.
  • Sea adventure – Enjoy snorkeling, trips to sandbars, kayaking, supping or walks on the tide pools.
  • Wellness & relaxation – Unwind during yoga sessions in a serene, tropical setting.
  • Scenic excursions – Take a sunset cruise or a peaceful boat ride through the mangroves.
  • For adventurers – Deep-sea fishing.

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