National GeographicSep 8, 2026Want to See a Different Side of Kenya? Explore its Sacred Swahili CoastUncover the spiritual side of Kenya’s coastline — from ancient forests and coral reefs to one of East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlements.11 things in this storyKaya KinondoAttractionSacred grove open to travelers via community ecotourism projectElsewhereKisite-Mpunguti Marine National ParkSightWatamu, KenyaMarine protected area with coral reefs and turtle nesting sitesWatamu Marine National ParkSightWatamu, KenyaEstablished in 1968, it was one of Kenya's first marine parks.Malindi Marine National ParkSightMalindi, KenyaIt is claimed to be the oldest marine park in Africa.Local OceanPlaceWatamu, KenyaNot-for-profit organization involved in turtle nesting patrolsLamu ArchipelagoRestaurantLamu, KenyaRemote islands with a historic Swahili settlementSwahili House MuseumMuseumLamu, KenyaModest space in a 18th-century house with decorative nichesHabib Swaleh's tombSightLamu, KenyaModest tomb visited by pilgrims year-roundReefo DiversPlaceWatamu, KenyaMombasa Marine National ParkSightMombasa, KenyaRiyadha MosquePlace of worshipLamu, KenyaRead the full piece at National Geographic →
