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 storyKisite-Mpunguti Marine National ParkSightMarine protected area with coral reefs and turtle nesting sitesWatamu Marine National ParkSightEstablished in 1968, it was one of Kenya's first marine parks.Local OceanPlaceNot-for-profit organization involved in turtle nesting patrolsReefo DiversPlaceElsewhereKaya KinondoAttractionDiani, KenyaSacred grove open to travelers via community ecotourism projectMalindi Marine National ParkSightMalindi, KenyaIt is claimed to be the oldest marine park in Africa.Lamu 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-roundMombasa Marine National ParkSightMombasa, KenyaRiyadha MosquePlace of worshipLamu, KenyaRead the full piece at National Geographic →
