By Ngumbao Kithi

Even though the humidity and high temperatures in Mombasa exhausts residents very quickly, it is still enjoyable for those on vacation. Among the favourite places that visitors should not miss is the Mombasa Marine Park where they will get to see, at close range, coral reefs and other marine life.

Mombasa is a coral island off the Coast of Kenya and it has beautiful coral reef and marine life, making the whole experience of diving and snorkelling awesome. Mombasa also has a deep harbour called Kilindini, which serves as a docking station for ships serving the region.

The area where the diving and snorkelling takes place is north of Mombasa, extending from around the Mtwapa creek all the way South to the entrance of Likoni. This is the famous Mombasa Marine Park and National Reserve.

READ MORE

 Mombasa port receives first cruise ship in 2026

 Kenya in fresh push to harness deep-sea fishing potential

 Business leaders push for port expansion to unlock Coastal growth

 AfDB to finance construction of Sh2b blue economy centre at TUM

Diverse fish life

In 1986, the Kenyan Government officially extended the Mombasa Marine Park and National Reserve to its well-deserved status.

A diver at the Mombasa Marine Park. The depths for diving and snorkelling vary between 30 ft to 1,000 ft. Photos: Omondi Onyango/Standard

The Park encompasses four square miles while the National Reserve extends 77 square miles. The marine park’s pristine beauty is kept in check by the Kenya Wildlife Service.

The depths for diving and snorkelling vary between 30 feet to 1,000 feet. The reefs are of different types, from multi-coloured hanging reefs and large corals, which complement the soft smooth sandy bottoms. Snorkelling in shallow depths display the coral reefs close to the surface, providing sustenance to small marine life which otherwise would be unable to survive.

The marine life at the Mombasa Marine and National Reserve is incredible. Plenty of diverse fish life can also be seen from the "glass bottom" boats, which I have to admit, is a fun experience. It is ideal for the cautious as they get the opportunity to enjoy the perfection of the interactions between the ocean and marine life that depend on it.