North Africa meets Kenya at Twiga Beach Resort

By Ferdinand Mwongela

The sun burns fiercely down on the people below, the sweltering heat only tempered by the cool breeze blowing from the Indian Ocean, reminding one of the fabled contest between the sun and

The front view of The Twiga Beach Resort

the wind engaged in a contest to see who was stronger.

At the background the swish swash of the water lapping the shoes brings a calming effect, the soft white sand beneath your feet almost like a blank canvas, inviting, enticing. This is Watamu.

The Watamu shoreline must be one of the most beautiful along the Kenyan coastline. Deep blue waters and a calm that Mombasa only dreams of. Along this coastline lies several Ora Resorts; one of these is the Twiga Beach Resort.

From the main gate it’s evident that Twiga Beach Resort is unique in its own way. Like the other Ora Resorts, it takes a theme of its own and runs with it. In this case the predominantly Moroccan and North Africa themed buildings and furnishings rule.

Merged cultures

The white washed buildings built in Northern Africa architecture and the landscaping transports you miles to the North. Here and there the signage is in Italian with more than a few people conversing in the language. A merging of cultures you would say, North Africa meets Kenya.

Set within its own compound and opening right to the ocean, the resort offers a hideout perfect for the important time. The resort nestles away from the road, but is still within easy reach. Its proximity to Malindi town also means that you do not have to be cooped in the resort as you can easily access the vibrant Malindi Night life.

In the heat, associated with the coastal strip, the swimming pool is the perfect idea in the daytime and for the more daring, the wide blue ocean lies right in front of them.

Ideally if all you want is a quiet time, lying around in the sun or just a walk along the beach, this is a good place. Kenyans preference for Mombasa also means the beaches are not as crowded as they are further down the coast.

For the more adventurous and outdoorsy, this is the perfect place to be as well. The Watamu – Malindi coastline is a perfect hub for deep sea fishing and or even just sailing into the ocean, exciting activities which are offered by some resorts around here.