PILLI PIPA Dhow’s snorkeling tour to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park offers an immersive eco-adventure. Explore the vibrant coral reefs guided by experienced staff, with included transportation, equipment, and lunch. While physical requirements may limit some, the tour provides a unique opportunity to discover a protected marine environment. With positive reviews and a ‘Badge of Excellence,’ the excursion promises an unforgettable experience. What awaits beneath the waves of this remarkable park?
Key Points
- Full-day snorkeling tour on a traditional dhow sailboat to explore the vibrant coral reefs of Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park
- Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, park fees, snorkeling equipment, seafood lunch, and experienced marine guides
- Suitable for moderate physical fitness levels, not recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance
- Optional 40 USD add-on for certified divers, with over 190 positive reviews
Overview of the Excursion
On this full-day snorkeling tour, visitors embark on a peaceful cruise by traditional dhow sailboat to explore the vibrant coral reefs of Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve.
Sailing from the mainland to the marine park is an eco-friendly way to experience this protected area.
Guests will stop to snorkel at two lively sites along the park’s coral reef, where they can observe the diverse marine life.
Throughout the journey, knowledgeable guides and instructors will provide support and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, park fees, snorkeling equipment, and a delicious seafood lunch, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the wonders of Kenya’s coastal ecosystem.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the snorkeling experience, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, all applicable taxes and fees, and the use of high-quality snorkeling equipment.
Plus, guests will enjoy a buffet-style seafood lunch with vegetarian and chicken options available. The package also covers the national park fees, morning tea and snacks, and cold soft drinks and water.
Experienced marine guides and snorkeling/diving instructors will accompany the group, ensuring a safe and informative experience.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or those seeking an extremely strenuous activity. The maximum group size is 40 participants.
Restrictions and Requirements
The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and participants need a moderate level of physical fitness. Pickup is not available from Mombasa or North Coast hotels, but special arrangements may be made. The group size is limited to a maximum of 40 travelers.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Mobility | No wheelchairs, not recommended for back issues or medical conditions |
| Age | Children must be accompanied by an adult |
| Fitness | Moderate physical fitness required |
| Pickup | Special arrangements needed for Mombasa or North Coast hotels |
| Group Size | Maximum of 40 travelers |
Cancellation and Changes Policy
Customers can cancel their snorkeling tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but any changes or cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled start time won’t be accepted.
This strict cancellation policy ensures the tour operator can properly plan and prepare for each excursion.
However, if the tour is canceled due to poor weather conditions, customers will be offered the choice of rescheduling for a different date or receiving a full refund.
This flexibility helps ensure customers get the most out of their snorkeling experience, even if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.
Additional Activities and Information
For certified divers, an optional add-on of 40 USD allows them to enjoy diving at the park in addition to the snorkeling activities. Confirmation of dive certification is required for those wishing to partake in the diving component.
The tour also comes with a ‘Badge of Excellence‘ recognition, attesting to its quality based on 193 positive reviews from previous participants.
Guests should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The tour is unable to pick up from Mombasa or North Coast hotels, but can accommodate up to 40 travelers per departure.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are available from Diani, Msambweni or Tiwi.
This convenient service ensures a hassle-free start and end to your Kisite Marine Park snorkeling adventure.
The tour operator will pick you up from your hotel in one of these coastal towns and transport you to the departure point.
After an unforgettable day of exploring the park’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life, you’ll be dropped back off at your accommodation.
This is a great option for travelers who don’t want to worry about arranging their own transportation. Just sit back, relax, and let the experts handle the logistics.
Duration and Timing
The full-day Kisite Marine Park snorkeling tour departs early in the morning, providing ample time to sail to the protected marine park and explore its vibrant underwater world.
The journey to the park takes around 1.5 hours, allowing guests to admire the scenic coastline along the way.
Once at the park, travelers have 2-3 hours to snorkel at two different sites, marveling at the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
After the snorkeling activities, guests enjoy a delicious seafood lunch before heading back to the mainland, typically arriving at their hotels around 4-5 PM.
The full-day experience ensures ample time to fully immerse in the wonders of the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.
Reviews and Ratings
With 193 reviews, the tour to Kisite Marine Park has earned a Badge of Excellence, reflecting travelers’ enthusiasm for the experience.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s well-organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to explore the park’s vibrant coral reefs.
Many note the scenic sailing journey to the marine park as a highlight, describing it as a peaceful, eco-friendly way to experience the protected area.
Snorkelers rave about the abundance of marine life and the clarity of the water, while those who opt for the additional diving add-on express delight at the sites they were able to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, guests can bring their own snorkeling equipment. However, the tour also provides snorkeling equipment for hire, so guests don’t need to bring their own if they prefer to use the provided gear.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has a minimum age requirement – children must be accompanied by an adult. However, there are no specific age restrictions, as the tour is open to all ages as long as they meet the supervision requirement.
Can I Pay in a Different Currency Besides Kenyan Shillings?
Yes, travelers can typically pay in major foreign currencies like US dollars, euros, or British pounds, in addition to Kenyan shillings. The tour operator may have a preferred currency, so it’s best to check with them beforehand.
Is There a Storage Facility to Keep My Belongings?
The tour provides storage space on the boat where travelers can securely store their belongings while snorkeling. This allows them to enjoy the activity without worrying about their personal items.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour operator provides a buffet-style seafood lunch, as well as morning tea, snacks, cold soft drinks, and water, which are included in the tour price.
Recap
The PILLI PIPA Dhow’s full-day snorkeling tour offers an eco-friendly way to explore the vibrant coral reefs of Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.
With experienced guides, a seafood lunch, and positive reviews, it’s an excellent opportunity to discover the protected marine environment, though it requires moderate physical fitness and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Certified divers can also add an optional activity to the tour.
