Funzi Island

Funzi Island sits in a maze of mangrove creeks and sandbars on the far south coast, a less visited corner than Diani or Wasini. A day trip here is about slow exploration: boat rides through channels, time on a sandbank, a visit to a village, snorkeling or swimming, and a seafood lunch. It is a good option if you want a quieter, more local feel than the main marine park trips, and it suits people who enjoy birdwatching, photography and unhurried days.

Excursions usually start with a pickup from Diani and a drive south, followed by a boat ride from a small landing. Guides take you through mangrove creeks, where you may see herons, kingfishers and, depending on tides, crabs and small fish. The boat then heads to a sandbank or a sheltered beach for swimming and snorkeling, and on to the island for a walk and lunch of fresh fish, prawns or crab with rice and vegetables. Some trips include time with local community members, who explain fishing methods, seaweed farming and daily life.

The tide dictates the schedule. Boats can only reach some areas at high tide, and sandbanks appear and disappear through the day, so operators plan departures carefully. Bring a rash vest, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, towel, water and a dry bag. Footwear that can get wet is useful. Insect repellent helps in the mangroves, and a camera with a good zoom suits the birdlife. Tell the operator about dietary needs, particularly if you do not eat seafood, so lunch can be arranged.

Funzi is an alternative to the busier Kisite and Wasini day, not a replacement for it: you will see fewer dolphins and less coral, but more mangrove scenery and a quieter atmosphere. Many visitors do one of each over a week on the south coast. The trip suits families because the water is calm and the pace is relaxed, but it is a long day with transfers, so bring snacks for children. Confirm what is included, including lunch and any community or park fees, and book ahead in the busiest weeks.

To make the day easier, check what the tour covers and what it does not. Ask whether snorkel gear, towels, drinks and community fees are included, and whether there is shade at the sandbank. Bring a small bag of snacks for children and a refillable water bottle, as drinks on remote stops are limited.

Plan to wear a hat and long-sleeved sun shirt, because the boat and sandbanks offer little shade. A good guide can explain how mangroves filter water, shelter young fish and protect the coast from erosion, which adds depth to what might otherwise look like a simple scenic cruise.

Afterwards, a quiet evening on the beach is the best way to digest a satisfying, slow day on the water. Finally, leave space in your plans for the unexpected, since tides, weather and wildlife may change the route, and the most memorable moment of the day is often an unplanned stop. It is also a sensible rainy-season alternative to longer drives, because the mangrove scenery works well under soft light, although you should always check forecasts and tide times with the operator before you commit.