If you are looking for a real change from Mexico or Hawaii, have a look at a Kenya safari with a beach option!! It may not be as expensive as you first think.. E-mail us your request today: info@viptravel.ca

"Capture the thrill of the chase on safari, or relax on Mombasa’s powder-white beaches by the Indian Ocean.”

Say the words ‘national park’ coupled with Kenya and instantly the images are of savannahs roamed by lions. In fact, seven of Kenya’s national parks are under water. For years Kenya’s coast has been a trophy for those whose quest was to discover big beaches lapped by the tepid waters of tropical oceans. Now increasingly it is being recognised as having another dimension, with scenery and wildlife to match the great game reserves inland.

Kenya has six marine parks and reserves along its coastline:
Watamu, Malindi, Kisite, Mpunguti, Mombasa and Klunga. The warm water temperatures, salinity and relatively shallow depths make reefs along the Kenyan coast rich in tropical fish and exotic corals. Kenya’s varied underwater terrain gives divers and snorkellers of all levels the opportunity to discover hidden depths.

Mombasa Town is built on an island opposite a convenient gap in the barrier reef and is linked to the mainland by bridges and a ferry in the south. The old town near the medieval Fort Jesus still has a distinctly Arabian feel, with sellers of spices, silk and gold.

In places like Diani, south of Mombasa, the coast is still developing. Most of the new hotels are sensitive to the size and appearance of the buildings around them. They are going up in an age when respect is paid to traditional building styles and materials.

Behind the coast are the enormous expanses of the two Tsavo game parks. At Shimba Hills, a National Reserve which has both rainforest and grassland, the Sable antelope is unique. If all that seems rich fare for holiday making, it is: Kenya claims to be one of only two places in the world where snorkelling and safaris can be combined. Exotic wildlife, coral gardens, beaches encased by shallow waters – Kenya’s natural grace is limitless.