Our Story
About Explore Watamu Tours
Built on the coast we call home, for travellers who want it explored properly.
How We Started
A Coastline We've Called Home for Generations
Explore Watamu Tours grew out of a simple frustration: too many visitors to this coast were being shuttled through generic, disconnected excursions by operators with no real stake in Watamu itself. We started as a two-person boat operation running snorkel trips into the Marine Park; today we run a full slate of marine, safari and cultural experiences — still guided exclusively by people who were born, raised, and continue to live along this coastline.
Our philosophy hasn't changed since day one: fewer, better-run experiences over a large generic catalogue; real local knowledge over scripted commentary; and a genuine stake in protecting the reef, forest and heritage sites that make this coast worth visiting at all.
What We Stand For
Our Values
Local First
Every guide, skipper and driver we work with is from this coast — not a subcontractor parachuted in for the season.
Conservation-Minded
Marine park levies, reef-safe practice and community conservancy fees are built into every itinerary, not tacked on.
Honest Guiding
We tell you what a day realistically looks like — including what wildlife sightings we can and can't guarantee.
Tailored, Not Templated
Every itinerary on this site is a starting point — we adjust pace, accommodation and route to fit you.
Who You'll Travel With
The People Behind Your Journey
A small, specialised team rather than a large anonymous fleet — you'll typically meet the same core guides across every part of your trip.
Founder & Head Guide
Safari & OperationsTwo decades reading the Tsavo and Amboseli bush, and the steady hand behind every itinerary we design.
Marine Safari Captain
Reef & Boat OperationsCertified skipper and lifelong Watamu sailor who knows every reef, sandbank and tide table by heart.
Cultural Heritage Specialist
Gede, Marafa & MalindiTrained in Swahili coastal history, bringing Gede's ruins and Marafa's legends to life for every guest.
Guest Experience Manager
Bookings & LogisticsYour first point of contact — coordinating transfers, timings and any special requests end-to-end.
How Booking Works
From Enquiry to Unforgettable, in Four Steps
Tell Us Your Plans
Share your travel dates, interests and group size via our contact form or WhatsApp.
Receive a Tailored Itinerary
We reply within hours with a proposed itinerary and clear, all-in pricing.
Confirm With a Deposit
A simple deposit secures your dates; balance is due before or on the day of travel.
Enjoy the Experience
We handle every transfer, permit and logistic — you just show up ready for the adventure.