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Malindi

 Malindi has remained an important Swahili settlement since the 14th century and once rivaled Mombasa for dominance in this part of East Africa. Malindi has traditionally been a friendly port city for foreign powers. In 1414, the King of Milindi initiated diplomatic relations with China during the voyages of the explorer Zheng He. The great Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, was welcomed by Malindi authorities in 1498. The following year East Africa’s doors to Europe opened officially as the Portuguese established a trading post.
Today Malindi is in the midst of a tourist boom primarily due to its spectacular beaches. Although tourism is an important industry, Malindi enjoys a strong African center where commerce and business outside the tourist industry thrive. As a resort town, Malindi features the usual array of hotels, restaurants, and discos. The beaches are excellent (and relatively free from seaweed) and snorkeling opportunities are abundant. The Malindi Marine National Park, a 213 sq km reserve, together with the Watumu Park jointly comprise a protected biosphere reserve. Glass bottom boats can be hired at most hotels for the trip out to the coral reefs. The sights are spectacular although tourist wear and tear is taking its toll as errant flippers and zealous shell collectors have left their mark on the natural beauty. During the rainy season, silt washes in from the Galana River limiting visibility severely. Malindi also serves as one of Kenya’s primary centers for deep-sea fishing with trips organized through most resorts.
As an Islamic stronghold, Malindi is home to twelve mosques, the largest of which is Juma’a Mosque in the heart of the old town. Malindi also features relics from its Portuguese inhabitants dating back to the 16th century. A tiny whitewashed chapel can be found at the southern end of town which is thought to have been the first Christian church in East Africa. The original Vasco Da Gama cross sits at the entrance to the bay and commemorates the explorer’s visit to Malindi. The ruins at Gedi also highlight the rich cultural history that characterizes the northern coastal region. Gedi was a thriving city state from the 13th to the early 17th centuries, although the exact history of the region is somewhat sketchy. Relics found indicate that it was once a trading port of some wealth. Ruins include tombs, a mosque, numerous houses, and remains of a palace. The site is particularly well preserved and is recognized as a primary historical monument in the coastal region.

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