We are located on Diani Beach on Kenya’s South Coast, 35 km from Mombasa International Airport and 10 minutes from Ukunda Airport with daily flights to and from Nairobi. We arrange transfers upon request.
Flights
Mombasa’s Moi International Airport can be reached by direct flight from many European airports in 7 to 9 hours. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Mombasa and Nairobi.
Only 10 minutes by car from Waterlovers is Ukunda airport with daily flights to and from Nairobi and other destinations. Jambojet operates to Kenyatta International airport while Safarilink, Mombasa Air Safari, Skyward Express and others operate out of Wilson Domestic airport. Some of these domestic companies have service directly to Masai Mara from Diani. There is also the option to charter a plane.
Documents
As of January 1st 2024, all visitors must obtain a Kenya electronic travel authorization (eTA). Visitors can apply for the eTA via www.etakenya.go.ke and pay a processing fee of USD $30. The eTA applications for Kenya should be submitted at least 3 days prior to travel to ensure adequate time for authorisation, however, travellers can submit their applications as early as 3 months prior to travel. https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en
As of May 2023, Kenya no longer requires Covid Testing for entry. More info: https://www.kcaa.or.ke/covid-19/covid-19-travel-requirements
Time Zone
Kenya is +2 hours from GMT, only +1 hour from Continental Europe in summertime and +2 in winter time (day-light savings).
Vaccinations and Medical Advice:
No compulsory vaccinations are required for your entry visa. The prophylaxis against malaria is optional but advisable especially if you are planning on going on safari in one of Kenya’s National Parks. On location, we have a European standard private hospital just minutes away from WaterLovers, which provides 24/7 medical services all year round, in case you need medical attention during your stay in Diani.
Climate
Kenya benefits from the tropical climate at the coast and temperate climate inland. Temperatures at the coast range between a pleasant 25°C – 30°C at day and at night. The day and night temperatures in the National Parks can vary noticeably. Even during the hottest months, the temperature is evened out by the constant trade winds. There are two wet seasons per year, the long rainy season lasts from May to June and the short rainy season is usually in the second half of November. The driest and hottest months of the year are January and February.
Clothing
Sun glasses, a sunhat and protective sun lotion are useful in all coastal regions. On safari, we highly recommend that you dress in practical outdoor clothes, one warm set for the chillier nights and early morning game drives, a comfortable pair of closed shoes and mosquito repellent.
Currency
The Kenyan currency is called Kenyan Shilling; one Euro is equal to about 140 shillings as of March 2023. One USD is equal to about 130. Major credit cards are accepted everywhere and it is possible to change Euros and Dollars at the bank in walking distance from Waterlovers. ATMs for foreign banks or credit cards are also available.
Tips
Tipping staff and tourist guides is standard in Kenya however the amount is up to your own discretion.
Shopping
Local handicrafts are abundant: statues and wood masks, naïf paintings, cotton “batik” and “kikoy” cloths, ethnic jewellery and typical Massai spears and shields.
Language
The official languages are English and Swahili.
Voltage
Electric power is 220 Volt with the UK-style 3 exit sockets with square plugs. Every kind of electric device can be used with the simple adaptor available in your room.
Communication
- Telephone – Although most European mobile phones are able to establish a connection in Kenya, calls can easily become exorbitantly expensive due to roaming charges. Waterlovers offers a mobile phone with Kenyan SIM card to use during your stay. The international code for Kenya is +254.
- Internet – Waterlovers provides a complimentary WiFi connection.
- Our suites and villas are equipped with bluetooth speakers for your enjoyment.
reservationswaterlovers@gmail.com
Reservations: +254 115104932
Hotel Operations: +254 706 943216
