If you’re a bird lover, then Watamu is a must-visit destination for you. With its diverse ecosystems, Watamu offers an incredible array of bird species that you can observe and admire. From the rare and endangered species to the common ones, there is always something unique to discover. Here is a guide to some of the best bird-watching spots near our GK Palms resort.
- Arabuko Sokoke Forest
Located just a few kilometers from Watamu, the Arabuko Sokoke Forest is a must-visit destination for bird watchers. This 420 square kilometers of forest is home to over 260 species of birds, including the Sokoke Scops Owl, Amani Sunbird, and Clarke’s weaver, among others. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the birds are most active.
- Mida Creek
Mida Creek is a shallow estuary that provides an excellent habitat for water birds. During low tide, the creek forms a mudflat, which attracts a variety of waders, including the Crab Plover, Sanderling, and the Grey Plover. The creek is also home to the Mangrove Kingfisher and the African Fish Eagle.
- Gede Ruins
The Gede Ruins is not only a historic site but also a bird watcher’s paradise. The ruins are surrounded by a forest that provides an excellent habitat for forest birds. Here, you can spot the African Pygmy Kingfisher, Green-backed Camaroptera, and Black-bellied Starling.
- Sabaki River Mouth
Located just a few kilometers from Watamu, Sabaki River Mouth is one of the best spots for bird watching in the area. The river mouth provides a habitat for a variety of water birds, including the Greater Sand Plover, African Skimmer, and the Malindi Pipit.
- Manguo Pond
Manguo Pond is a small pond located near Watamu town. Despite its small size, the pond attracts a wide variety of birds, including the Little Bittern, Purple Gallinule, and African Jacana.
If you’re planning to visit Watamu and are interested in bird watching, our GK Palms resort can arrange for a birding tour to any of these spots with reputable tour guides. Don’t forget to carry your binoculars and camera to capture these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.
