subject: Watamu Marine National Park A Stunning Nature Adventure [print this page] Established in 1968, the Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve is a part of the larger Watamu National Park and is one of the finest conservation areas in Kenya. Situated a mere 140 kilometres from Mombasa on the northern coast of Kenya, this park with its diverse marine life, various conservation programs and the touch of beauty that nature has added to it, makes the park a frequent visit among tourists.
The main coral reef which is merely 300 metres from the coasts provides abundant nutrition for fish as well as a breeding ground, protection from strong currents and sharks found in deeper water and so is the backbone of the marine reserve. 110 different species of soft and hard coral make up this magnificent coral and is home to 600 species of fish and numerous crustaceans, mollusks and other colourful invertebrates. Away from the main reef is "the Larder" where shoals of pickhandled barracuda are encountered, while the Pothole and the Turtle Reef are good places to go snorkelling or scuba diving. Put on your snorkelling gear and explore the wonders of this underwater world of brilliantly clad exotic fish or take a ride on a glass-bottom boat if you would rather stay dry, but still enjoy the crazy patterns and colour of these underwater creatures.
The Minda Creek is a rich mangrove forest and is ideal for bird watching. It is also the place where young corals are formed before being carried away by the currents to join the larger reef, while the forest roots are rich in crabs, oysters, prawn and other crustaceans. During low tide one may also visit the Tewa Caves which are partly underwater and where Giant Groupers are present as well as hundreds of other tropical fish.
The park is also a turtle conservatory and a breeding ground. Green, Olive Ridley and Hawksbill turtles nest in Watamu while the Leatherback turtles pass it on their way during migration. Various programs have been implemented by the park staff to protect turtles from the local fishermen and provide monitory incentive for releasing them into the wild if caught. Such programs and the national eco system have been key elements for the park to be a part of the UN's World Biosphere Reserve.
The hotels along this stretch such as the Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa are also benefactors of the rich marine life and beauty of the park. Stay at a Kenya Hotel and travel the land rich in wildlife. A Mombasa Hotel is ideal for those on business visits but hoping for some leisure time as well.
