Diani Beach is famous for its stunning white sands and turquoise waters, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Kenya’s diverse landscapes and cultures. While lounging on the beach is wonderful, the real treats are the nearby excursions that reveal the region’s natural beauty and vibrant history. We particularly love trips that combine nature and culture, like the 1 Day Shimba Hills starting from Diani Beach—a quick trip into a lush rainforest—and the Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Cultural Tour of Mombasa, which offers a deep dive into Swahili and Arab influences. Both tours are well-organized and bring you face-to-face with Kenya’s rich environment and history, all without the hassle of organizing transportation yourself.
Below, we share the best tours in Diani Beach, emphasizing what makes each unique and who they would suit best. Whether you’re after wildlife, waterfalls, or cultural insights, this list will help you pick the perfect day trip.
1. 1 Day Shimba Hills starting from Diani Beach
At number one, this tour whisks you out of the busy Diani Beach area and into the tranquil, green embrace of Shimba Hills National Reserve. For around $248 per person, you’ll enjoy a full day exploring tropical rainforest, grasslands, and Sheldrick Falls. The tour includes round-trip transfers from your Diani Beach accommodation, making it a stress-free way to experience Kenya’s wildlife and scenery.
What makes this trip stand out is its intimate size — only up to six travelers — which ensures you get personalized attention and plenty of chances to spot antelope, tropical birds, and other wildlife. The big highlight is hiking to Sheldrick Falls, a scenic spot where you can choose to take a refreshing dip. After the hike, you’ll relax with a delicious lunch at the Shimba Green Lodge, which offers views that are hard to beat. The reserve’s mix of lush rainforest and grasslands makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers wanting a gentle, active day.
This tour is perfect for travelers interested in Kenya’s rainforest ecosystems and those who enjoy short, well-organized excursions. The price may seem high, but with included transfers and a personalized experience, it offers excellent value. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Kenya’s wild side, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A compact, scenic day that combines wildlife, waterfalls, and comfortable logistics — ideal for nature enthusiasts wanting an easy escape from Diani.
2. Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Cultural Tour of Mombasa from Diani
The second tour on our list is a 7-hour journey into the history and culture of Mombasa, offered at $140 per person. For this price, you get a comprehensive snapshot of Kenya’s coast, including visits to the Swahili Old Town, Fort Jesus, and the Old Port. The tour starts early, around 7:00 am, with pickup from your Diani Beach hotel, and includes stops at key historical sites and markets.
A highlight is the visit to Akamba Village, the largest wood market in East Africa, where over 3,500 woodcarvers showcase their craft. You’ll see handmade wood products, explore the Hindu temple, and walk the historic Old Port. The tour offers a lively, colorful window into Arab and Swahili cultures, with plenty of opportunities to buy unique souvenirs. The guide shares insights into the region’s history, blending stories of trade, colonialism, and local traditions.
Although reviews are limited, those who have taken this tour appreciate the well-paced schedule and the chance to see Mombasa’s main sights in a single day. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time who want a cultural and historical overview without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: A lively, informative day that appeals to history buffs and culture seekers eager to explore Kenya’s coastal heritage.
How to Choose Between These Diani Beach Tours
Deciding between a day immersed in nature at Shimba Hills or exploring Mombasa’s vibrant culture depends on your interests and pace. If wildlife, waterfalls, and a lush rainforest sound appealing, the Shimba Hills tour offers a peaceful escape into Kenya’s natural environment. Meanwhile, if you’re curious about Swahili traditions, colonial architecture, and local markets, the Mombasa cultural tour provides a quick but comprehensive cultural fix.
Think about your budget and physical activity level: The Shimba Hills trip involves some light hiking, while the Mombasa tour is more about walking and sightseeing. Both tours include transportation, so consider how much time you’d prefer to spend in transit versus exploring.
Booking early is advisable for these popular experiences, especially during peak seasons. Check the availability of pickups from your hotel and whether the tour includes options like lunch or specific sights you wish to prioritize.
Final Thoughts
Diani Beach offers more than just relaxing on the sand — it’s a perfect gateway to Kenya’s diverse landscapes and history. For wildlife lovers, the Shimba Hills day trip provides an authentic adventure into rainforest and grassland ecosystems. If cultural insights are more your style, the Mombasa sightseeing tour opens up Kenya’s coastal story with colorful markets and historic sites.
Both tours are well-regarded and accessible, making them great choices whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. If your schedule allows, consider combining a nature day with a cultural exploration to get a well-rounded experience of this vibrant region. And remember, booking early helps secure your spot for these memorable outings.
