When To Go · Destination Guide
Shimoni Wasini and Kisite
Shimoni dhow departures, Kisite coral reefs and a Wasini island lunch
When To Go · Destination Guide
Shimoni dhow departures, Kisite coral reefs and a Wasini island lunch
When to go
For Shimoni-to-Kisite marine excursions, November through March is the strongest general planning window, especially if boat comfort is the priority.
Best overall window
The four bands collectively cover Jan-Dec.
Outside that window
May often marks a coastal rain peak; operators describe May-June as rainy and windy. Water quality and boat departure may be variable.
Start with the overall answer, then switch only when scuba, freedive, snorkel, or topside timing changes the trip in a meaningful way.
The overall row stays visible so you can compare it against the currently selected scope.
| Scope | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | Overall - Jan: Best | Overall - Feb: Best | Overall - Mar: Best | Overall - Apr: Good | Overall - May: Tradeoffs | Overall - Jun: Tradeoffs | Overall - Jul: More variable | Overall - Aug: More variable | Overall - Sep: More variable | Overall - Oct: Good | Overall - Nov: Best | Overall - Dec: Best |
These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.
Resident dolphins: boat viewing only
Best for Scuba, Snorkel, Topside
Year-round
The IWC Kenya profile lists Indo-Pacific bottlenose and Indian Ocean humpback dolphins as year-round coastal residents around Kisite-Mpunguti; seeing them is never guaranteed.
Seasonal spinner dolphin possibility
Best for Snorkel, Topside, Scuba
Jan to Apr
IWC reports spinner dolphins as seasonally present in the southern marine-park region during January-April.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.