Diani Beach, Kenya: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Diani Beach, Kenya? If you're planning to go to Diani Beach, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Diani Beach, Kenya

Based on the climate and weather in Diani Beach, Kenya, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Diani Beach, Kenya

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Diani Beach, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Diani Beach, Kenya by month

January

January for Diani Beach is constantly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

February

February in this region can be very hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

March

March in this region is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

April

In April, Diani Beach is really hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Diani Beach, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

May

In May, Diani Beach can be very hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Diani Beach, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

June

June for Diani Beach is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

July

In July, Diani Beach is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Diani Beach, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

August

Traveling to Diani Beach in August, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

September

If you go to Diani Beach in September, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

October

In October, Diani Beach is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and about a third of the time jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Diani Beach, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

November

If you are traveling to Diani Beach in November, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

December

December in this region is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Diani Beach may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

Going to Komboza Cave? You'll need:

What to do in Diani Beach, Kenya

Diani Beach in Kenya is a popular tourist destination, known for its palm-lined beaches, turquoise waters, and serene atmosphere. Located on the southern coast of Kenya, Diani Beach is a little slice of paradise that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Diani Beach has got you covered. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you should keep in mind when visiting Diani Beach.

1. Diani Beach

One of the main attractions of Diani Beach is, unsurprisingly, the beach itself. The beach spans over 25 kilometers and is dotted with lush greenery, beachside restaurants, and resorts. At Diani Beach, you can spend hours lounging in the sun, taking a dip in the ocean, or trying out different water sports like snorkeling or scuba diving.

2. Shimba Hills National Reserve

If you want to explore the wilderness of Kenya, Shimba Hills National Reserve is the perfect destination. Located only a short drive away from Diani Beach, Shimba Hills is home to a diverse range of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and rare forest antelopes. The reserve is also known for its stunning views of the Indian Ocean and a picturesque waterfall.

3. Colobus Conservation

Colobus Conservation is a non-profit organization that works to protect and rehabilitate primates like the endangered Colobus monkey. Visitors to Colobus Conservation can take part in guided tours and observe these amazing creatures up close. You can also learn about the conservation efforts and contribute to the organization's mission by adopting a monkey or volunteering.

4. Mombasa Marine National Park

Mombasa Marine National Park is a protected area that is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and vibrant corals. Visitors can go on snorkeling or diving trips to explore the park's underwater world or go on a glass-bottom boat ride to observe the marine life from above.

5. Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus is a historic monument that was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. The fort was strategically located to protect the Kenyan coast from invaders and has since served as a prison, barracks, and museum. Visitors can explore the fort's ruins and view exhibits that showcase the region's history.

These are just some of the top tourist attractions in Diani Beach, Kenya. With its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural history, and friendly locals, Diani Beach is a destination that should be on everyone's travel bucket list. So why wait? Book your trip to Diani Beach today and start exploring all that this amazing destination has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Kesennuma, Japan, Gironde, France, Tanohata, Japan, Heathcote, Victoria, Australia, Marakei, Kiribati, Florida, Uruguay, Tadachi, Japan, Litchfield Hills, Connecticut, United States of America, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Canada, Calascibetta, Italy, and Guelma, Algeria.