Dolphins & Whales Spotting in Kenya 2025

During their breeding season, both dolphins and whales visit the Kenyan coast to calve and nurse. It provides ample opportunities to see dolphins around Wasini Island. To get a closer look at these marine creatures, consider taking a boat tour. Enjoying these encounters ensures the safety and well-being of the animals.

Best Time

Dolphins and whales are best observed in Kenya from July to August during their breeding and nursing season. The peak months for spotting humpback whales include August to September and October to December, coinciding with their migratory patterns. These magnificent creatures can be seen up close, but it's essential to enjoy the experience responsibly to ensure their protection.

Key Viewing Locations

The best spots for dolphin and whale watching in Kenya are the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area and Watamu National Marine Park. Here, visitors can see the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, which typically form pods of 5 to 25 individuals, as well as the endangered Indian Ocean humpback dolphins on rare occasions. Wasini Island, accessible by dhow boat from Diani Beach or Shimoni, offers an ideal setting for observing these dolphins in a controlled and respectful manner amid its beautiful coral reefs.

Whale-Watching Tours

In Kenya, dolphin and whale watching tours generally cost between $40 and $100 per person, depending on the provider and included activities. Tours last about 3 to 5 hours and often feature boat rides, snorkeling, and meals. Booking a tour is straightforward, with numerous local operators available. It's advisable to reserve in advance, either online or on-site. Most tours include refreshments such as a light lunch or fresh fruit, along with snorkeling gear.​

Other Marine Animals

A boat tour around Wasini Island or Watamu Marine National Reserve is an exciting adventure that allows visitors to see various marine life. You can spot exotic creatures like sea turtles, barracudas, moray eels, and manta rays, as well as lots of colorful fish species.

Safety Tips

Swimming with dolphins in Kenya is discouraged to protect their natural habitat and reduce stress on these animals. It can be particularly risky during breeding season when dolphins may become aggressive. Observing dolphins from a respectful distance allows them to thrive undisturbed. For snorkeling and exploring coral reefs, it’s advisable to wear reef-safe sunscreen and bring a towel and swimsuit.

Photography Tips

Taking a great whale photo requires patience and quick reflexes. Watch for signs like diving birds, which often signal feeding whales. Focus on areas with bird activity, as the whale may surface suddenly. For shots of breaching or tail flukes, look for a whale arching its back—this usually means it's about to dive. Breaching is harder to predict, but if it happens once, it might happen again. Use a wide-angle lens for ocean scenery and a shorter lens for action shots, as it's easier to track the whale.