Watamu Marine National Park, Kenya: A Brief History, Amazing Facts and Things to Do
Located in the Indian Ocean along the Kenyan coast, Watamu Marine National Park is a stunningly beautiful and unique marine park. Established in 1968, it is one of the oldest marine parks in the world and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves. Watamu Marine National Park is also a popular destination for tourists, offering a range of activities and attractions.
History
Watamu Marine National Park was established in 1968 as a protected area for the preservation of the marine environment. The park covers an area of approximately 20 square kilometers and is located along the Kenyan coast of the Indian Ocean. The park was initially established to protect the coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests in the area, which are home to a wide variety of marine life.
In the early 1980s, the Kenyan government began to invest in the development of the park, which included the construction of a number of tourist facilities. This has allowed the park to become a popular destination for tourists, who can enjoy a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and bird watching.
Amazing Facts
Watamu Marine National Park is home to a wide variety of marine life, including over 500 species of fish, more than 200 species of coral, and over 400 species of mollusks. The park is also home to a number of endangered species, such as the dugong, hawksbill turtle, and green turtle.
The park also boasts a wide variety of bird species, with over 300 species having been recorded in the park. Birdwatchers can spot species such as the African skimmer, roseate tern, and the white-bellied go-away bird.
The park is also home to a number of unique and interesting habitats, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. These habitats provide a safe and secure environment for a variety of marine life, including fish, turtles, and other marine creatures.
Things to Do
Watamu Marine National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, as visitors can explore the coral reefs and observe a variety of marine life. Bird watching is also popular, as visitors can spot a range of species in the park.
The park also offers visitors the chance to take part in educational and conservation activities. Visitors can learn about the marine environment and the importance of conservation, as well as take part in activities such as beach clean-ups and coral reef monitoring.
Finally, visitors can also enjoy a range of other activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The park also has a number of restaurants and bars, offering visitors the chance to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink.
Watamu Marine National Park is an amazing destination for visitors looking to explore the Kenyan coast and observe the stunning marine life. With its unique habitats, wide variety of marine life, and range of activities, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Kenyan coast.