Local Ocean Conservation

Nature Parks & Sanctuaries in Kilifi

Local Ocean Conservation: Saving the Ocean

Local Ocean Conservation is a private, not-for-profit organization dedicatedly committed to the protection of Kenya’s marine environment by using practical conservation, community involvement, innovations, education, research and campaigns to supplement the goal of sustainable use of Kenya’s marine resources. Watamu Turtle Watch, within Watamu Marine National Park, was their flagship programme. It was started by local residents in 1997 to protect nesting sea turtles.

Today, Local Ocean Conservation is an invaluable conservation project, alongside Diani Turtle Watch, Bycatch release, Beach Profiling and the Rehabilitation Centre for sick and injured sea turtles. It’s also actively involved in mangrove restoration, having planted and monitored over 230,000 mangrove seeds and seedlings, and has its own mangrove nursery on site. Usually, planting efforts are done together with the local community to promote the sagacity of ownership and perpetuity.

Education about the importance of mangrove ecosystems complements these restoration activities. Through their popular Eco Visitor Programme, travellers get the opportunity to have a hands-on experience in all aspects of their work by participating in day-to-day operations, contributing directly to the conservation efforts as well as enjoying unique local experiences created for visitors. These awareness programs are conducted to raise the importance of biodiversity.

Tours run every hour, on the hour during the operation times, Monday to Friday from 9.30am-12.30pm, 2.30pm-4.00pm, and Saturday from 9.30am-12.00pm. Entry fee is Kes 300 per person, which goes towards conservation and general maintenance of the area. The focus is on protecting marine habitats, conserving species like sea turtles and coral reefs, and promoting sustainable practices to ensure the long-term health and resilience of Watamu’s marine environment.


Around Kenya are to be found a hatful of delightful nature parks and sanctuaries, many of these being community initiatives to protect wildlife in their natural habitats. Fairly small in comparison to the national parks and reserves, they offer a more intimate exposure to the wild, to fully appreciate the local flora and fauna.


Touring Kilifi County offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty, lovely beaches, cultural richness, natural wonders, and fascinating ancient ruins. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, historical sites, or vibrant cultural experiences – or a combination, Kilifi promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.

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For the greater part of the year, the climate along the coastal plain is pleasurable, though humid. Temperature ranges between 21C and 30C along the coast, and between 30C and 34C further inland.

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