Tiwi Beach: Inside Secluded Africa-Shaped Pool in Kenya

Undated photo of tourists at the pool of Africa at Tiwi Beach in Kenya
Undated photo of tourists at the pool of Africa at Tiwi Beach in Kenya
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Kenya hosts numerous beaches lined with white sand and tall palm trees. These beaches attract millions of tourists every year.

While some are popular and often crowded, others are secluded and are known to the locals, plus a few adventurous travellers.

One of the hidden gems is Tiwi beach in Kwale County, home to a pool shaped like the African continent.

It is a site to behold, as the pool includes a representation of the island of Madagascar.

A photo of the pool of Africa at Tiwi beach in Kenya
A photo of the pool of Africa at Tiwi beach in Kenya
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"I have been to a number of amazing places, but I am still wondering why Pool of Africa has not made it to the list of wonders of the world," one traveller questioned.

The secluded pool is described as one of the magnificent wonders of the nation. It is visible in low tides when you can distinctly see the African map.

According to some residents, tourists go to the pool for therapy, and others see it as a sacred shrine.

Tourists visiting the area, are advised to ask for a guide for safety since it is far from the main road. They are also advised to wear beach shoes to avoid the numerous sea urchins. 

"The Tiwi Africa Pool is a miracle of nature, carved by the sea and the wind out of the coral reef," described Wildlife Kenya Safari.

Adding to the picturesque site is a cliff next to the pool where divers practice their swimming skills. 

Reportedly, you can swim through a cave from East Africa to Madagascar. While exploring the pool you will spot octopuses, starfish, and surgeon fish, among other marine creatures.

Aside from the mind-blowing pool, Tiwi beach is an hour away from the Shimba Hills National Reserve. Tourists are treated to sites of elephants, buffalos, leopards, sable antelope, bush tailed mongooses, among other animals.

Tiwi beach is also a perfect place for snorkeling and diving. This is made possible by the warm weather in the area.

Undated photo of the Pool of Africa at Tiwi beach, Kenya
Undated photo of the Pool of Africa at Tiwi beach, Kenya
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For accommodation, the beach offers a variety of hotels, resorts, and cottages where you can enjoy traditional cuisines.

The beach can be accessed by road from Nairobi, which takes about eight hours. Also, you can access it by taking a flight to Ukunda Airstrip and then connecting from Diani, which is 20 minutes away.

According to data from the Ministry of Tourism released in February 2023, nearly 1.5 million tourists arrived in Kenya for different reasons, with 36.6 per cent visiting for holidays.

A photo of the pool of Africa and the cave at Tiwi Beach in Kenya
A photo of the pool of Africa and the cave at Tiwi Beach in Kenya
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