Coast Expedition II - Swahili Shores 2025

Northern Tanzania - View on map
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  • Dec 22, 2025 - Jan 2, 2026
  • Pickup: Meeting and Departure Point Outside Supreme Court, City Hall, CBD
Description

Swahili Shores Expedition

12-Day Beach Camping Odyssey | Kenya & Tanzania

12 Days. 2 Countries. 1 Unforgettable Coast.

Embark on Mara Nomads' ultimate coastal escape: 12 days of self-drive beach camping along the pristine Indian Ocean shores of Kenya and Tanzania. From the laid-back vibes of Kenyan Beach camping to the UNESCO World Heritage towns of Tanzania, this is the coast expedition that trades highways for hidden beaches, resorts for campfires, and tourist crowds for authentic Swahili culture. This isn't just a beach trip. It's a coastal pilgrimage.


Why Swahili Shores?

 

12 Days of Pure Coastal Bliss: Camp on private beachfront sites, and direct ocean access. No hotels. No crowds. Just you, your tent, and the sound of waves.

 

Cross-Border Adventure: Experience two countries in one epic journey. Cross the Lunga Lunga border into Tanzania, exploring the untouched northern coast that few travelers ever see.

 

UNESCO World Heritage History: Walk through Tanzania's ancient German colonial buildings, Swahili ruins, and slave trade sites. Snorkel at Marine Reserves and protected coral islands teeming with turtles and dolphins.

 

Traditional Dhow Cruises: Sail sunset dhow cruises on traditional Arab boats, just as traders have done for centuries along this historic Swahili coast.

 

The Coast Less Traveled: Skip Mombasa's tourist traps. This route takes you through Kenya's quiet beaches and Tanzania's fishing villages—authentic coastal Kenya and Tanzania at their finest.

 

Self-Drive Freedom: Bring your 4x4 and set your own pace. Convoy with fellow Mara Nomads, but enjoy the flexibility of self-drive camping—no tour buses, no rigid schedules.

 


 

Expedition Highlights

 

BEACH, KENYA (3 Nights)

 

  • Private beachfront camping at Twiga Lodge
  • Colobus monkey conservation visits
  • Swahili village cultural walks
  • Snorkeling in tidal pools
  • Beachside sundowners under palm trees

 

BEACH, TANZANIA (5 Nights)

 

  • UNESCO Tanzania's Historic Town walking tour (13th-century Swahili & German colonial sites)
  • Marine Reserve full-day snorkeling (sea turtles, dolphins, pristine coral)
  • Sunset dhow sailing on traditional Arab boats
  • Mangrove kayaking (crocodiles, hippos, kingfishers)
  • Empty beaches, fresh seafood BBQs, starlit campfires

 

THE JOURNEY:

 

  • Total Distance: 1,650 km round-trip from Nairobi
  • Border Crossing: Lunga Lunga (Kenya-Tanzania) - efficient One-Stop Border Post
  • Driving: Minimal road time, maximum beach time (67% of trip is relaxation!)
  • Return Strategy: Our Tanzania destination is only 3.5 hours from Kenya border—easy dash back if needed

 


 

What Makes This Different from Coast Expedition I?

 

Coast Expedition I (2024) Swahili Shores (Coast II, 2025)
9 days, 8 Kenyan counties 12 days, 2 countries
2,000 km, 70% off-road 1,650 km, focus on relaxation
National parks focus (Tsavo, Shimba, Amboseli) Beach camping + UNESCO heritage
High-intensity adventure Laid-back coastal escape

 

Swahili Shores is for those who want to UNWIND, not just EXPLORE.

 


 

Who Is This For?

 

Families: Kid-friendly beaches, safe snorkeling, cultural learning (UNESCO sites)
Couples: Romantic dhow sunsets, beach campfires, secluded coves
Solo Overlanders: Join the Nomad convoy, make lifelong friends
First-Time Tanzania Travelers: Easiest, safest route into Tanzania (northern coast)
4x4 Enthusiasts: Self-drive freedom with convoy support

 

NOT for: Adrenaline junkies seeking extreme off-road (try Desert Run instead!)

 


 

Expedition Logistics

 

📅 DATES: [Insert Dates - e.g., August 16-27, 2025 OR December 20-31, 2025]

 

💰 COST:

 

  • Registration Fee: Kes 12,000/adult, Kes 5,500/child (4-12 yrs)
  • What's Included: All campsite bookings, border logistics support, excursion coordination, 24/7 convoy support, pre-departure briefing
  • What's NOT Included: Camping fees, fuel, meals, drinks, optional activities

 

🚗 VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS:

 

  • 4x4 and AWD vehicles highly recommended (for beach tracks)
  • AWD acceptable for paved portions (consult Mara Nomads first)
  • Must carry: Fire extinguisher (1kg), 2 warning triangles, spare tire, first aid kit

 

🛂 BORDER REQUIREMENTS:

 

  • Kenyan passport OR Temporary Travel Permit (TP) from eCitizen (Kes 1,050)
  • Vehicle logbook (original or notarized copy)
  • Comesa Insurance
  • Yellow Fever Certificate

 


 

Day-by-Day Snapshot

 

Day

Route

Highlights

1

Nairobi → Kenya South Coast Beach

Setup camp, beach sunset

2-3

Kenya South Coast Beach

Colobus conservation, village walks, beach relaxation

4

Kenya South Coast Beach→ Lunga Lunga → Tanzania North Coast Beach

Border crossing, arrive Tanzania coast

5

Tanzania North Coast Beach

UNESCO historic town tour, sunset dhow cruise

6

Tanzania North Coast Beach

Maziwe Marine Reserve snorkeling (full day)

7

Tanzania North Coast Beach

Mangrove kayaking, beach lounging

8

Tanzania North Coast Beach

Buffer day - pure relaxation

9

Tanzania North Coast Beach → Kenya South Coast Beach (return)

Border re-entry, Kenya beach

10

Kenya South Coast Beach

Final beach morning

11

Kenya South Coast Beach → Nairobi

Return home

12

Nairobi

Buffer day (optional)

 


 

Safety & Support

 

Convoy System: Travel as a group with convoy leader, convoy radios, daily check-ins
24/7 Emergency Support: Mara Nomads team reachable via WhatsApp/phone
Pre-Vetted Campsites: All campsites have 24/7 security, gated compounds, proper facilities
Border Expertise: We handle all border logistics guidance (permits, insurance, timing)
Easy Return: Our Tanzania destination is 3.5 hours from Kenya border—fastest "dash back" route if needed


How to Join

 

STEP 1: Register by [Deadline Date]

 

  • Pay Kes 12,000 registration fee
  • Submit passport/TP copies + vehicle details

 

STEP 2: Pre-Departure Prep (10 days before)

 

  • Attend virtual briefing
  • Pay campsite deposits
  • Pre-book excursions (Marine Reserve, dhow cruises)

 

STEP 3: Hit the Road!

 

  • Meet convoy at departure point (Nairobi)
  • Follow the Nomad Trail to the Indian Ocean

 


 

Limited Slots Available

 

Only 20 vehicles (40 participants max) to ensure intimate group dynamics and authentic campsite experiences.

 

First-come, first-served. When slots fill, registration closes.

 


 

Ready to Find Your Coast?

 

📧 Email: travel@maranomads.com
📱 WhatsApp: +254 794 897226
🌐 Website: www.maranomads.com
📍 Based: Nairobi, Kenya

 

Follow the tide. Find your tribe. Join Swahili Shores.

Terms and Conditions:

By joining this expedition, please be aware of the following:  

  • The itinerary is a guide and may be adjusted due to road and weather conditions, political situations, or decisions made by the Mara Nomads. 
  • All prices, charges, and fees are subject to change. 
  • Timeliness is crucial; any late arrivals will be left behind.  

Mara Nomads’ terms, conditions, and cancellation policy apply. For further details, visit our Terms & Conditions.

Price Includes
Guide fees
Bonfire
Security fees
Price Excludes
Transportation and fuel - this is a self-drive trip option
All meals and water
All excursions and activities such as boat hire
All accommodation charges for the 8 nights
Marine park fees
Dhow cruise fees
Border facilitation fees
Medical expenses (clients are advised to carry their medication)
Tips for locals if you are so inclined
Excursions and activities not mentioned in "Includes"
Location
FAQs

The expedition ends on Day 12 in Nairobi. However, participants have flexibility: you can depart the Kenyan South Coast Beach on Day 11 morning and arrive Nairobi by evening, or use Day 12 as a buffer if you prefer a more relaxed return. The convoy officially disbands after returning to Nairobi.

This is a beach camping trip—facilities are available! All campsites have showers, flush toilets, and secure compounds. You're not wild camping. Essential Gear: ✅ Tent ✅ Sleeping bags or blankets (coastal nights are warm—lightweight bags OK) ✅ Sleeping mats/mattresses (self-inflating mats or camping mattresses) ✅ Camping chairs (for beach lounging!) ✅ Shade structure (awning, gazebo, or large umbrella - beach sun is intense) ✅ Cooler box (for drinks, fresh food - ice available at campsites ✅ Headlamps/flashlights (for nighttime bathroom trips) Cooking Equipment: ✅ Portable gas stove (recommended) or charcoal grill ✅ Utensils ✅ Cutlery ✅ Cleaning stuff ✅ Water containers (drinking + cleaning water) ✅ Trash bags (leave no trace!) Food & Drinks: ✅ Non-perishables: ✅ Fresh food: Buy en route (Mombasa, Ukunda, Tanga have supermarkets) ✅ Drinking water: 4-5 liters per person per day (buy in bulk at supermarkets) ✅ Drinks: Beers, sodas, juices (some campsites have bars too!) Personal Items: ✅ Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended) ✅ Beach towels + quick-dry camping towel ✅ Toiletries ✅ Mosquito repellent (coastal areas have mosquitoes) ✅ Basic medications (painkillers, anti-diarrheal, antihistamines) Fuel: ✅ Fill up in Nairobi, Mombasa, Ukunda (Kenya) and Tanga (Tanzania)

The deadline for registration is December 15, 2024. The deadline for payment is December 20, 2024. The *registration fee covers*: ✅ guide fees ✅ security fees ✅ bonfire. The registration fee does not cover: ✅ camping fees for 8 nights ✅ meals ✅ any other thing not mentioned in the “includes” above

Nairobi Stores: ✅ Decathlon Kenya - www.decathlon.co.ke (best value, quality gear) ✅ China Square - Budget-friendly basics ✅ Carrefour - Village Market, Junction Mall (camping sections) ✅ Other Supermarkets - Camping gear + bulk food shopping Online Retailers: ✅ Safari Outfitters Kenya - https://safarioutfitterske.com (premium gear) ✅ Mustek Kenya - https://www.mustek.co.ke (4x4 + camping equipment) ✅ Builders Warehouse - https://www.builders.co.ke/Outdoor/Camping Second-Hand Options: ✅ Jiji Kenya - https://jiji.co.ke (inspect before paying!) ✅ Facebook Marketplace - Nairobi camping gear groups What to Prioritize: * Good quality tent (waterproof, easy setup) * Comfortable sleeping setup (mattress/mat) * Shade structure (beach sun is no joke!) * Cooler box (keeps drinks cold, food fresh)

Registration Fee: Adults: Kes 15,000 Children (4-12 years): Kes 6,500 Children (Under 4): Free What's Included: ✅ Complete route planning ✅ All campsite research, vetting & advance bookings ✅ Border crossing logistics support (Lunga Lunga) ✅ Excursion coordination (2 Marine Reserves, dhow cruises, cultural tours) ✅ Pre-departure vehicle inspection & briefing ✅ 24/7 convoy support & emergency assistance ✅ Private WhatsApp group coordination ✅ Daily check-ins & route guidance What's NOT Included: ❌ Accommodation (camping fees paid separately to hosts) ❌ Meals (self-catering + restaurant meals) ❌ Excursions & activities (paid separately) ❌ Fuel & vehicle costs ❌ Border fees ❌ Personal expenses (drinks, souvenirs, tips)

Essential Pre-Trip Service (2-3 weeks before): ✅ Full mechanical inspection (brakes, suspension, fluids) ✅ AC service (coastal heat + humidity = essential) ✅ Tire check (minimum 80% tread depth, properly inflated spare) ✅ Cooling system check (overheating risk on hot coastal roads) ✅ Check all hoses, belts, battery, alternator Mandatory Vehicle Equipment: ✅ Spare tire (properly inflated, matching vehicle) ✅ Fire extinguisher (1kg minimum) - required for Tanzania ✅ 2 warning triangles - required for Tanzania ✅ First aid kit ✅ Basic tools (jack, lug wrench, jumper cables) ✅ Recovery gear (tow rope, & 2 D-shackles) ✅ Baofeng BF888S radio (for communication) ✅ Spare car key (keep separate from main key!) Recommended (NOT A MUST): ✅ Roof rack or cargo carrier (for camping gear) ✅ Portable air compressor (for beach driving if needed) ⚠️ Vehicle Inspection: Mandatory inspection by Mara Nomads-designated mechanic before departure. 👉🏼👉🏼 CARRY A SPARE CAR KEY!

Clothing: ✅ Lightweight, breathable clothes (cotton, linen - it's HOT and humid!) ✅ Swimwear (multiple pairs - you'll be in the ocean daily!) ✅ Beach cover-ups (for walking around campsites) ✅ Light long-sleeve shirts (sun protection for beach walks) ✅ Shorts, sundresses, casual beachwear ✅ 1 light hoodie or sweater (rare cool evenings, AC in vehicle) ✅ Modest clothing for Coastal town visits (respect local Muslim/Swahili culture) Footwear: ✅ Beach sandals/flip-flops (primary footwear!) ✅ Water shoes (for snorkeling, rocky beaches) ✅ 1 pair closed shoes (for border crossing, town visits) ✅ Reef-safe sandals (Teva, Chaco-style for activities) Accessories: ✅ Wide-brimmed sun hat or cap (ESSENTIAL - beach sun is intense) ✅ Sunglasses (polarized recommended for ocean glare) ✅ Waterproof phone case (for beach/boat trips) ✅ Dry bag (for snorkeling trips, dhow cruises)

Registration & Payment: ✅ Registration Opens: December 11, 2025 ✅ Registration Deadline: December 20, 2025 or until slots fill ✅ 50% Deposit Due: December 18, 2025 ✅ Final Payment Deadline: December 20, 2025 Pre-Departure: ✅ Vehicle Inspection: December 11-18, 2025 ✅ Virtual Briefing: December 20, 2025 - 7pm Expedition Dates (December 2025): ✅ Day 1 (Dec 22): Assemble Nairobi 6am, depart for Tiwi ✅ Days 2-3 (Dec 23-24): Tiwi Beach ✅ Day 4 (Dec 25): Border crossing, arrive Pangani ✅ Days 5-8 (Dec 26-29): Pangani (Maziwe trip Day 6!) ✅ Day 9 (Dec 30): Return to Tiwi ✅ Day 10 (Dec 31): Tiwi Beach ✅ Day 11 (Jan 1): Return to Nairobi ✅ Day 12 (Jan 2): Buffer day

✅ M-Pesa (Lipa na M-Pesa): Buy Goods Till Number: 864599 Business Name: Mara Nomads Amount: Kes 15,000 (adult) or Kes 5,500 (child above 4) ✅ Bank Transfer: Contact travel@maranomads.com for bank details or WhatsApp: +254 794 897226 ✅ After Payment: * Send M-Pesa confirmation message to WhatsApp: +254 794 897226 * Include: Your name, vehicle registration, number of adults/kids * You'll receive confirmation + join private WhatsApp group ✅ Accommodation & Excursion Payments: Paid separately to Mara Nomads 50% deposit: 5 days before departure Final balance: 10 days before departure Payment instructions sent via WhatsApp group

YES! Swahili Shores is VERY kid-friendly. Why Kids Will Love It: ✅ Beach camping (sandcastles, swimming daily!) ✅ Snorkeling at Marine Reserve (sea turtles, dolphins - ages 5+) ✅ Dhow sailing (traditional boats - adventure!) ✅ Gentle activities (no strenuous hiking) ✅ Shaded campsites (important for young kids) ✅ Showers + flush toilets at all camps (no roughing it!) Parent Tips: ✅ AC is ESSENTIAL - coastal heat/humidity can be tough on kids ✅ Pack plenty of snacks & drinks (kids get hungry/thirsty on beach days!) ✅ Entertainment: Tablets with downloaded movies, beach toys, books cSun protection: Kids' sunscreen (SPF 50+), hats, rash guards for swimming ✅ Life jackets: If kids are weak swimmers (for dhow cruises, snorkeling) Age Recommendations: Ages 0-3: Doable but a tiny bit challenging Ages 4-8: Perfect age (love the beach, simple snorkeling, adventure!) Ages 9+: Ideal (can participate fully in all activities)

Paid Separately to Hosts (via Mara Nomads): Accommodation: Camping: person/night (varies by campsite) Rooms (if preferred): person/night Excursions: Kenya Marine Reserve snorkeling: ⭐ (MUST-DO!) Tanzania Marine Reserve snorkeling: ⭐ (MUST-DO!) Tanzania historic town tour: /person Kenya and Tanzania Sunset dhow cruise: /person Tanzania Mangrove kayaking: /person Village cultural walks: /person Activities (Optional): Additional dhow trips, snorkeling: Varies Vehicle Costs (per Vehicle): Tanzania border facilitation fee: KES 1,000 Personal Costs: Meals (self-catering + restaurants) Drinks, snacks, tips Souvenirs etc.

Departure: December 22, 2025 (Monday) Return: January 02, 2026 (Friday) Note: Dates are tentative and may be adjusted based on group preference or operator availability. Final dates confirmed 90 days before departure.

Recommended: 4x4 (for beach access tracks and oastal roads) Acceptable: High-clearance AWD (MUST be pre-approved by Mara Nomads) Why 4x4? * Some beach campsites have sandy access tracks * Tanzania coastal roads can be rough after rain * Peace of mind for convoy driving This is NOT an off-road expedition like Coast I. If you have a well-maintained SUV (like a Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, or similar), it can work—just contact us first for approval.

Beach Essentials: ✅ Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins - or rent them) ✅ Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+) ✅ After-sun lotion or aloe vera ✅ Beach games (frisbee, volleyball, cards) ✅ Books, Kindle (lots of beach lounging time!) Health & Safety: ✅ Malaria prophylaxis (consult doctor - coastal areas are malaria zones) ✅ Basic first aid kit (band-aids, painkillers, anti-diarrheal) ✅ Mosquito repellent ✅ Hand sanitiser, wet wipes ✅ Prescription medications (bring extras) Electronics: ✅ Phone + charger ✅ Power station (to keep the fridge running) ✅ Power bank (campsites have charging, but good backup) ✅ Camera ✅ Headlamp or flashlight Documents: ✅ Passport OR Kenya Temporary Permit (TP) - see border section ✅ Vehicle logbook (original or notarized copy) ✅ Driving license (Kenyan + International if you have it) ✅ Photocopies of all documents (keep separate from originals) ✅ Yellow fever certificate Money: ✅ KES cash (for Kenya expenses) ✅ USD cash (easier to exchange at Tanzania border, but KES is still okay) ✅ M-Pesa (works in Kenya, & in Tanzania) ✅ Credit/debit card (backup, not all places accept cards)

Personal Documents (Every Traveler): OPTION 1: Kenyan Passport ✅ (Recommended) Valid passport with 6+ months validity Kenyan citizens get visa-free entry to Tanzania (90 days) OPTION 2: Kenya Temporary Travel Permit (TP) ✅ (For Kenyans without passports) Apply via eCitizen: www.ecitizen.go.ke Cost: Kes 1,050 Requirements: Original Kenyan ID, 2 passport photos Processing: Immediate Valid: 30 days, single entry/exit to Tanzania Children: Valid passport OR original birth certificate + parent's ID 2 passport photos 💡YELLOW FEVER CERTIFICATE Vehicle Documents: ✅ Original vehicle logbook OR notarized copy ✅ Notarized authorization letter (if vehicle not registered in your name) ✅ Kenyan driving license (original) ✅ Kenyan vehicle insurance ✅ COMESA insurance Tanzania Road Safety Requirements (Checked randomly on the road): ✅ 1kg fire extinguisher ✅ 2 warning triangles ✅ Spare tire (properly inflated, matching vehicle) ✅ First aid kit

Expected time: 1-2 hours for full convoy

YES! Rooms are available, especially in Tanzania. ✅ Kenya (Beach): Limited availability (4 rooms) - book early if preferred ✅ Tanzania (Beach): More rooms available - but book early because its a high season 💡 Recommended Strategy: Camp at Kenya side (5 total nights) - affordable, good facilities Splurge on rooms at Tanzania side (5 nights) - treat yourself! Let Mara Nomads know your preference during registration - we'll coordinate room bookings.

BOTH self-catering AND restaurants available! ✅ Campsites with Restaurants: Kenya Beach Campsite: Full restaurant/bar, breakfast/lunch/dinner available Tanzania Beach Campsite: Excellent seafood restaurant, bar ✅ Self-Catering Facilities: All campsites have washing-up sinks, water available ✅ Recommended Approach: Self-cater breakfasts Self-cater some dinners Restaurant meals 3-4 times (at Kenya South Coast Campsite arrivals, Tanzania fresh seafood nights) Packed lunches (for beach days) ✅ Grocery Shopping Stops: Nairobi: Bulk non-perishables before departure Ukunda: Fresh produce, meats, drinks (10km from campsite) Tanzania: Supermarket stop en route to campsite

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