Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Malindi. Malindi Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave MYD:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Kenya. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Malindi takes about 30 minutes by Taxi or Tuk-tuk. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is KES. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Malindi from the Airport
From MYD, the Taxi or Tuk-tuk gets you to Malindi in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi or Tuk-tuk offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at MYD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Malindi’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Malindi:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $11 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $27 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Malindi, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Malindi
If you head into Malindi, here are two things worth checking out:
Vasco da Gama Pillar is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Malindi.
Malindi Beach Stroll is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MYD, you can spend time at Malindi Airport Waiting Area or try Local Crafts & Souvenir Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Malindi, local travelers recommend Osteria Beach Malindi. If you have time for a second stop, Old Man and the Sea Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at MYD, Malindi Airport Coffee & Snacks is the go-to. Terminal Food Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MYD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Malindi itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Kenya that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MYD
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MYD has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Malindi doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from MYD, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.