Here’s What to Know About the Mambrui Sand Dunes

By Mercy Omondi

Did you know there’s a place in Kenya where the desert meets the ocean, creating a landscape so surreal it feels like another world?

Welcome to the Mambrui Sand Dunes, a hidden gem along the Kenyan coast. Known locally as ‘Dubai Ndogo’ (Little Dubai), these golden dunes offer a perfect escape for adventure seekers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience nature at its most raw and beautiful.

Over the centuries, these wind-sculpted formations have not only formed a breathtaking terrain but also held cultural and historical significance, making them more than just a scenic destination.

The shifting sands, combined with the coastal breeze, create a peaceful yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Keep reading to uncover why this Kenyan Coastal gem deserves a spot on your travel list.

Location and Discovery of Mambrui Dunes

The golden dunes are located north of Malindi in Kilifi County, along Kenya’s coastline. Their unique shapes create a striking blend of desert-like scenery with the coastal environment.

Mambrui town attracted archaeological interest following the discovery of iron slags, an iron smelter, a jade-green shard of porcelain, and a Chinese coin dating back to the early 15th century.

This coin, known as Yongle Tongbao from the reign of the Yongle Emperor of the Ming Dynasty, suggests early trade connections between China and the East African coast.

To access the dunes, visitors are advised to use a tuk-tuk or boda boda, as the site is quite a distance from the main road.

A tuk-tuk ride to and from the dunes costs approximately $5 (Ksh600).

How to Get There

You can reach the Mambrui dunes via air, road or the Standard Gauge Railways (SGR) depending on your location and mode of travel.

To arrive by air, you will fly to Malindi International Airport, then take a 30-minute drive to Mambrui. Direct flights to Malindi are available from Nairobi and some coastal destinations.

By Road, from Nairobi, it’s about an 8-hour drive via Mombasa Road and Malindi. Private vehicles, taxis, and long-distance buses are available.

Residents of nearby coastal towns like Watamu and Kilifi can easily access Mambrui by car, matatu, or hired transport, with the journey taking between 30 minutes to an hour.

If you’re coming from Malindi, the dunes are just a short 20–30-minute drive away, accessible by tuk-tuk, boda boda, taxi, or private vehicle.

Alternatively, you can take the SGR train to Mombasa, then drive (about 2.5 to 3 hours) or take a local flight to Malindi before continuing to Mambrui.

Best Time to Visit

Locals recommend visiting the dunes between June to October (cooler, dry season) or December to March (hot but dry) as these periods offer the best conditions.

In addition, they advise against exploring the terrains in April and May due to heavy rains, which may make access difficult.

Things to do at Mambrui Sand Dunes

Mambrui Sand Dunes offers an array of activities. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities like sandboarding and quad biking or simply want to soak in the stunning views.

Here’s a list of exciting things to do at the dunes.

1. Quad Biking & 4×4 Drives

For thrill-seekers, quad biking is a must-try adventure, letting you race across the golden dunes with the wind in your face.

Each bike can accommodate two people, making it a fun activity to share excitement with a friend or ride solo for an unforgettable experience.

The quad biking rates are as follows:

• 30 minutes – Ksh 3,500
• 25 minutes – Ksh 2,500
• 15 minutes – Ksh 2,200
• 10 minutes – Ksh 1,800
• 5 minutes – Ksh 1,000

Additionally, you can rent Arafat scarves for dust protection for Ksh 100 or purchase at Ksh 1,000 or more.

2. Scenic Walks & Sandboarding

These vast dunes are perfect for long scenic walks, photography, and sandboarding, providing an unforgettable adventure.

3. Beach Access

Just a short distance from the dunes, Mambrui Beach offers a peaceful escape with fewer crowds than other coastal beaches, making it ideal for relaxation and swimming.

4. Rich Historical Significance:

Mambrui is one of Kenya’s oldest Swahili settlements, with ancient ruins and a rich Arab-African history.

What to Pack

It advisable to pack light, breathable clothing as it gets hot, along with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

In addition, carry comfortable walking shoes or sandals for ease while exploring the dunes.

A camera or phone is great for capturing the stunning landscapes, and most importantly, carry plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Safety & Travel Tips

• The sand can get extremely hot during midday, so it is advisable to visit early morning or late afternoon.
• If exploring alone, inform someone or consider hiring a local guide.
• Carry cash as ATMs and card payments may not be widely available.
• Lastly, respect the environment by avoiding littering or disturbing the delicate dune ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

The Mambrui Sand Dunes offer an unforgettable adventure, whether you’re looking for thrill, relaxation, or cultural discovery.

With stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and historical significance, this hidden gem along the Kenyan coast is a must-visit destination.

Planning a trip? Let Travel Moran take care of the details so you can focus on the experience. Whether you’re after an adventure or a relaxing getaway, we make travel effortless and unforgettable.

Reach out to us today at info@travelmoran.com or Tel: +254 798 077 131.