Chale Island
This blog post talks about Chale Island. It identifies its location, lists down all the fun activities you can do as well discuss whether there is an entrance fee or not.
Chale Island is one of the most beautiful, secluded and toured Islands in Kenya. It is home to the sacred Kaya forests and it is surrounded by coral reefs all around.
In case you are looking for a romantic getaway or one of the Best Places to Visit in Diani, you should highly consider Chale Island.
Chale Island Location
Chale is a small romantic island that is located 10 kilometres South of Diani and about 600 metres from the mainland.
According to Tsavo National Park, this Island is 1.2 Kilometres long and 0.8 Kilometres wide.
Upon visiting this Island last year (2023), I would say that this Island is divided into 2 parts, the resort and the Kaya forest.
How to Get to Chale Island from Nairobi
Chale Island can be accessed by different means of transport such as road, water and air.
However, the best way to access this hidden gem is by air.
Below is a step by step guide on you can get to Chale Island.
- Board a domestic plane from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson Airport.
- Fly to Ukunda (on average a one-way ticket costs about $104 and the flight takes about 1 hours and 15 minutes)
- Upon arriving at Ukunda, you will be required to travel by boat to the Island.
- In case you land at Mombasa International Airport, you will be required to travel by bus or a car till Ukunda.
- From Ukunda, you will then take a boat ride to Chale Island.
Fun Activities to do at Chale Island
Below is a list of some of the fun activities you can do at Chale Island.
Scuba Diving
At Chale Island, tourists have an opportunity to dive and explore the Indian Ocean.
One of the best things about this activity is that you will be able to connect with marine animals such as turtles, and fish.
Imagine diving and swimming with such marine animals, sounds fun right ? Other related activities include beach and boat snorkelling.
Game Fishing
In case you like to fish, Chale Island is an amazing spot where you can exercise your fishing skills.
As mentioned earlier on, Chale Island is surrounded by coral reefs which are breeding grounds for fish and crustaceans.
Upon my last visit, I found this activity to be very therapeutic and relaxing.
For best results and to avoid any inconveniences, you should carry your own fishing rod.
Tag along someone during the fishing exercise.
Kayaking
Kayaking is also available at Chale Island.
In simple language, Kayaking is water-based recreational activity that involves paddling a small watercraft that is known as a Kayak.
In case you want to explore the surrounding waters at Chale Island, the way is through Kayaking.
Riding a yacht is also a good alternative but I believe Kayaking is better because it also involves exercising your body.
Enjoy Accommodation at The Sands at Chale Island
The Sands at Chale Island or Chale Island Resort os arguably one of the most beautiful places you can ever seek accommodation in the Coastal area.
The resort has a Google Rating of 4.6 Stars after more than 700 Google Reviews. It offers a private and VIP experience to its guests.
Photography
Taking photographs with a background of the beautiful Indian Ocean and the coral reefs is one of the best activities you can ever do at Chale Island.
I wish I could post all my pictures so that you can understand what I truly mean.
Recently, Chale Island was named as one the most beautiful Islands in the World. This is largely because of its white sandy beaches, mangrove forests, the kaya forest and coral reefs.
Imagine taking a picture with a background of all these, sounds wonderful right ?
Bird watching
Bird watching is another popular activity in Chale Island.
Some of the birds you can expect to see at this Island include; Herons, Palm nut Vultures, and African Fish Eagles.
For the best bird watching experience, kindly carry a pair of binoculars.
Sun Bathing
Sun Bathing is one of the most underated activities you can do in Chale Island.
The white sandy beaches provide a comfortable bed for you to lie, stretch your body and let the sun soak you up.
Its a very therapeutic activity that lets you reflect on life.
Catamaran Sailing
This is an activity that involves riding a shallow comfortable boat across the ocean.
It is different from Kayaking because catamaran boats are much faster, stable and spacious when compared to Kayaks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an Entrance Fee to access Chale Island ?
There are no entrance charges of fees to access Chale Island.
How do I get from Nairobi to Chale Island?
- Board a domestic plane from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson Airport.
- Fly to Ukunda (on average a one-way ticket costs about $104 and the flight takes about 1 hours and 15 minutes)
- Upon arriving at Ukunda, you will be required to travel by boat to the Island.
- In case you land at Mombasa International Airport, you will be required to travel by bus or a car till Ukunda.
- From Ukunda, you will then take a boat ride to Chale Island.
How big is Chale Island?
Chale Island is 1.2 Kilometres long and 0.8 Kilometres wide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chale is one of the most beautiful and romantic Islands in Kenya.
Visiting this hidden and secluded gem is very therapeutic and recommendable.
My visit to Chale Island was a dream come true. Its an experience I will never forget in my life.
