Location:
Funzi Island lies off the south coast of Kenya, in Kwale County, about 35 km south of Diani Beach and 70 km from Mombasa. It is part of a small archipelago in the Ramisi River estuary, consisting mainly of Funzi Island, Bodo Island, and a few smaller islets surrounded by mangroves and sandbanks.

General Description
Funzi Island is one of Kenya’s most beautiful and tranquil coastal destinations, known for its untouched beaches, mangrove forests, and crystal-clear waters. It offers a peaceful alternative to the busier Diani coastline — perfect for visitors seeking eco-tourism, cultural immersion, and natural beauty.
The island is inhabited by the Shirazi people, a Swahili-speaking community with deep cultural roots in coastal Kenya. Fishing and small-scale agriculture are the main livelihoods.

Main Attractions & Activities
Funzi Sandbank (Funzi Keys Sandbar)
A stunning white sandbar that emerges at low tide — ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Accessible by boat and often the highlight of a Funzi excursion.
Ramisi River Mangrove Safari
Guided boat trips or canoe safaris through the lush mangrove channels, where you can spot:
Crocodiles basking along the banks
Varied birdlife, including kingfishers, egrets, and fish eagles
Crabs and fish nurseries in the mangroves

Village Tours
Visit Funzi Village to experience Swahili coastal culture, local cuisine (especially seafood and coconut dishes), and traditional boat-building.
Turtle Nesting
Some of the surrounding beaches serve as turtle nesting sites (green and hawksbill turtles), protected by local conservation groups.
Funzi Keys Resort (previously a luxury eco-lodge)
Though currently closed for renovations (status should be checked before visiting), it was once the main accommodation on the island, known for barefoot luxury and exclusivity.
Wildlife
The surrounding waters and mangroves are rich in biodiversity:
Crocodiles (notably near Ramisi River)
Marine life such as rays, dolphins, and various fish species
Birds: herons, pelicans, and ospreys are commonly seen

How to Get There
From Diani Beach: Drive to Bodo Village (about 1 hour).
From Bodo, take a motorized dhow or boat across the channel to Funzi Island (10–15 minutes).
Organized day trips are offered by several Diani-based tour operators.

Best Time to Visit
December to March and June to October – warm, dry, and sunny; ideal for boat trips and beach visits.
Avoid heavy rains (April–May and November) when waters can be rough.
Conservation & Community
Funzi Island is an example of community-led eco-tourism, aiming to balance tourism with the protection of mangroves, marine life, and cultural heritage.

Efforts include:

• Mangrove replanting projects
• Turtle conservation programs
• Sustainable fishing initiatives