It’s certainly possible to visit Mnarani Resort in on the coast of Kenya and totally forget that you are on the Dark Continent of Africa – not that you’d necessarily want to, but you could.

Mnarani has a certain “je ne sais quoi” that you feel the moment you walk through our doors. A uniquely appealing quality not easily defined, but instantly noticeable as a physical reaction in the soles of your feet and a joyful feeling of well-being in your soul. It’s more than the warmth and hospitality of the staff, it’s more than the simple delights of space and comfort and it’s more than the sensory stimuli of myriad sights, sounds and smells and the endless tropical canvas of colors… It’s the very heart of Mnarani welcoming you here.

Situated on the cliffs of Kilifi Creek, just where the creek meets and merges with the Indian Ocean, Mnarani provides perfectly for the beach and turquoise ocean under one foot and the activity and adventure of creek-life under the other. Kilifi lives and breathes the gentle sea breeze, at the edge of the ocean, between Malindi and Mombasa. Set in 40 acres of landscaped tropical garden, fragranced by Frangipani blossoms and balmy ocean breezes, Mnarani is an idyllic retreat and holiday destination.

Paths through the grounds lead you down onto the soft white sand of Mnarani’s private cove. This beautiful little beach offers great facilities for water sports – from sailing to exhilarating jet-ski rides – or for simply enjoying a swim or relaxing on a lounger under a thatched parasol.

With breathtaking surroundings and recreational facilities that cater for every taste, Mnarani caters equally well for family holidays, or the ultimate romantic getaway or honeymoon destination.

Kenyan Culture and History
Kenya has a culture born of a myriad sources and this proudly reflects her strength – the ability to integrate the best of many worlds into her own unique and endlessly beautiful culture – a culture appropriately matched by a country as diverse and beautiful as its people.

Recognizing its value on the trade route along the east coast of Africa, the Portuguese took control of Mombasa towards the end of the 15th century and dominated this region until their expulsion in the 1700s. Two Arab dynasties followed, and Arab rule lasted until the British government declared a protectorate over Kenya at the end of the 18th century. The first murmurings of political protest were heard in the early 1920s, and efforts to gain freedom from British rules saw the start of the Mau Mau movement in about 1947. The movement gained momentum and – despite British government action – Kikuyu resistance spearheaded the Kenya independence movement and Jomo Kenyatta, who had been jailed as a Mau Mau leader in 1953, became president of an independent Kenya 10 years later. After Kenyatta’s death in 1978, he was succeeded by Daniel arap Moi, who stepped down following elections in 2002. The position was then assumed by Mwai Kibaki, who is the current president of Kenya.

Interestingly enough, the Maasai tribe, which is synonymous with Kenya, represents only 1.5% of the country’s population. These fearless tribesmen in their bright red clothing are an intriguing and somewhat mystical part of Kenyan culture.

Resort Accommodation and Facilities
Offering either double or twin bed accommodations, with a choice of ocean-facing Creek rooms or Garden rooms centered around beautiful treed gardens overlooking the creek, the rooms offer ultimate relaxation and comfort. Moving into this deliciously cool air-conditioned space and the romance of soft, white mosquito netting, reaffirms your pleasure at being here and ensures the sweetest dreams. While the nets are beautiful, they are also practical. Mosquito-borne diseases are not entirely eradicated, although visits to Africa are made safer by a compulsory yellow fever vaccination; malaria is a risk throughout the country and prophylactics are recommended, as is the use of insect repellent.

The rooms are simply and tastefully decorated with hardwood furniture and a touch of Arabic style. The en suite bathrooms provide for your every need with generous counter tops, baths and showers.

Dining at Mnarani
Our Mnarani Restaurant serves an enticing, healthy and varied breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet, featuring international specialty nights. Our buffet tables are loaded with a fantastic variety of choice foods, guaranteed to  satisfy any hunger and offer the finest dining. Fresh produce arrives daily from Kilifi farms, and our delicious seafood is supplied by local fisherman. A fabulous a la carte menu, with an array of mouthwatering starters, meals and desserts, is also available.

The main bar forms part of the main open-plan lounge and dining area. Serving house wines, beers, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks, this bar commands stunning views of the swimming pool, creek and ocean.

The beach bar is a fabulous, informal, fun location to relax with a drink and enjoy good company, a little music, the passing activities of the cove and creek and the wonderful island vibe of Mnarani.

Activities and Excursions
Our animation team is always hard at work ensuring that your stay with us is fun-filled and memorable. Each month of the year sees a new animation program – a jam-packed calendar of events, carefully planned for your pleasure. We have made every effort to ensure that there are activities to cater for all ages and the variety means that there is something that appeals to everyone.

Water sport activities include creek fishing, creek safaris, jet skiing, kayaking, , sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, waterskiing, windsurfing, and banana tube and pontoon rides. A sunset cruise also is available. Land activities include cycling, squash and playing a round or two of Crazy Golf; other excursions and day trips are available.

More pedestrian pursuits also can be found: Mnarani offers board games, TV and DVD Hire, and a TV lounge.

The resort also features The Mnarani Health & Wellness Centre, a resort shop, and conference and wedding facilities. Mnarani offers laundry service and foreign currency exchange as well.

Climate
The coastal areas are hot and tropical, tempered by cooling ocean breezes, The rainy season is May to June, The lowlands are hot and dry, while the highlands are more temperate, The mountainous regions can get very cold at altitude. Guests are advised to take special care and apply sun protection at all times; with the cool breeze coming off the ocean, one can easily underestimate the strength of the African sun.

Mnarani Hotel, located at B 8, Kilifi, Kilifi, Kenya, is affiliated with the Africa Vacation Club. For more information, contact:
Thie Corneil Services Ltd/Africa
Vacation Club
PO Box 397-00621
Nairobi
Kenya
Tel: +254 20 2441207/8
Cell: +254 724 255868 or 734 603535
www.africavacationclub.com
www.mnarani.co.za

Tags: Africa Fractional Property, Africa Vacation Club, hospitality, Indian Ocean, Kenya, Kilifi Creek, Malindi, Mnarani Resort, Mombasa