Diani Backpackers was born under a slightly different name all the way back in 2012 and the hostel has changed owners a few times. The hostel has since grown from 14 dorm beds and 2 private rooms to 44 dorm beds and 13 private rooms. But through the changes and growth the place has gone through, the heart and soul have always stayed the same. Diani Backpackers is a place where travellers from all over the world get together to meet, eat, drink, party, explore and make amazing memories!
Where in Diani are you located?
From Ukunda, turn right at the Carrefour supermarket crossroads to enter Diani. After about 6 kilometers, turn left when you reach "KFI supermarket." This is immediately before the tarmac road becomes narrow and shortly after a speed bump. On the right-hand side of the road, you can see our sign. Our gate is on the right after about 150 meters after following this road. It's impossible to miss!
How can I travel to Diani?
Depending on your starting point, of course! You can travel here by road, rail, or air from Nairobi.Air: Taking one of the numerous flights that depart from both Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta Airport directly to the Diani airstrip is by far the fastest way to get here from Nairobi. You will only need a few minutes after landing to reach our gate and get a drink at the bar. Both Jambojet and Skyscanner have information about flights.
Road or Rail: You can reserve a number of buses in Nairobi that will take you on a "adventurous" 10 to 12-hour drive through the night to Mombasa. Of course, this is a possibility, but the new SGR Compared to other options, the train from 2017 is significantly safer, faster, and generally less expensive. In a little more than 4 hours during the day, the SGR travels through stunning landscapes and national parks from Nairobi to Mombasa.
Here you may learn more about the SGR and purchase tickets. You can take a taxi from Mombasa; the driver would know where to take you. You can also take a boda, tuk tuk, or matatu to the Likoni ferry, cross on foot, and then repeat the process to go to Diani on the other side. Of course, we can assist you with making travel arrangements. Just cry out to us! Do you provide airport or airport runway pickup service? We can set up a meet and greet. You will be picked up at Diani Airstrip or Mombasa Airport. Once you've reserved your stay with us, just let us know so we can make the necessary arrangements. Give us your flight information, and we'll make sure your ride is there when you arrive! The cost is 600 Kenyan Shillings from the Diani Airstrip and 4,000 from the Mombasa Airport.
Do you provide airport or airport runway pickup service?
Yes, we can set up a pickup for you at Mombasa Airport or Diani Airstrip. Once you've reserved your stay with us, just let us know so we can make the necessary arrangements. Give us your flight information, and we'll make sure your ride is there when you arrive! The cost is 600 Kenyan Shillings from the Diani Airstrip and 4,000 from the Mombasa Airport.
What is your cancellation and booking policy?
Depending on the booking channel you used, this. To learn more, kindly see the relevant booking website. If you've made a direct reservation with us, you can change or cancel any reservations at no cost up to 72 hours before arrival. Any alterations or cancellations made after that point will incur a 100% cancellation fee. 100% of the reservation cost will be charged in the event of no-shows. To secure any reservations, we need a 50% down payment.
What is the typical age of visitors to Diani Backpackers, and which age groups are not permitted?
People of all ages like staying with us, and we're glad to state so. The age range with the most representation is 18 to 35, although we frequently welcome visitors who are more 'senior' in age and they enjoy their time with us just as much. Regulated restrictions prevent us from letting children under the age of 16 stay the night. However, if they are accompanied by an adult during the day, they are most welcome.
Is Diani Backpackers accepting credit/debit cards for payment?
You can, indeed. All popular credit and debit cards are accepted here. However, the bank assesses a 4% fee for card payments. Please don't hate us for it because we have no influence over that.
What currencies do you accept in addition to cash payments?
You can pay in cash, yes. Kenyan Shillings are accepted here.
Can I use Mpesa to pay?
Yes, of course!
Do you deal in currency?
Although there are numerous banks in Diani that offer forex, we don't.
Can I run a tab for meals and beverages at the bar?
Yes, that is how we operate! You will be responsible for paying your tab at the end of each week for whatever you eat while you are there.
Does Diani have any additional exchange bureaus?
Although most banks convert currencies, Diani does not currently have any Forex offices.
Do the rates include breakfast or any other meals?
Although breakfast and other meals are not included in our rates, our kitchen staff can whip up any type of food for you at very reasonable pricing! All of our food and beverage menus are available here. All prices include 2% Catering Levy and 16% VAT.
Where are your private rooms?
Both inside the main house and around our lovely yard are the individual rooms. The private bathrooms inside the house have king-sized beds and all the glitzy amenities you could want, such as air conditioning and hot water. The outdoor privates are adorable cozy huts with Queen-sized beds, a fan, and a mosquito net. View the specifics of our private rooms here.
Where are your dorms?
Both inside the main house and outside in the garden are the dorms. Depending on how near to the action you want to be, we offer a number of options! Just above the FAQ section are pictures and descriptions of each of our rooms.
Do you have a kitchen where I can prepare my own food?
Unfortunately, we don't, but our chefs are AMAZING and our pricing are so reasonable that it would be insane for you to spend your time laboring in the kitchen yourself. Our menus are available here.
Do you serve meals?
Absolutely. Our skilled chefs can prepare meals from our constantly-changing menu at reasonable costs at any hour of the day using fresh ingredients from nearby sources. You'll almost certainly end up staying for our meals rather than going out to eat more often, we can assure you of that! The kitchen typically shuts at 9pm, but if there are any great events that evening, our chefs will typically stay late to serve anyone who is hungry. Find all of our menus here.
Do you provide vegan food?
Indeed, we have vegan and vegetarian options on our menu!
Do you offer services for those who have a gluten or other food allergy?
Sure, we do. Please check with the chefs before placing an order.
What are the bar's hours of operation?
Our bar is manned and stocked around-the-clock.
Do you have WiFi or Internet access?
Absolutely, we do! You can utilize our high-speed fiber network for free the entire time you are staying with us!
Can I reserve safaris, tours, and adventure activities through you?
Yes, you can! Simply visit one of our team members while you're with us or contact us in advance so we can arrange it for you; we have partners in every category that can accommodate any budget.
Can I leave my luggage with you if I’m going on an overnight tour?
You can, indeed. If it's only a few nights, we'll safely keep your belongings for no extra charge.
Do you have a pool and/or foosball table?
Come on… What self respecting hostel doesn’t??
Do you have parking facilities?
Yes, there are (rather limited) free parking spaces accessible on the compound.
Does Diani have public transportation?
Yes. The two most popular modes of transportation in Diani are the Tuk Tuk and Boda Boda (motorbike taxis). Both are affordable, secure, and widely available. Usually there are some parked just outside our gate, but if not, there are plenty more two minutes away. Call or Whatsapp John at +254715696931 if you need a taxi.
Is it safe to venture outside the hostel to see places like the town or the beach?
Absolutely! We urge you to walk wherever you like during the day. We advise taking a cab, boda, or tuk tuk from our gate at night. We can arrange this for you and they will arrive shortly.
How long is it to the beach on foot?
About 300 meters and a straight stroll from our gate separates the beach. Your feet will soon be in contact with the Diani / Galu beach's famed powdered white sand!
How close are the eateries and shops?
Diani consists of a 17 km long road that is dotted with a variety of eateries and shops. We truly don't have a "town center" where everything is gathered together. The shops and restaurants closest to you are only a few minutes away, although some are a little further. However, everything is minutes away when you hop into a Tuk Tuk or the back of a Boda!
In Diani, are there any banks or ATMs? If so, how far away is the closest one?
In Diani, there are several different types of banks, and each one has an ATM. They all accept Visa, and some of them also accept Maestro/Mastercard. The closest one is located at the Chandarana shopping area, which is 7 minutes from our gate via taxi, boda, or tuk tuk.
Is my (travel) insurance valid there and is there a hospital or doctor nearby?
Diani is home to numerous hospitals that are ready to handle any kind of medical emergency, no matter how serious. In case an ambulance transfer to their facilities is required, there are 24 hour A&E and ICU units. All forms of (travel) insurance are accepted.
Do you have any job openings at Diani Backpackers?
Maybe! Anyone interested in joining our team is urged to email jobs@dianibackpackers.com with their resume and cover letter. We'll keep your information on file and get in touch with you if we think you'd be a good fit for a position that opens up. Only Kenyan citizens and residents who already have a valid work visa will be taken into consideration due to Kenya's rigorous immigration and labor rules.
Are there any other details I should know?
Not that we can come up with! But if you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at any time! Information about us can be found at info@dianibackpackers.com and at +254700713666.
Camel rides, motorbike rentals for cruising, scuba diving in the Indian Ocean, dhow excursions to Wasini island and the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park, kiteboarding, and safaris are all available right outside our gate.
There are various activities available for every budget, and we can assist you in booking them all. Due to Shimba Hills National Park's close proximity, we can take you to undiscovered locations with the most breathtaking views you could ask for when visiting Africa.
A short taxi ride (or matatu, if you're feeling daring) will take you to Mombasa, where you can stroll through the Old Town marketplaces and see the island's numerous cultural landmarks. Check out our comprehensive activities guide, which will be ready for you when you arrive, to learn more about all Diani and the surrounding area have to offer.
As for the nightlife.. well there is no place like home really! Diani Backpackers is the nr. 1 party spot in Diani for guests, residents and and others from all over Diani and frankly the whole of `Kenya! Simply simply check out our instagram page and you'll see for yourself!
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