Drawing its inspiration from the vibrant traditions and colors of African, Indian, Arabic and elegant European influences, this villa for rent is a true melting pot of global style. Owned by an Italian couple whose travels and work in the creative arts are evident throughout the home, the property is designed as a celebration of culture, taste and refinement and a desire to share an authentic African experience.

Pairing traditional forms and design, the open air spaces under the Makuti-style thatched roof are designed with plush comforts and an array of handcrafts and elegantly appointed spaces.

The hospitality is an experience all its own, designed to introduce guests to the great natural beauty, culture and cuisine of the region with live music and storytelling in the evenings by your hosts to entertain and share their passion for the country, making memories to take with you for a lifetime.

Set back a short walk to the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean in the vibrant market town of Malindi, this villa for rent in Kenya sums up the colors, and culture of Africa and the global influences that have come to define the area. Designed by a husband and wife team, the villa's large Makuti-thatched roof dominates the structure with double height ceilings that form the focal point of the villa, with polished concrete floors and airy contemporary spaces overlooking the gardens and pool. The owners have collected and personalized the house with traditional crafts, textiles and furnishings in a colorful mix of African, Arab, and Indian pieces.

There's a fully-equipped kitchen with a private chef who prepares local and international favorites, where you can dine in the open-air pavilion. There's a separate sitting room on the ground floor and an expansive lounge space on the mezzanine level. The main house has five double bedrooms, and there is a guest house on the beach that can accommodate up to four more. 

The grounds are lush and private with a sparkling pool and lounge. If you're in search of exclusivity, privacy and peace, this villa is the ideal place to use as a base from which to discover the amazing Kenyan coast.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Concierge services, private chef, and daily housekeeping included with optional massage and spa, yoga, personal trainer and private flights from Mombasa and Nairobi available on request. Wifi throughout, kitchen and bath amenities, laundry facilities. 24-hour guard and security service.

AROUND

Set along the crystal clear shores of the Indian Ocean, the coastal town of Malindi is at the crossroads of several cultures and traditions that have influenced its development. Starting with Vasco De Gama in the 15th century (whose monument stands at a rocky point at the mouth of the River Galana), the local tribes including the Mijikenda and nine other indigenous tribes, and settled again by a large contingent of expat Italians in the 1970s, there's a distinctive melting pot of influence to the region.

The atmospheric old town is a bustling hub of shops and local craftsmen designing an array of wares along a maze of pedestrian footpaths as well as a string of resorts and hotels along the shores.

The Malindi Marine National Park and nearby Watamu Marine National Park are home to a protected biosphere of colorful marine life, and the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve an hour east is home to elephants, and hundreds of species of wildlife and birds for an immersive safari experience. The archeological remains of an ancient Swahili town, Gede Ruins on the banks of the River Sabaki are just outside of the reserve. 

The charming town of Watamu with its white sand beaches and lagoons is a half hour south.

LOCATION

Malindi, Kenya. Nearest Airport: Moi International Airport, Mombasa (135km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Rainy season is from May to July, Dry season August to December - January to April