Historic site
Ruins of Gedi
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Ruins of Gedi are the remains of a Swahili settlement that flourished between the 12th and 17th centuries. Hidden within a coastal forest, the site includes the Great Mosque, a palace with intricate coral stone walls, and several tombs with Arabic inscriptions. Visitors can wander through the excavated structures, imagining the bustling trade hub that once connected Africa, Arabia, and India. The forest setting adds a mystical atmosphere, with giant fig trees and monkeys overhead. A small museum displays pottery, coins, and other artifacts unearthed at the site.
Don't miss
- Explore the Great Mosque, one of the largest and best-preserved structures
- See the Palace with its sunken court and pillar tombs
- Visit the on-site museum to view ancient pottery and trade goods
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Ruins of Gedi
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inUltimate Giza Pyramids Tour Private Guide,Camel& Hidden Gems4.9★ · 290 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$7 per personSee dates →
Best full dayFrom Hurghada Legacy Trip–Explore Cairo’s Pyramids & Grand Museum4.8★ · 571 travelers~18 hoursFree cancellationFrom$80 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleThe Pyramids of giza5★ · 67 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →More attractions in Watamu