The fastest way to get from Nairobi to the South Coast, of course, is by flying to Ukunda/Diani Beach. Driving down by car is a whole day's trip, but at least you need not necessarily pass through Mombasa - although the Dongo-Kundu bypass has significantly shortened the jouney time. If you are looking for a less busy road without the risk of traffic jams,  turn off the Mombasa highway in Samburu, and then drive through the Shimba Hills.

The 50 km stretch up to Kinango has been completely tarred, and the driving time is  just 45 minutes.  In Kinango turn left at the T-junction and shortly after to the right, then passing by the market place and a petrol station.

The remaining bumpy 23 km to Kwale will lead you towards the Shimba Hills, up the slopes and towards the main gate of the National Park. Roadworks are ongoing here, but were still unfinished by early 2025. Especially behind Mwache Dam, the uphill track towards Kwale Town can be challenging in rainy season (4x4 only!).

In Kwale and downhill towards the ocean you are on tarmac again, for the remaining 50 km. When you reach the coast road A14 at Kombani, turn right, pass through Ukunda, and from there it is just 25 minutes more to Msambweni.