The Gedi Ruins lie in Kilifi County on the Kenyan coast, at an address simply given as Gedi. They are the remains of an ancient Swahili town, and you may also see the site listed as the Gede Ruins.
The town dates from the 13th to the 17th centuries. What survives is a record of medieval coastal life along the Indian Ocean, and the site is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a place to walk slowly and look closely at how the town was laid out.
What you will see
- House foundations that show how the town's homes were arranged
- A mosque whose remains are well preserved
- Coastal architecture typical of medieval Swahili civilisation
Because the ruins are the main attraction, the visit suits people interested in history, archaeology and African heritage. It is a quiet visit, and the remains are best appreciated by taking time over the foundations and walls rather than rushing from one point to the next.
Planning your visit
The ruins are in Kilifi County, so the surrounding coastal area forms the natural setting for a day trip. If you want to know current arrangements, the site can be reached by phone on +254 42 32371 before you travel.
Visitors who enjoy seeing sites linked to the wider history of the Swahili coast will find Gedi a worthwhile stop in Kilifi County.