Unlocking new horizons: How the Dongo Kundu road will transform coastal tourism

By Hasnain NOORANI

If you’ve ever traveled to Mombasa, you know that the beauty of the coast is matched only by the challenge of getting there.

For years, the Likoni Ferry has been a bottleneck, often turning what should be a quick trip into a test of patience. But with the soon to be completed Dongo Kundu Bypass, that’s all about to change.

This new road is a game-changer for anyone looking to explore the Kenyan coast. It’s not just another infrastructure project; it’s a bridge to a brighter future for tourism in our region.

By providing an alternative to the congested Likoni Ferry crossing, the Dongo Kundu road is making it easier than ever to reach some of our most stunning destinations, like Diani, Tiwi, and Shimoni.

These are places that have always offered an authentic, peaceful coastal experience but were often overlooked due to accessibility. Now, with the new road, those hidden gems are just a smooth drive away.

For the hospitality industry, the implications are significant. At PrideInn Hotels, Resorts & Camps, we anticipate a substantial increase in bookings and footfall at South Coast property.

Improved accessibility will encourage more frequent travel, including weekend getaways and shorter holiday trips, which were previously deterred by the often-time-consuming journey through the Likoni crossing.

This, in turn, will have a ripple effect on local businesses, from restaurants to craft markets, driving economic growth and enhancing the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Beyond tourism, the Dongo Kundu Bypass is set to play a vital role in connecting Mombasa to the rest of East Africa.

By linking the port of Mombasa directly to the Southern Bypass and the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, the road will facilitate seamless movement of goods and services, further boosting trade and commerce. This will attract more businesses to the area, leading to new opportunities and developments that will enrich the region.

As we look to the future, it is clear that the Dongo Kundu Bypass is not just a road— it’s a driver for positive change. Its impact will be felt far beyond the immediate improvements in travel time; it will redefine the tourism landscape of the Kenyan coast, making it more competitive, resilient, and inclusive.

At PrideInn Hotels, Resorts & Camps, we are excited to be part of this journey. We are committed to leveraging this new infrastructure to enhance the experiences of our guests, promote the unique beauty of the coast, and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. The Dongo Kundu road is indeed a game-changer, and we are ready to embrace the opportunities it brings, ensuring that our coast remains a top destination for travelers from all over the world.

Hasnain Noorani is the Managing Director of PrideInn Hotels, Resorts & Camps, a leading hospitality brand in Kenya committed to providing exceptional guest experiences and promoting sustainable tourism.