Bio-Ken is one of East Africa's most important snake research centres, located in Watamu village. The facility houses over 200 live snakes from around 50 species — including mambas, cobras, vipers, and the enormous African rock python. Guided tours let visitors get close to species they are unlikely to see in the wild, and the guides are knowledgeable about both the snakes and the surrounding coastal ecosystem.
The centre carries out anti-venom research and provides treatment for snakebite victims across the coast. It is one of the more unusual things to do in Watamu and well worth the entrance fee, whether or not you have any particular interest in reptiles.