In the room
The experience
Beneath the Baobabs takes place over New Year on a 50-acre site in Kilifi, on Kenya's Indian Ocean coast. It began as Kilifi New Year and now takes its name from the place itself: the grove of baobabs that frames the stages. The music runs from house and Afro house into more experimental sets, with art and performance around it. The nights run late, and the best moments tend to come as the sky lightens over the trees and the creek.
Insider tip
Walk in knowing
Stay for sunrise by the baobab grove, when the light comes through the trees and the sets slow down.
Why it fits
Why it is in the atlas
A New Year festival where the setting, a baobab grove by the Indian Ocean, is as much the reason to go as the line-up.
Plan the trip
When to go, hours, getting there
Best time to go
Held over New Year (in earlier years 30 December to 1 January) on a 50-acre site in Kilifi on Kenya's Indian Ocean coast. As of 10 November 2026 the organiser lists no 2026/27 edition, so check beneaththebaobabs.com before planning.
Hours
Annual New Year festival with camping on site; see beneaththebaobabs.com for gates and programme. Kisima Festival, also in Kilifi, runs earlier in the year.
Getting there
Fly to Mombasa (MBA), then drive about 90 minutes north along the coast road to Kilifi. Check beneaththebaobabs.com for transport options and gate times.
FAQ
Questions people ask
Where is Beneath the Baobabs?
Beneath the Baobabs is in Kilifi Creek, Kenya. Coordinates: -3.6333, 39.8500.
Is Beneath the Baobabs the same as Kilifi New Year?
Yes. The festival used to be called Kilifi New Year and now runs as Beneath the Baobabs, over 30 December to 1 January.
What kind of music is at Beneath the Baobabs?
House, Afro house and experimental music, with art and performance around it, over three days and nights at New Year.
When is the best time to visit Beneath the Baobabs?
Annual, over New Year: the organiser lists 30 December to 1 January, on a 50-acre site in Kilifi on Kenya's Indian Ocean coast. Check beneaththebaobabs.com for the year's programme.
How do I get to Beneath the Baobabs?
Fly to Mombasa (MBA), then drive about 90 minutes north along the coast road to Kilifi. Check beneaththebaobabs.com for transport options and gate times.
Why is Beneath the Baobabs in the Sonic Paths atlas?
A New Year festival where the setting, a baobab grove by the Indian Ocean, is as much the reason to go as the line-up.
