The 'unbelievably beautiful' African hidden gem full of natural 'swimming pools'

Travellers have been told of a "beautiful" place to visit in , where you can swim in caves. posted a clip of their trip on TikTok, telling viewers: "Let me let you in on a hidden gem. This is . Tiwi Beach, Mombasa. Visit the African Map swimming pool. This place is unbelievably beautiful." They added: "I didn't get the best videos. It has different natural maps of continents and these maps are swimming pools. And so many caves to swim from."

The location has also been touted on Tripadvisor, with one user, Linda Gitau, who calls themself an African global content creator and social activist, posting: "The most amazing experience, here you'll get to see the Congo river pouring into the Indian Ocean at Congo beach." But they warned: "Be careful of as you walk through the ocean towards the Map of Africa pool. Also I recommend you get a guide, there's a few of them at Congo beach. You can pay them $20 for the guide. The pool is deep enough to jump from the top."

As regards travel to Kenya, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has some active safety advice. It says on its website that, due to the risk of terrorism from groups based in Somalia, people should avoid all but essential travel to: within 60km of Kenya's border with Somalia, Eastern Garissa County, up to 20km north-west of the A3 road, including the Boni National Reserve; Mandera County, excluding Mandera West sub-county; Lamu County, excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island; Tana River County north of the Tana River, up to 20km north-west of the A3 road; and within 15km of the east coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River.

Officials add: "There have been frequent attacks in the north-eastern border regions, most of which were attributed to Al Shabaab.

"Attacks have killed members of the Kenyan security forces as well as civilians.

"The Kenyan security forces have increased their presence in the affected areas. Armed militia groups operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the border with Somalia."

Some who has travelled to Kenya has also urged fellow Reddit users four months ago that Kenyan culture is "warm and welcoming", but it is "important to be respectful".

They added: "A simple greeting, such as 'Habari' (Hello) or 'Jambo' (How are you?), goes a long way in making a positive impression.

"Before taking photos of people, it's always best to ask for permission. Also, when visiting local communities like Maasai villages, you might be asked for a small donation or gift, but there's no need to feel obligated to give excessively.

"Dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in places like Lamu, where the predominantly Muslim culture encourages covering shoulders and knees."