The historic heart and the most authentic essence of the Kenyan coast
Mombasa, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, is one of Kenya's most striking destinations and a perfect starting point for exploring the country's east coast. The city is located on Mombasa Island, a coral island of about 5 km² separated from the mainland by two rivers, Tudor Creek and Kilindini Harbour, and on the mainland, connected by the Nyali Bridge.
The oldest and second largest city in the country (after Nairobi), with over a thousand years of history and a unique multicultural heritage, it fascinates with its atmosphere suspended between past and present, in which Swahili traditions are mixed with Arab, Portuguese, Indian and British influences. Renowned as a beach destination, it enjoys a tropical climate all year round and offers fantastic activities for all ages.
A crossroads of cultures and architecture
The beating heart of Mombasa is the historic district of the Old Town, an intricate maze of narrow streets, carved wooden balconies and ancient buildings with ornate facades that evoke the Swahili style and recall a past of ancient influences. Walking through the neighborhood among Portuguese and Islamic architecture is like taking a journey through time among historic mosques, sculptures, typical spice markets and artisan shops that tell centuries of trade and meetings of peoples.
It is the ideal place to stop also for shopping for jewelry, handmade fabrics, antiques, spices, typical Kenyan souvenirs but also for gastronomic stops in typical restaurants where you can taste traditional Swahili dishes.
Dominating the city is the famous Fort Jesus, built by the Portuguese between 1593 and 1596 and later used by the Arabs as a torture chamber with prison cells and, in 2011, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The imposing fortress, with walls and five bastions, houses a Museum rich in collections with historical artifacts but also offers panoramic views of the port, testifying to the strategic role that Mombasa has played for centuries as a commercial hub between Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
The landmark and symbol of the city are the characteristic Mombasa Elephant Tusks on Moi Avenue which were built in 1952 to celebrate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II of England. Made of aluminum, they form two arches on each side of the road, creating the shape of an "M", Mombasa's initial.
Also of particular beauty is the scenic promenade of Mama Ngina Drive, three kilometers long, ideal for a picnic in the well-kept gardens or to admire a breathtaking view of the sea, with ships entering and leaving the port.
Among the notable religious architectures you can visit the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, a neo-Romanesque Catholic church flanked by two bell towers, the Swahili-style Mandhry Mosque (one of the oldest in Kenya, built in the sixteenth century) in the Old City and the New Dwarikadham Temple, a Hindu temple on Beach Road in the Nyali District.
Postcard beaches and natural paradises
Mombasa is also synonymous with crystal clear sea, coral reefs, palm trees and white sandy beaches. North of Mombasa on the mainland, Nyali Beach is a perfect expanse for those who love privacy, relaxation and water sports. To the north, the beaches of Bamburi and Shanzu also offer a lively atmosphere and several resorts.
Bamburi Beach is also known as the beach of souvenirs for the many items on sale but also for the trips in glass-bottomed boats to better admire the ocean. Further south are the beaches of Shelly Beach (the closest to the center), the quiet Tiwi Beach and Diani Beach, the most famous and loved for its elegance and for the coral reef that protects the waters creating natural pools ideal for snorkeling.
Diani Beach is located about 30 kilometers from Mombasa and is a true natural paradise with 17 kilometers of white sandy beach overlooking an emerald blue sea. In Dani you can do various activities such as visiting its National Marine Park, diving among tropical fish and coral reefs or spotting whale sharks.
Very special, the day trip on a dhow boat (the traditional Swahili sailing boat) to Wasini Island to admire dolphins and sea turtles. Dani is also the ideal place to practice windsurfing and kitesurfing, riding the waves moved by the trade winds in a warm and shallow turquoise sea. In addition, the beach offers spectacular sunsets to be admired while sipping a cocktail in the many quaint cafes and bars on the coast.
About 50 kilometers from Diani Beach you can enjoy another unique experience swimming with dolphins in the splendid Marine Reserve of Kisite, among the wonders of the sea, also spotting fish, sea turtles, whales and corals. For an even more authentic experience, a sunset dhow ride on the Kilindini Canal is not to be missed.
Near Diani on the mainland, you can venture on guided hikes through sacred forests, a monkey sanctuary, a turtle information center, and the Shimba Hills. The beautiful Shimba Hills National Reserve features a coastal rainforest, full of woodlands, grasslands, birds, butterflies, orchids, elephants, leopards, and endangered Kenyan black antelopes.
About 10 kilometers from Mombasa, nature lovers can visit the Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve, where you can discover colorful coral gardens, sea turtles and a surprising variety of tropical fish and marine species, including crabs, sea urchins, starfish, as well as sandy beaches and ideal spots for snorkeling and diving. Also not to be missed is a visit to the Mombasa Butterfly House, a natural beauty that is home to tropical butterflies.
Mamba Village is also worth a stop, home to one of the largest crocodile farms in East Africa, while lovers of greenery can stroll through the gardens of Haller Park, a former quarry site turned nature reserve with giraffes, hippos and tropical birds.
There is also the opportunity to dive into Kenya for a splendid and adventurous safari. The closest place to Mombasa to go on safari is Tsavo East National Park, about 173 km northeast of the city. The safari allows you to admire the many different natural beauties of the place: the Galana River, the Yatta plateau, dry plains, natural pools and dams and, of course, spot lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffaloes but also hippos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, crocodiles, hyenas, gazelles and birds in their natural habitat.
Further afield, about 430-450 km by road to the northwest of Mombasa, there is also Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya, near the border with Tanzania, at the foot of Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in Africa). By car, the trip takes an average of 8-9 hours from Mombasa and you can do combined safaris Mombasa + Tsavo East + Amboseli, departing from the coast and staying overnight in lodges inside or on the edge of the park, to experience the great African mammals in the savannah with Kilimanjaro in the background.
Markets, street food and Swahili cuisine
The famous Mombasa Spice Market is a riot of scents: cinnamon, cloves, ginger and cardamom that recall Mombasa's long history as a spice port. The indoor market is located between Nehru and Langoni Road in the Old City.
And, for those who love street food, Mombasa is a real mecca thanks to its teeming markets and the liveliest corners that offer an incredible range of aromas and flavors. In the heart of the Old Town, among alleys steeped in history, you can enjoy authentic Swahili specialties such as mahamri, soft fried bread with a sweet taste, viazi karai, fried potatoes wrapped in a crispy spicy batter, and mishkaki, succulent skewers of grilled meat.
Among the restaurants and stalls of the city, the street food of Mombasa offers an intense and genuine gastronomic experience, a perfect reflection of the lively and colorful local culture. Also not to be missed is a walk along the picturesque promenade of Mama Ngina Drive, where stalls overlooking the sea offer freshly caught fish, roasted meat and typical snacks such as cassava chips and bhajias, fragrant potato pancakes enriched with local spices.
For those who want to discover the most authentic flavors of East Africa, the Mwembe Tayari area is a point of reference: here you can taste the soft chapati, traditional flat bread, stuffed samosas and the timeless nyama choma, slow-cooked grilled meat rich in taste.
Swahili cuisine
Swahili cuisine, considered one of the world's first fusion cuisines, offers a colorful mix of African, Arabic, and Asian flavors. Mombasa's Swahili restaurants take you on an authentic gastronomic journey through the intense aromas and flavours of the East African coast. Among the most popular specialties are biryani (rice prepared with spices, meat, fish, eggs or vegetables) and pilaf (special cooking of rice enriched with spices, dried fruit, vegetables or meat), along with seafood dishes such as grilled fish and coconut curries (rice cooked in coconut milk - wali wa nazi - accompanied by curry dishes, meat, fish and vegetables), a symbol of local cuisine. Prepared with fresh ingredients and a skillful use of spices, Swahili dishes offer an immersive dining experience.
And, at night, the city comes alive with Swahili music and dance, with traditional taarab sounds that tell stories of love and sea. There are several places where you can stop for a dinner, even a romantic candlelight on the beach, or spend a lively evening sipping tea, refreshing coconut milk "madafu", millet or corn beer, local palm wine "tembo" or a typical alcoholic "pombe".
Texts by Lisa Maria River, Avion Tourism Magazine
Photos and visuals for editorial use only: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
All rights reserved. Reproduction is prohibited. Copyright © Sisterscom.com
| AIRPORT COMPANY | OUTBOUND | FLIGHT | RETURN FLIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|
| flydubai | DUBAI | Transit at the airport of 11h | 4h airport transit |
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Where to stay in Mombasa
Mombasa offers various possibilities for accommodation in facilities equipped with the best services.
To find the ideal hotel and advantageous offers, you can search by stars but also by places of interest.
TOURS & EXCURSIONS IN MOMBASA
In Mombasa, every excursion becomes an encounter with nature and the history of the Swahili coast. The most exciting experiences are lived between the ancient city, the sea and nature safaris. In the heart of the city, a stroll through the alleys of the Old Town reveals ancient palaces, carved gates and spice markets, while the majestic Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tells the story of centuries of domination and trade on the Indian Ocean.
Sea lovers can set sail on a traditional dhow or cruise boat to the turquoise waters of the Mombasa Marine Park, where you can snorkel among corals and tropical fish.
For those who dream of a safari in the savannah without going too far, the Tsavo East National Park, about two and a half hours by road from Mombasa, is the ideal destination: here you can admire elephants with typical reddish shades, lions, giraffes and wild fauna that lives in total freedom in its natural habitat. An excursion that offers the pure emotion of Africa, a short distance from the white beaches of the Kenyan coast.
Partnership with GetYourGuide
Mombasa old town tour, tuk tuk ride and Mamangina beach
Tour with a professional tour guide to see: the Fort Jesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and its Museum; the Old City characterized by narrow streets and Swahili architecture; the Mandhry Mosque; the Marikiti spice market; the tusks symbol of Mombasa; tuk tuk ride in Mombasa (from the spice market to the tusks to the Mamangina); Mamantina beach. Hotel pickup and drop-off. Duration: 3 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Book now.
Cruise from Mombasa to Kisi Marine Park and visit to Wasisni Island
Private boat cruise. Snorkeling and diving in the Kisite Marine National Park and sailing for about an hour in search of dolphins. Swahili breakfast on board. Sightings of turtles, sea turtles, coral reefs, and different types of marine fish. Sail to Wasisni Island with a seafood lunch and Swahili dishes. Guided tour of Wasini Island with a visit to the coral garden, mangrove forest and fishing village. Alternatively, relax at the restaurant overlooking the sea. Return to the mainland and guided tour of the Shimoni Slave Caves. Snorkeling and diving equipment. Hotel pickup and drop-off. Duration: 8 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Book now.
1-day safari in Tsavo East National Park from Mombasa
With an expert guide, day safari in Tsavo East, one of Kenya's iconic national parks, departing from Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi or Malindi. Photo-safari among elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes and birds. Packed lunch. Hotel pickup and drop-off. Duration: 10 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Book now.
2-day safari in Tsavo East National Park
Two-day safari to Tsavo East Ngutuni Sanctuary from Mombasa with overnight at Ngutuni Safari Lodge overlooking waterholes and photo-safari in the sanctuary. Includes: hotel pickup and drop-off (Diani Beach, Mombasa, Kilifi, Watamu and Malindi) and full board. Duration: 2 days. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Book now.
3-day safari in Tsavo East and Amboseli Parks
Three days of Tsavo East and Amboseli safari from Diani/Mombasa. Includes: experienced and qualified driver-guide, full board, entrance fees to the parks (Tsavo East National Park and Amboseli National Park), hotel pickup and drop-off. Duration: 3 days. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Book now.
All tours and excursions
