Mombasa
rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches.
Mombasa is a coastal city in Kenya, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. It’s the country’s second-largest city and a major economic hub, with a bustling port that has been pivotal to trade in the region for centuries. The city boasts a diverse population, reflecting its long history of interactions with various cultures, including Arab, Portuguese, and British influences. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Fort Jesus, relax on beautiful beaches like Diani Beach, and experience the lively atmosphere of markets and street vendors selling local crafts and cuisine.
By Road Nbo- Mba 488.1 km (8hr 16mins)
Activities
1. Haller Park
6 km from city center1 out of 28, Haller Park is a nature reserve that is a must-visit for all animal lovers. Zebras, hippos, giraffes and more call this nature reserve their home. The park also housed a tortoise that was 130 years old! You can view all the animals and birds and even ask to feed the giraffes.
2.Diani Beach
Diani Beach is one of Mombasa’s most popular beaches for a spot of rest and relaxation. It is a long white sand beach with watersports like windsurfing, sailing, snorkelling, kitesurfing, diving, water-skiing and parasailing. Diani beach also has an excellent nightlife.
3. Fort Jesus
3 km from city center3 out of 28, You cannot leave the city without visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed by an Italian architect, Fort Jesus has become a major tourist attraction. It may not be in the best condition, but the ruins give it an aura of mystery and majesty. It houses a museum with a couple of exhibits as well as Omani House, which displays the jewellery of the Omanis and tells you about how they lived.
4. Mombasa Marine National Park
8 kmfrom city center4 out of 28 ,If you are travelling with children, take them to this marine park. Mombasa Marine National Park is a great place to visit if you want to spot different fish. Take a clear glass bottom boat to get to the park, and on the way, you can view the beautiful world of the waters below. You can dive in for some snorkelling and feed the fish with the help of your instructor or guide.
5. Mombasa Old Town
2 km from city center5 out of 28
Things To Do in Mombasa
Mombasa’s Old Town is a historical town situated on the southeast end of the city next to Tudor Creek. Explore the scenic streets which exude a combined influence of African, Asian and European culture. Head to the antique shops to buy souvenirs, dine at the cafés serving local dishes, taste world-renowned Kenyan coffee and tea, and go clubbing at Avanti or Bella Vista.
6. Nguuni Nature Sanctuary – 6 km from city center6 out of 28
Nguuni Nature Sanctuary is an animal sanctuary and park on the north coast of Mombasa near Nguu Tatu Hills. A 10-minute drive from Bamburi, it is home to diverse African wildlife and offers game drives where one can get glimpses of ostrich, giraffe, eland and oryx. It is popular for camping and has a designated picnic spot.
7. Mamba Village Centre – 3 km from city center12 out of 28
The Mamba Village Crocodile Centre, located in the Nyali region of Mombasa, is the largest crocodile farm in Africa. It is home to over 1,000 young and mature crocodiles, including one of the oldest crocodiles in the world – Big Daddy. There is also a beautiful botanical garden, featuring aquatic plants and orchids, a large aquarium, and a fish farm.
14. Wild Waters – 4 km from city center 14 out of 28
The Wild Waters entertainment park is located in Mombasa, Kenya, and is home to a plethora of rides and activities. This entertainment centre also has a coffee shop, a bar, and a food court. The exclusive range of water slides includes spiral water slides and a fume bowl for adults along with a kids’ pool and a play station area.
15. Mtwapa Creek – 12 km from city center15 out of 28
A serene creek in Mombasa, the Mtwapa Creek is known for its water activities, scenic views and picnic spot. It is an excellent place for fishing and scuba diving owing to its currents and temperature. Visit close to sunset or sunrise when the sky and water are painted in hues of orange and blue. It is an excellent location for photography too.
16. Mombasa Memorial Cathedral
2 km
from city center17 out of 28
The Mombasa Memorial Cathedral is an Anglican Church situated between Nkrumah Road and Cathedral Road in Mombasa. Built during the British colonial times, its architecture resembles a mosque. The white-coloured building has several arches and is topped off with a silver dome.
18. Jumba la Mtwana
16 km
from city center18 out of 28
Jumba la Mtwana is located in Mombasa, close to Mtwapa Creek, and is well known for its archeological relics. The ceramic remnants hint that this ruined village was built sometime in the fourteenth century. The surviving structures amidst the ruins include four mosques, one tomb and four houses.
19. Mombasa Butterfly House
3 km
from city center19 out of 28
One of Africa’s most popular live butterfly exhibits, the Mombasa Butterfly House, is located within the Fort Jesus Museum on Nkrumah Road. It consists of a large variety of butterflies bred and preserved in their natural environment. The best time to visit is in the morning when the butterflies are the most active.
20. Spice Market
2 km
from city center20 out of 28
If you don’t mind crowds and lots of stalls, visit Mombasa’s Spice Market. The market is always filled with lots of people bargaining, shouting at the top of their voices and bustling around. But go here to spot amazing spices like turmeric, curry leaf powder, cardamom, cloves and more. Bargain hard and strike a fair deal to take these spices back home.
24. Mombasa Go Kart
10 km
from city center24 out of 28
The Mombasa Go-Kart is a go-karting facility located on the Mombasa North Coast along Malindi Road. Besides go-karting, there is also paintball, archery, zip-lining, Rodeo Bull Ride, Hi-Strike, 9-pin bowling, VR-Roller Coaster, Racing simulators, bike tours, and more
25. Shimba Hills National Reserve
40 km
from city center25 out of 28
The Shimba Hills National Reserve is located about 33km from Mombasa in what was earlier the Coast Province of Kenya. It is one of the largest coastal rainforests in East Africa and the only area in Kenya where the Sable Antelopes are found. The Sheldrick Falls are also located within the reserve.
28. Bombolulu Workshop & Cultural Center
4 km
from city center28 out of 28
Located in Kisauni district, the Bombolulu Workshop & Cultural Center is an initiative for the differently abled people to come together, train and start a financially independent life for themselves. Building entrepreneurs alongside promoting local art and culture is the aim of Bombolulu Workshop & Cultural Center. People here make jewelry, home décor, handicrafts, tools and equipment among more. Tourists should definitely visit this workshop for a wholesome experience and carry a few souvenirs from them.
Were to stay
1. Hotel English Point Marina & Spa
2. Tamarind Village Hotel
3. Sarova White Sands Beach Resort & Spa
What is the best time to visit Mombasa?
The best time to visit Mombasa is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing, beach activities, and outdoor adventures.