Things to do in Mombasa 2024 – 2025 : There are lots of things to do in Mombasa. Let’s start with a little background knowledge before we get into them. Located in the Indian Ocean, Mombasa is the capital of the larger Mombasa County, which also includes a number of other neighbouring smaller islands. Located on Kenya’s east coast, Mombasa is the country’s second-biggest urban area after Nairobi. Initially, Mombasa was known as “Manbasa,” which translates to “an island of war.” This was due to the fact that the island served as the epicentre for innumerable conflicts involving early settlers (Arabs, Portuguese, Locals, and British).
The Mijikenda and Swahili are the island’s indigenous people. Due to mixed marriages between the locals and the early settlers (Portuguese, Arabs, Omanis, Indians, and Chinese), the Mijikenda are black and the Swahili are brown. The legacy of intermarriages provides distinctive communities, cuisines, and architectural styles such as mosques and temples. It also leaves behind a unique blend of cultures. With an international airport and one of the busiest ports in Africa, Mombasa has developed into one of East Africa’s economic hubs due to her natural beauty, cultural diversity, and long history as a trading hub. Kenya’s mainland, Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are among the landlocked nations in East Africa that are connected to the Indian Ocean through Mombasa.
Kenya safari tourists can enjoy the rich maritime traditions, coral reefs, water sports, seafood, stunning hotels, architectural marvels, and white sand/palm tree beaches of Mombasa. Travellers often return home after visiting various locations just to learn about new experiences and sights. The specifics will be covered in the upcoming chapters. However, before you do anything else, you might want to read an essay about the tourist attractions in Zanzibar or Kinshasa, Congo. Even a thorough post about Kenya’s tourist sites is available here.
Mombasa’s Kenya safari Attractions
Fort Jesus
Without a question, one of Mombasa’s most popular tourist destinations is Fort Jesus. The Portuguese constructed it between 1593 and 1596, and it is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Fort is a well-preserved military fortress that serves as a reminder of the major conflicts that the Portuguese, Arabs, British, and native people fought in the sixteenth century. It was created in the form of a man by Italian architect Cairati. Most of it is still there, however some pieces are now destroyed. The garrison’s main barracks houses the museum. When you visit this site, be ready to see the Portuguese cannons that were used to protect the island in the sixteenth century while you take in breathtaking views of the surrounding area, the Indian Ocean, and the turquoise waters.
Visit the Mombasa Town
You should visit Mombasa’s Old Town to gain a better understanding of the lifestyle that the Portuguese traders led at the period. You can get a sense of the way things were in this town during the Portuguese occupation of the island. The architectural designs of the antique buildings, which include unique entrances and stylish balconies, will astound you. The old buildings feature a variety of architectural styles, not just Portuguese. At various times, the town was held by Arabs, Europeans, and Asians as well; they left behind homes and mosques. The perfect way to end your day in the old town is to stop by one of the gift stores and pick up some antiques or scented oils for your loved ones.
Visit Mama Ngina Drive
Mama Ngina Drive is a place to think about if you have some free time in the evening and are looking for somewhere to unwind as the sun sets. You may observe the many ship kinds that dock in Mombasa at the picturesque park. In order to kill time and keep track of how many ships are coming into and going out of the nation, a large number of the locals visit Mama Ngina. When visiting at the appropriate time of year, the volume of ships can be quite dense. The location occasionally sees large crowds, however security is in place. If you get hungry while at the park, you may grab some delicious sea cuisine and soft beverages at one of the nearby eateries.
Swimming with dolphins
The beaches on the north coast, such as Shanzu, Bamburi, and Nyali, are easily recommended due to their proximity to the airport and the city itself. These stunning beaches feature crystal-clear waters and lush green palm trees. One can engage in a variety of water sports, such as deep-sea fishing and diving, or just take a leisurely stroll along the beaches, taking in the refreshing sea breeze and the sight of blue waters and white sand.
Once you’ve visited every beach on the north coast, you may also check out beaches like Diani and Tiwi on the south coast. The stunning shoreline and lush vegetation seen on the beaches in the south are complemented by wider swimming areas, vibrant coral reefs, and a rainforest. Activities include windsurfing, kite surfing, sailing, diving, water skiing, and snorkelling. Travellers love Diani Beach since it’s regarded as one of the best in the world and is comparatively well-developed. You could find Tiwi beach more fascinating if you enjoy snorkelling and sunbathing. There are excellent hotels, pubs, and restaurants serving delicious seafood at each of these beaches.
The island of Wasini is a great place for those looking for an even more daring Kenya safari adventure. Here is where Kenya safari visitors can swim with dolphins. You must utilise a ship or large boat to get there.
Stroll along the lovely nature trails Mombasa’s many islands are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. In addition to the stunning landscape and native flora that border the beaches, visitors can see animals including birds, reptiles, and monkeys. For those who like to take in the island’s breathtaking beauty and landscape, the nature paths near the Mombasa–Malindi highway are highly recommended.
Take a Dhow Cruise or Take a Ferry Ride The Indian and Red Seas are home to these distinctively built vessels. You can find them luxuriously equipped in Mombasa. When you watch the sun set and wait to eat beneath the moonlight, you can rent one to explore the water. Considering the rivalry among dhow suppliers, hiring the boats doesn’t cost too much. If you wish to cut expenses, you can sail in a group. You may be able to carry part of your supplies and have more space, depending on the type of boat you rent. If you are interested in ferries, the one that transports people from the island of Mombasa to the southern coast is the one you should take. Because the prices are cheap, there are lots of people there, but you can also enjoy free entertainment and socialise with other tourists and locals. Whether you opt to take a dhow or a ferry, don’t forget to pack snacks and beverages.
