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Get InspiredAfricaKenyaMombasa CountyMombasa

Mombasa

Mombasa County, Kenya
City·Lively, Historic, Coastal
Mombasa
Photo by Oluwatobi Akindunjoye from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Abdullatif Mutisya from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Wendy Brooks from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Ripe Studios from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Sylvia Szekely from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Oluwatobi Akindunjoye from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Abdullatif Mutisya from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Wendy Brooks from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Ripe Studios from Unsplash
Mombasa
Photo by Sylvia Szekely from Unsplash

Mombasa, the second-largest city in Kenya, is a captivating destination with a unique blend of history and modernity. Its strategic location along the Indian Ocean has made it a significant trading center for centuries, with influences from various cultures. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Mandhry Mosque and enjoy the vibrant local markets. The city's beautiful beaches offer a perfect setting for relaxation and water activities, making Mombasa a must-visit for those seeking both cultural enrichment and leisure.

Mombasa, the second-largest city in Kenya, is a captivating destination with a unique blend of history and modernity. Its strategic location along the Indian Ocean has made it a significant trading center for centuries, with influences from various cultures. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Mandhry Mosque and enjoy the vibrant local markets. The city's beautiful beaches offer a perfect setting for relaxation and water activities, making Mombasa a must-visit for those seeking both cultural enrichment and leisure.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Historic trading center with diverse cultural influences.

  • Beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean.

  • Rich history with landmarks like the Mandhry Mosque.

  • Vibrant local markets and cuisine.

Before you go: Mombasa essentials

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.

  • Diverse cultural influences due to its trading history.

Getting Around

Mombasa has a reliable public transport system with matatus and tuk-tuks being popular options.

Local Cuisine

Try the local Swahili dishes like biryani and pilau for an authentic taste of Mombasa.

Best For

History enthusiasts and beach lovers.

Currency

KES KSh

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Swahili, English

Safety

Be cautious in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables to prevent pickpocketing.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, History Buffs, Beach Goers

Best time to visit Mombasa

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring offers pleasant weather, perfect for exploring historical sites and beaches.

Best Season

Summer

Summers can be hot, but it's a great time for beach activities and water sports.

Best Season

Fall

Fall provides a cooler climate, ideal for sightseeing and cultural tours.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a good time to enjoy outdoor activities without the crowds.

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Location

Mombasa, Mombasa County, Kenya
Open in Maps

Where to stay in Mombasa

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Makwetu Villas

4.0(338)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Relaxed, Family Friendly, Low Key
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Nyali Beach Holiday Resort

4.2(1,4 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Relaxed, Beachfront, Unassuming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Jumeirah Beachfront Apartments, Hotel & Venue Space

4.5(2,2 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Laid Back, Beachfront, Relaxed
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Swahili Social House

4.1(454)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Casual, Relaxed, Social
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bustani Apartment

4.0(508)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Comfortable, Convenient, Urban
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Sai Rock Beach Hotel & Spa

4.0(1,6 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Relaxed, Family Friendly, Beachfront
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bamburi mtambo

4.2(102)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Comfortable, Relaxed, Convenient
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa Mombasa

4.8(16,1 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Relaxed, Casual, Family Friendly

Things to do in Mombasa

4-Day Tsavo East West and Amboseli National Park from Mombasa
From $1,200

4-Day Tsavo East West and Amboseli National Park from Mombasa

4.3(6)
Duration: 96h
Mombasa
2-Day Safari in Taita Hills from Mombasa
From $429

2-Day Safari in Taita Hills from Mombasa

4.9(90)
Duration: 48h
Mombasa
2 DAYS TAITA HILLS SAFARI (Minimum 2 pax)
From $480

2 DAYS TAITA HILLS SAFARI (Minimum 2 pax)

5.0(1)
Duration: 36h 12min
Diani Beach
Full Day Private Tour of Tsavo East National Park from Mombasa
From $310

Full Day Private Tour of Tsavo East National Park from Mombasa

4.6(51)
Duration: 15h
Mombasa
Full day tour in Mombasa
From $127

Full day tour in Mombasa

4.9(52)
Duration: 9h
Mombasa
1 Day Group tour to Tsavo East National Park with Buffet Lunch
From $160

1 Day Group tour to Tsavo East National Park with Buffet Lunch

5.0(7)
Duration: 12h
Mombasa
Overnight Safari Tour to Saltlick Lodge from Mombasa
From $539

Overnight Safari Tour to Saltlick Lodge from Mombasa

5.0(5)
Duration: 48h
Mombasa
2 Days, 1 Night - Tsavo East National Park Safari
From $513

2 Days, 1 Night - Tsavo East National Park Safari

4.4(7)
Duration: 48h
Mombasa
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Mombasa

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Mama Ngina Waterfront

4.5(4,5 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Lively, Scenic, Family Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Fort Jesus Museum

4.4(10,3 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Educational, Historic, Atmospheric, Coastal
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Pembe Za Ndovu – Elephant Tusks

4.4(5,5 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Iconic, Historical, Photogenic
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Nyali beach

4.4(124)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Vibrant, Scenic, Relaxing
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Mamba Village

4.2(1,6 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Playful, Family Friendly, Entertaining
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Mamba Village Crocodile Farm

4.0(206)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Educational, Interactive, Family Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bombolulu Coast Workshop and Cultural Centre

4.1(911)
Mombasa, Wilaya ya Mombasa
Educational, Community Focused, Cultural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Haller Park

4.3(6,2 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Serene, Natural, Wildlife Rich

Natural & historic sites near Mombasa

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Place
Place
Place
Place

Watamu Marine National Park

Kilifi County
Protected Area · Natural, Serene, Conservation Focused
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Arabuko Sokoke National Park

Protected Area · Quiet, Natural, Remote, Pristine

Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve

Mombasa County
Protected Area · Tropical, Natural, Adventurous, Serene
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park

Protected Area · Pristine, Wild, Protected
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Malindi Marine National Park

Kilifi County
Protected Area · Pristine, Protected, Natural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Fort Jesus Museum

4.4(10,3 K)
Mombasa, Mombasa County
Tourist Attraction · Educational, Historic, Atmospheric, Coastal