Mombasa is Kenya’s oldest and second-largest city after Nairobi the capital. It is also referred to as the white and blue city, a coastal city along the Indian Ocean. Situated near the equator, Mombasa has variations in temperatures but dominated with high temperatures ranging from 28.8–33.7 °C (83.8–92.7)°F. The city has a tropical wet and dry climate, the amount of rainfall mainly depends on the season. April and May being the rainiest months, while rainfall is minimal between January and February. However, its climate is affected by climatic changes because of being a busy and largest seaport in East Africa. Mombasa’s city has flat relief; its population is approximately 1.5 million as per the 2019 census.
Mombasa is a regional cultural, historical, trading center and economic hub and is an important regional tourism center. It offers travelers an exotic taste of the African tropics steeped in centuries of sea history. This cosmopolitan tourist hub is an island connected by bridges and ferries to the Kenyan coast. Tourists from Europe and beyond flock here to enjoy the many things to do. Some of the tourist attractions include;
Fort Jesus.
It is regarded as Mombasa’s main tourist attractions it was built by 16th-century, a Portuguese military base designed by Italian architect Cairati. It is also a recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was turned into a museum with exhibits include a vast collection of ceramics and pottery reflecting the various cultures that traded along the coast. It also houses jeweler stores that were constructed in the 18th century and displays on Swahili life. The Passage of Arches was cut through the coral to give access to the sea.
The north and south coastal beaches
The city is strategically located along the Indian Ocean which has crystal clear waters, coral reefs, Palm-lined and sand beaches where people go for relaxation. The northern beaches are said to be more fun and exciting with vibrant 24-hour entertainment offers, including both family entertainment (water parks, cinemas, bowling, etc.), sports (watersports, mountain biking, and go-karting), culinary offers (restaurants offering a wide range of specialties from Kenya, China, Japan, India, Italy, Germany, and other countries) and nightlife (bars, pubs, clubs, discothèques, etc.). The Nyali, Bamburi, and Shanzu beaches are located north. The Shelly, Tiwi, and Diani beaches are located south.
The Old Town
This town is filled with the rich cultural diversity of Europeans, Asians, and Arabs, this town’s architecture takes you back to the ancient days of the Portuguese and Arab rule at the coats. Explore this town to see the original beautiful handcrafted door frames and doors and the elegant balconies that stretch over them overlooking the narrow, romantic streets. See the fading remnants of a time when Arabs influenced Swahili culture greatly. The buildings have been turned into curio shops selling antique articles and souvenirs with a particular Kenyan style.
Culture
Mombasa will give you an insight into the city’s traditions, and artwork. While visiting the cultural attractions in Mombasa would prove to be informative, attending its artsy events will leave you entertained. From cultural performances; music is the main feature of Mombasa’s culture. Taarab music, which originates from Zanzibar, has a prominent local presence. Styles of music native to Mombasa include the smooth and mellow Bango, fast-paced Chakacha and traditional Mwanzele. Recently, hip hop, reggae, soul, blues, salsa and (among the Indian community) bhangra have become popular, especially amongst the youth. Mombasa is mainly a tourism center populated by hundreds of entertainment spots of all categories from night clubs, bars, hotels, fancy restaurants and many more
Haller Park
This inspirational project began in 1971 when Dr. René Haller transformed the abandoned limestone quarries here into a thriving nature reserve. Dr. Haller increased the mineral content of the soil, planted trees, added a fish farm, and created a wildlife park where each animal has a function within the flourishing ecosystem. Wildlife found here includes giraffes, Cape buffalo, zebras, waterbucks, and hippos. The park was also home to a famous interspecies couple that became an Internet sensation after the 130-year-old tortoise, Mzee, adopted Owen, an orphaned hippo. There are also birds more than 160 species that have been introduced to the park some of them include; weaver birds, cranes, pelicans, and storks. Walking and cycling paths wind through the groves of casuarina, and a reptile park, palm garden, and crocodile pens are other attractions. Nature trails lead to a butterfly pavilion.
Mombasa Tusks
This common city landmark constructed of aluminum forming letter M the first initial for Mombasa. The tusks commemorate the 1952 Queen Elizabeth’s Visit to Mombasa. They act as an entrance to the city, most banks, shops, and markets are situated near the tusks.
Mamba Village Centre
The largest East African crocodile farm situated in Nyali town, while here, tourists an opportunity get to observe, and learn the behaviors of these amphibians. Other activities done at this center include; horseback riding and visiting the botanical garden with an aquarium, Orchids and aquatic plants. There is also a restaurant that serves game meat such as crocodile, ostrich, and zebra.
Mombasa Go-Kart
Zoom around the smooth concrete track in go-karts, bounce around on the off-road buggies or learn to dig in a Bobcat excavator. After all the excitement, visitors can enjoy a snack at the family-friendly restaurant with computer games, a large playground, and a big screen showing sporting events. The Go-Kart track is floodlit at night.
Bombulu Workshops and cultural center
It is a center for the association of people with disabilities, the funds collected for sustainability. It holds cultural performances for visitors like dances, poems, skits, etc. There is also a restaurant where tourists can enjoy Kenya’s local food. A workshop was a traditional handcraft is made like souvenirs; jewelry, textiles, wood carving, and leather crafts.
Gendi Ruins
Gedi is one of the ancient Arab towns situated in a lush rainforest along the coast of East Africa. Currently the town is in ruins however you can still tour where the Great Mosque, the Palace, coral-stone houses, and pillar tombs have been buried. The houses in Gedi display a traditional Swahili style, and some have ancient drawings on their plaster walls. Ming Chinese porcelain and glass, as well as glazed earthenware from Persia, indicate trade links and a taste for luxury by those who prospered here. These items, as well as Spanish scissors and Swahili cultural artifacts, are on display in the on-site museum.
Mombasa Marine National Park
The park is located in the north of the city, Seahorses, stingrays, and eels are among the marine creatures inhabiting the reserve. some of the activities done here include; Diving and snorkeling from Mtwapa Creek south to the entrance of Likoni Those wishing to remain dry can view the diverse marine life from a glass-bottom boat. The MV Dania is a popular wreck dive here.
Accommodation in Mombasa city
Where to stay should not be your worry once you plan to visit Mombasa, it has a variety of accommodation facilities ranging from luxury, mid-range to budget. They are all strategically located near tourist attractions.
Luxury Hotels:
Sarova White Sands Beach Resort & Spa
It situated in the north of the city on Bamburi Beach, the resort has the most relaxing and comfortable stay in tastefully furnished rooms and suites offering Spectacular Ocean, pool garden views, tennis courts, and a PADI dive center. For dining and entertainment, guests can choose from our themed superb restaurants, the trendy and chic Lido lounge or the exclusive Cocos Beach Bar, overlooking the serene Indian Ocean beach
Dian Reef Beach Resort and Spa
Located by the world-renowned Diani beach over a sprawling and serene area of 34 acres, it is truly a paradise waiting for you with a magical experience. Offering world-class hospitality standards, this beach resort is the perfect destination for beach holidays, corporate and social events and grand weddings. With multi-cuisine dining outlets, bars, well-appointed rooms, and suites, swimming pool and spa,
The Maji Beach Boutique Hotel
Located on the tropical shores of Diani Beach in the southern part of Mombasa. The hotel excellent hospitality with discrete and personalized service. It is indeed a perfect place for a retreat on the beach for honeymooners, couples, friends and solo travelers. Offering an extensive international a la carte menu using local fresh organic ingredients including seafood straight from the ocean and catering for a range of diets including vegetarian, vegan, Lacto and gluten-free, guests can enjoy an all-day dining experience
With 15 luxurious bedrooms and suites, each room is individually designed, furnished and decorated
Serena Beach Resort & Spa
The resort will offer you the tranquility of beachfront escape in the north of the city at Shanzu Beach. It consists of 26 comfortable rooms (9 sea view and 17 courtyard view) with stylish design features offering the perfect combination of a simple and comfortable home away from home. This is the ideal getaway for couples, families, friends, and groups looking to relax and soak up the African sun.
Voyager Beach Resort
Dynamic beach resort overlooking the sparkling white sands of Nyali Beach, it offers 236 spacious cabins with both garden and sea view options for travelers looking to enjoy and explore the liveliest location on Africa’s East Coast. Features multiple pools, water sports, and a kids club and all-inclusive packages are available.
Mid-Range Hotels:
Severin Sea Lodge
It is situated on Bamburi Beach offering excellent value and quality accommodation. 188 hotel rooms, spread over different categories, the authentic African way of life is waiting for you. Two lovely swimming pools peek out from palm-studded gardens. Friendly service with cordiality characterizes our hotel staff welcoming you with delicious culinary highlights for all tastes. Diverse entertainment and sports facilities, excursion programs
Also, value-packed is nearby with warm and friendly service. highly skilled chefs will give you Ranging from local Swahili dishes to Indian, Italian and more international cuisines.
Budget Hotels:
Best western plus Creekside hotel
Situated on the tidal Tudor creek in Kenya’s historical city of Mombasa, the hotel boasts 100 rooms and suites, a bar, restaurant, fitness center and pool garden overlooking the estuary of a river into the Indian Ocean. A reliable and passionate team of local and international professionals from the ground-up, instilling discipline, growing standards and fostering a sense of family. The conference hall caters to a wide range of meeting needs from intimate gatherings, to executive board sittings and large conferences. It also has lush event gardens for intimate functions.
Kahama Hotel
It is situated within lush tropical gardens of the coast, it consists of 32 large, fully air-conditioned, newly renovated and tastefully decorated rooms that are equipped with en-suite. The facility offers tranquility and relaxation, especially around a large swimming pool. A well-stocked bar and restaurant. In its vicinity, there are many watersports, go-karting, nature, and nightclubs.
Book with us the best coastal experience to Mombasa and relax at one of the world’s best beaches in Kenya.
Engagi Safaris is a reliable tour operator, with professional staff. Our tour consultants are well trained with a passion, to help you understand all the details about the safaris you wish to inquire about.We have the best drivers and guides who are very highly skilled and knowledgeable about all aspects of tourism, and you can be rest assured that you will have a wonderful experience.
