Mombasa Holidays

Venture east of Nairobi and you'll uncover the captivating coastal city of Mombasa, Kenya. Renowned for its mingled cultural heritage and the stunning backdrop of clear, blue Indian Ocean waters, Mombasa promises travellers an extraordinary escapade to remember.

Mombasa's intriguing past as the former capital of British East Africa, its world-class beaches, mouth-watering markets, and diverse neighbourhoods make it a bucket-list must. By the end of this guide, you'll be eager to book your dream Mombasa getaway.

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Things to See and Do

Mombasa offers a treasure trove of experiences, from exploring its rich history to pushing your boundaries with thrilling activities. Here are a few standout options guaranteed to make your vacation memorable.

Visit the captivating Mamba Village Centre

Immerse yourself in the wonders of African wildlife at the Mamba Village Centre. Take their educational tour and marvel at the largest crocodile farm in Africa. Here, you'll come face-to-face with these fascinating creatures and learn about their importance to the local ecosystem.

Walk the ramparts of Fort Jesus Museum

Built by the Portuguese in 1593, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fort Jesus Museum takes you back to a different era. Glean insights into the city's past as you tread ancient pathways, and don't miss the compelling artefacts from the era of slave trade.

Connect with nature at Haller Park

Once a limestone quarry, Haller Park now stands as an ecological marvel. Discover a rich diversity of plant and animal species in this reclaimed space, providing a stunning lesson in the power of rehabilitation and conservation.

Soak up the sun at Nyali Beach

Located in the upmarket residential region of Nyali, Nyali Beach offers visitors a chance to indulge in aquatic sports like windsurfing and scuba diving, or simply enjoy the fine white sand beneath their feet.

Embark on an exploration of Old Town

Experience the soul of Mombasa in its Old Town, with its labyrinth alleyways, baroque balconies, and spice-filled air. This district's beautiful architecture bears the cultural imprints of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences, painting a vivid picture of the city's storied past.

Food and Drink

In Mombasa, the cuisines are as rich and varied as its cultures. Sample traditional Kenyan dishes, enjoy fresh seafood delicacies, or get a taste of international flavours.

Munch on mahamri and kaimati

These traditional Kenyan doughnuts are deliciously sweet and typically accompanied by a cup of Kenyan chai. Many roadside stalls and local cafés offer these treats and, believe us, you'll find it hard to stop at just one.

Gorge on grilled seafood

Make your way to any beachside restaurant in Mombasa and order their grilled seafood. Whether it's red snapper, king fish or lobster, each is spiced to perfection and cooked to deliver a mouth-watering burst of flavours.

Savour pilau and biryani

Influence of the Indian sub-continent is evident in the local food, with pilau and biryani taking centre stage. These aromatic rice dishes are cooked with a selection of spices and served with a side of raita, delivering a delectable gastronomic experience.

Try out nyama choma

Nairobi might be known for its nyama choma, but Mombasa holds its own when it comes to this succulent and spiced grilled meat. Best enjoyed with kachumbari, a tangy tomato and onion salad, and ugali, a staple cornmeal pudding, it's a plate full of comfort.

Dive into the world of Swahili dishes

While in Mombasa, don't miss out trying out the rich range of Swahili dishes, like samaki wa kupaka (fish in coconut sauce), mchuzi wa pweza (octopus curry), and ugali ya nazi (coconut rice). Each dish carries a symphony of flavours, turning every meal into a feast.

Destination Essentials

Kick-start your planning by figuring out the best time to visit Mombasa. If perfect weather is at the top of your list, consider the long dry season from July to October. During this season, the temperatures average around a pleasant 32 degrees Celsius, ideal for beach-side relaxation and city exploration.

If you're keen on a more budget-friendly holiday, discounted rates are available during the long and short rainy seasons from April through June, and November to mid-December. Despite the occasional rain, Mombasa's rich cultural and historical offerings remain ever enticing. For those seeking fewer crowds, quieter beaches, and green landscapes highlighted by the rains, visiting off-peak can be a travel treasure.

Beaches

The Mombasa shoreline, with its pristine sandy beaches, is the city’s crowning glory. These shores welcome every kind of traveller, offering both tranquility and adventurous pursuits.

Nyali Beach

Relax at Nyali Beach: Set against modern amenities and luxury resorts, Nyali Beach is popular among both local and foreign tourists. The endless expanse of sandy shore is interspersed with water activities like kite surfing, jet skiing, and windsurfing.

Mombasa Beach

Discover Mombasa Beach: Being the number one tourist destination in Kenya, Mombasa Beach is famous for its gorgeous beaches and a thriving marine life. Luxurious hotels line the coast, making it a favourite among luxury seekers.

Bamburi Beach

Experience Bamburi Beach: With views of the Indian Ocean, Bamburi Beach promises sun, sand, and a dash of African culture. The beachfront hotel offers a blend of modern amenities with an oriental charm and is an ideal place for travellers seeking calm.

Shanzu Beach

Delight in Shanzu Beach: Shanzu Beach is a tranquil haven for a quiet family outing. Its serene shoreline and laid-back environment make it an ideal spot for unwinding and enjoying the tropical Mombasa sun.

Diani Beach

Visit Diani Beach: Reputed for its beautiful coral reefs, underwater sandbars, and widespread palm vegetation, Diani Beach is a picturesque paradise for nature and beach lovers alike. The beach also offers various water activities like snorkeling and dolphin spotting.

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