- Country
- Kenya
- Region
- Mombasa County, Kenyan coast
- Type
- Beach Holiday
- Best months to visit
- Jul–Oct, Dec–Mar
Overview
Mombasa is Kenya’s historic port city, built on an island and shaped by over a thousand years of trade across the Indian Ocean. Its Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, carved wooden doors and spice-scented markets.
The beaches of Nyali, Bamburi and Shanzu lie just north of the city.
- Fort Jesus (UNESCO)
- Old Town walking tour
- Swahili cuisine
- North coast beaches
What you'll see
Fort Jesus (a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese in the 1590s), Swahili, Arab and Indian architecture, and lively markets.
Wildlife you may see
- Dolphin
- Sea turtle
Things to do
- 01
Old Town and Fort Jesus tour
A guided walk through history, architecture and markets.
- 02
Swahili cooking
Learn to cook coastal dishes with local cooks.
- 03
Sunset dhow cruise
A traditional dhow trip around the island at sunset.
Best time
- Jan: Great time
- Feb: Great time
- Mar: Great time
- Apr: Possible
- May: Possible
- Jun: Possible
- Jul: Great time
- Aug: Great time
- Sep: Great time
- Oct: Great time
- Nov: Possible
- Dec: Great time
December to March and July to October; it is warm and humid all year.
Getting there
About 1 hour by air from Nairobi, or around 5 hours on the Madaraka Express train.
Where to stay
Luxury
Upmarket resorts on the north coast beaches.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
Comfort
Beach hotels in Nyali and Bamburi.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
Budget
City hotels and guesthouses.
We'll suggest camps and lodges that fit your dates and budget.
