Map of Mombasa, Kenya

🌴 What to Do in Mombasa

Experience the vibrant spirit of Mombasa through a variety of activities that cater to every budget. From cultural exploration to thrilling adventures, Mombasa offers something for everyone to enjoy.

• Best Budget Activity in Mombasa:

  Old Town Walking Tour: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Mombasa's Old Town as you wander through narrow streets lined with ancient architecture and vibrant markets.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Mombasa:

  Snorkeling at Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park: Discover the underwater wonders of the Indian Ocean with a snorkeling trip to Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, home to diverse marine life and beautiful coral reefs.

• Best Luxury Activity in Mombasa:

  Sunset Dhow Cruise: Indulge in luxury aboard a traditional dhow as you sail into the sunset, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline while savoring delicious seafood and refreshing drinks.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Mombasa

Mombasa is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of Swahili, Indian, and Arabic culinary delights. Don't miss out on the flavorful biryanis, fresh seafood, and delicious street food that this city has to offer.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Mombasa:

  Forodhani Restaurant•$ - $$:

  Swahili cuisine with a focus on seafood dishes.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Mombasa:

  Moorings Floating Restaurant•$$ - $$$:

  International cuisine with a seafood emphasis and stunning waterfront views.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Mombasa:

  Tamarind Mombasa•$$$ - $$$$:

  Fine dining experience featuring a mix of seafood and continental dishes.

• Best Budget Bar in Mombasa:

  Sheba Lounge•$:

  Try their signature cocktail, the Sheba Sunrise.

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Mombasa:

  Tapas Cielo Lounge•$$ - $$$:

  Indulge in their tapas selection paired with a refreshing mojito.

• Best Luxury Bar in Mombasa:

  Moorings Floating Restaurant Bar•$$$ - $$$$:

  Sip on a glass of champagne while enjoying the panoramic views of the ocean.

🏰 What to See in Mombasa

Mombasa is a city rich in history and culture, boasting an array of iconic landmarks that showcase its diverse heritage. From ancient forts to stunning architectural wonders, Mombasa offers a journey through time for every visitor.

• Fort Jesus:

  Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, Fort Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a symbol of Mombasa's tumultuous past and offers breathtaking views of the harbor.

• Old Town:

  Wander through the charming streets of Old Town, a UNESCO-designated area known for its Swahili architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural scene.

• Haller Park:

  Formerly a limestone quarry, Haller Park is now a lush nature reserve where visitors can interact with wildlife, including giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.

• Mombasa Tusks:

  The Mombasa Tusks, giant elephant tusk arches, are a symbolic entrance to the city and represent the ivory trade that was once prominent in the region.

• Gede Ruins:

  Explore the ancient ruins of Gede, an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Swahili civilization with its remnants of mosques, houses, and tombs dating back to the 12th century.

🛍️ Where to Go Shopping in Mombasa

Indulge in the vibrant shopping scene of Mombasa, where traditional markets and modern malls beckon with a wide array of local crafts, fashion, and souvenirs. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly bargains or luxury finds, Mombasa has something for every shopper.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Mombasa:

  Marikiti Market: Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Marikiti Market, where you can haggle for fresh produce, spices, fabrics, and local crafts at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Mombasa:

  City Mall: Explore City Mall for a mix of local and international brands, offering fashion, accessories, electronics, and a variety of dining options in a convenient location.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Mombasa:

  Nyali Centre: Experience upscale shopping at Nyali Centre, a premium destination housing designer boutiques, jewelry stores, fine dining establishments, and specialty shops catering to discerning tastes.

🚍 Getting Around Mombasa

• Public Transport

  In Mombasa, the primary mode of public transportation is the matatus, which are mini-vans that serve as buses. These matatus operate on set routes and are an affordable way to get around the city. Prices typically range from 20-50 KES depending on the distance. Matatus can be found at designated bus stops throughout the city and run from early morning until late at night. Additionally, Mombasa has a train system known as the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, providing a comfortable and efficient option for traveling between cities.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Mombasa is home to several transportation hubs, including the Mombasa Terminus for the Standard Gauge Railway, where passengers can catch trains to Nairobi and other destinations. For bus travel, the Mwembe Tayari Bus Station is a major hub in the city center, offering connections to various locations within Mombasa and beyond. Moi International Airport serves as the main airport in Mombasa, providing both domestic and international flights.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Popular car rental providers in Mombasa include Avis, Budget, and Europcar. Prices for car rentals typically start at around 3,000 KES per day, varying depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For a more eco-friendly way to explore the city, bicycle rentals are available at various shops and rental companies in Mombasa. Prices for bicycle rentals start at around 500 KES per day, with options for guided tours as well.