Things To Do
in Mombasa
Mombasa, Kenya sits on the Indian Ocean coast and is famed for its Swahili-influenced culture and coral-stone architecture. The Old Town, with its narrow lanes, carved doors, and bustling harbor, sits beside sunlit beaches and turquoise waters. Its maritime heritage shapes food, music, and everyday life, creating a warm, multicultural atmosphere.
From Fort Jesus to spice markets and dhow sails at sunset, Mombasa offers a rich, immersive coastal experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers insights into Mombasa's colonial history. Wander through the fort's ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the harbor. Afterward, stroll through the narrow streets of Old Town, admiring the beautiful Swahili architecture.
Enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like biryani and fresh seafood. Post-lunch, visit the Old Port and observe the vibrant fishing activities, where you can interact with local fishermen. Conclude your afternoon at the Swahili Cultural Center, where you can learn about the local art and crafts.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a seaside restaurant, feeling the ocean breeze and listening to the waves. After dinner, take a calming walk along the beach, soaking in the night sky and the sound of the ocean. If you're up for it, explore the local nightlife with live music at a nearby bar.
Kick off your day with a refreshing swim at Nyali Beach, known for its soft white sands and clear blue waters. Rent a sunbed and soak up the sun while enjoying a tropical drink from one of the beachside vendors. For the adventurous, try out water sports like jet skiing or parasailing.
Savor a beachside lunch with a view of the ocean, choosing from freshly caught seafood or light salads. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, taking leisurely walks along the shore, or indulging in a beach massage for ultimate relaxation. If you’re feeling energetic, join a beach volleyball game with locals or other tourists.
As evening approaches, enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Indian Ocean, capturing the moment with stunning photographs. Afterward, treat yourself to a beachfront dinner at one of Nyali's popular restaurants, where you can enjoy local specialties. Cap off the night with a stroll on the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥤Soft drink or bottled water | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs/local market shopping | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Swahili and maritime culture
- Delicious seafood and spice markets
- Relatively affordable coastal destination
- Walkable Old Town and scenic beaches
- Humidity and heat can be intense
- Some areas experience petty crime in crowded markets
- Seasonal rainfall may disrupt outdoor plans
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Habari yako?" - How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Ndiyo" - Yes
- "Hapana" - No
- "Samahani" - Sorry/Excuse me
- "Mambo vipi?" - How's it going?
- "Ninaelewa kidogo" - I understand a little Swahili
Places to Visit in Mombasa
Visit one of these nice places.
A 16th-century coastal fortress with white-washed walls and sea-facing cannons—excellent for architectural shots and sunset photography.
Narrow lanes lined with carved wooden doors, lanterns, and pastel shutters—perfect for portrait and street photography.
Promenade views of the harbor and ferry traffic, ideal for golden-hour maritime photography.
Wide sandy stretch with palm silhouettes and a colorful horizon—the quintessential coastline shot.
Green pathways and wildlife, offering nature and wildlife photography opportunities in a coastal setting.
Food in Mombasa
Mombasa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant rice cooked with spices and often served with meat or seafood; a coastal staple found in many Swahili eateries in Old Town.
Must-Try!
Grilled meat (usually beef or goat) served with ugali or chapati; a popular coastal dish frequently enjoyed at beachfront restaurants.
Fish cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, a signature coast dish widely served in coastal restaurants.
Pigeon peas stewed with coconut milk, typically served with rice or ugali for a hearty meal.
A tangy street-food snack featuring a mix of fried dumplings, chickpeas, potatoes, and chutneys in a spiced batter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, spices, and street snacks near the city center.
Local stalls along narrow alleys offering Swahili bites, fresh juice, and quick snacks.
A traditional market area where you can sample fresh fish, vegetables, and coastal specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites out of respect.
A handshake is common; bargaining is expected in markets but done with politeness and a smile.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces.
In many Swahili homes, shoes are removed before entering.
Safety
Tipping in Mombasa
Ensure a smooth experience
5-10% tips are common in restaurants and for hotel staff; rounding up is appreciated for good service.
Cash is widely used; many places accept cards at hotels and some restaurants; mobile money like M-Pesa is popular for small payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with sea breezes; plenty of beach days and strong sun—waterproof sunscreen and hydration are essential.
Heavier rainfall and lush landscapes; plan indoor activities and carry lightweight rain gear.
Intermittent showers and humidity; lower crowds and good travel deals.
Pleasant temperatures, clearer skies, and cooler evenings—great for outdoor exploration and coastal activities.
Mombasa at Night
Hiking in Mombasa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rainforest upland reserve about a 2-hour drive from Mombasa with wildlife viewing and viewpoints.
Coastal forest reserve near Kilifi with network of hiking trails and biodiversity.
Marine reserve near Watamu; ideal for snorkeling and nature walks near the coast.
Airports
How to reach Mombasa by plane.
Mombasa’s main airport; connects domestic flights and a limited number of international routes; taxi or shuttle to town takes 20-40 minutes.
Nearby Diani Beach; convenient for regional flights and quick access to the south coast.
Nairobi’s international gateway; most travelers fly domestic to Mombasa afterward.
Nairobi’s domestic airport for light fixed-wing flights; connects to regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous coastal populations with rich Swahili trade traditions.
Communities that have shaped cuisine, commerce, and culture over centuries.
A mix of Kenyan residents and international travelers attracted to beaches and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team sport; local leagues and street games are common.
Widely played and watched, especially during holidays and the rainy season.
Snorkeling, diving, sailing, and fishing are popular along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mombasa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable curries, veggie pilau, ugali with sukuma wiki; communicate clearly about meat-free options; many vegetarian-friendly spots exist in Old Town and along the Nyali coastline.