MOMBASA: Best Things to do in Mombasa

What is Mombasa best known for?

Mombasa is an Island town, situated at the Eastern seaboard of Africa founded on the pristine white beaches, is the second city of Kenya and top premier tourist destination

Mombasa offers numerous activities and attractions and famously known for its diverse culture of Kiswahili, Arabic and Persian influence of many ages.

Landmarks like Fort Jesus and the Old Town reflect its historical significance.

Visit some of the historical landmarks like Fort Jesus or relax on the beaches of Nyali, Shanzu and Diani.

Is Mombasa worth visiting?

Mombasa is worth visiting if you love history, culture, and natural beauty. You can explore historical landmarks like Fort Jesus or relax on beaches such as Nyali and Diani.

Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences,

Mombasa has something for everyone given her iconic beauty, warm and humid climate under golden tropical sun, sandy beaches and Swahili culture fused with Afro musical sounds, languages and food varieties makes her awesome place to visit.

Things to do in Mombasa include exploring historical landmarks like Fort Jesus or relaxing on beaches like Nyali, Diani Bamburi.

You will learn about the past at Fort Jesus, early voyagers, Omani Arab Sultanate, British arrival, explore the streets of Old Town, relax on the beaches of Nyali and Diani or visit the Mombasa Marine Park.

Key takeaways

Mombasa is a top tourist destination in Kenya. It offers a mix of historical landmarks, culture, and beautiful beaches.

Top attractions include Fort Jesus, Old Town, Mombasa Tusks on Moi Avenue, and Mama Ngina Waterfront.

The best beaches in Mombasa include Diani Beach, Nyali Beach, Bamburi Beach, Tiwi Beach, Shanzu Beach, and Pirates Beach.

Nature parks and wildlife venues include Haller Park, Mombasa Marine National Park, Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, Mamba Village Centre, and Bamburi Nature Trail.

Things to do in Mombasa

Mombasa, Kenya's second-largest city, sits along the expansive Indian Ocean, East coast of Africa, in Mombasa County. Known for its memorable past, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches,

Mombasa offers something for everyone. Locals and foreigners can explore historical landmarks like Fort Jesus and unwind on the pristine shores of Nyali and Diani beaches.

Here are must-see sights and activities below according to Trip Advisor and similar sites:

1. Old Town; Wander through Mombasa Island

Mombasa Old Town is over 2000 years old and is famous for its Swahili buildings, influenced by Arab, Portuguese, and British architecture. The Old Town has rich history, culture, and architecture.

Walk its streets, through the colorful Swahili buildings, influenced by Arab, Portuguese, and British cultures. Don't miss the Old Port, where traditional dhows still sail, and the Sultan's Palace, decorated with intricate carvings is show casing widely.

2. Explore Fort Jesus

Visit Fort Jesus to learn about its past secrets through its interactive museum.

Visit Fort Jesus to learn about its past secrets through its interactive museum.

Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a tourist hotspot with a rich past.

Built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century to safeguard their trade routes, the fortress takes visitors into the past. Fort Jesus has an interactive museum showcasing various artefacts, from weapons to traditional crafts.

3. Adventure to the pristine beaches

Enjoy romantic walks and adventure sports on the pristine beaches of Kenya's coast. Enjoy romantic walks and adventure sports on the pristine beaches of Kenya's coast.

Diani voted the best beach in Mombasa and Africa by the World Travel Awards, is perfect for romantic walks and adventure sports like deep-sea fishing and snorkeling.

For Camel rides and Scuba diving find them at Nyali, Shelly, and Bamburi beaches that provide alternatives if you prefer.

If you want privacy, Tiwi Beach is perfect for you.

For marine life experience, Shanzu Beach is a place where you can snorkel and dive.

Pirates Beach is good for families and groups, with a lively atmosphere, food stalls and entertainment.

4. Visit the nature parks

Haller Park, Mombasa Marine National Park and Mamba Village are among the top tourist attractions in Mombasa. Haller Park was once a limestone quarry that developers transformed into a park with giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.

Mombasa Marine National Park offers many fun activities while Nguuni Nature Sanctuary provides close encounters with giraffes.

Visit the Mamba Village Centre to see a variety of reptiles and even hold a crocodile or snake for a photo. For hikers, Bamburi Nature Trail offers trails with scenery and animals.

5. Take photos at iconic landmarks - Island

Taking photos of Mombasa's landmarks is an activity to partake in. Start at Fort Jesus, capturing its views of the Indian Ocean. Capture the fort from different angles, especially from the cliff.

The Old Town offers photo opportunities with Swahili, Arabic, and European architecture. Capture the beautifully carved doors and balconies in the evening.

You can take pictures at Mama Ngina Waterfront or wildlife photography at Haller Park and Mamba Village Centre.

The Mombasa Tusks or Pembe za Ndovu is also a great view point for taking photos of Mombasa city, a form of a monument over Moi Avenue, Mombasa, perfect for taking pictures.

The Mombasa Tusks on Moi Avenue are another must-see. For the best shots, stand at the centre of the road (safely) to frame the tusks. Early morning or late afternoon light works best.

6. Visit historical caves

Jumba la Mtwana is the site of historical structures and archaeological relics on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya.

Jumba la Mtwana is the site of historical structures and archaeological relics on the Indian Ocean coast of Kenya at the Mtwapa Creek

Visit historical caves like Jumba la Mtwana, located along the Mombasa - Malindi road.

This ancient Swahili settlement with 14th-century ruins and caves is used for storage and shelter. Surrounded by coastal forest, it's a serene spot for exploration and cool photography.

Shimoni Caves (in the village of Shimoni) have a dark history as they were used to hold slaves before being shipped to the Middle East. Today, you can get guided tours.

Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features small caves and grottos used by the Digo community for spiritual rituals.

7. Go-karting

Mombasa Go-Kart provides an alluring experience for beginners and seasoned drivers with its 500-meter-long and 5-meter-wide track.

Mombasa Go-Kart provides an alluring experience for beginners and seasoned drivers with its 500-meter-long and 5-meter-wide track.

Mombasa Go-Kart offers an exciting experience for beginners and seasoned drivers. The facility features a 500-meter-long and 5-meter-wide track. In addition to go-karting, this venue offers other activities like paintball, archery, zip-lining, and a mechanical bull ride. There is also an on-site restaurant and a children's playground.

8. City Mall Nyali

Nakumatt Nyali/City Mall-Nyali, is Mombasa's first premier shopping mall, just 3 kilometers from the city Centre. Renowned for its wide range of local and international brands, the mall houses over 96 stores across 3 floors.

Additionally, the complex features the Masai Market, which offers authentic African items.

The Nyali Mall is also famous for its entertainment options, including a thrilling 9D Cinema.

9. Swim at Wild Waters

Located 4 kilometers from the city Centre, Wild Waters is the biggest water park in Kenya and a top destination in Mombasa.

This amusement and theme park offers fun for the whole family with 15 exciting waterslides, a Rain dance Disco Arena, video games, bumper cars, and various theme rides.

Lifeguards are always on duty to ensure everyone's safety, making it an enjoyable and secure destination for visitors of all ages.

10. Visit Nyali Cinemax

Located on Main Nyali Road in Mombasa, just 3 kilometers from the city Centre.

Nyali Theatre, also known as Nyali Cinemax, is the country’s first Barco digital cinema hall and the only one in the city. It features two movie halls with comfortable and spacious seating, incredible sound systems, and big screens.

Nyali Theatre/Nyali Cinemax features two movie halls with comfortable and spacious seating, incredible sound systems, and big screens.

Renowned for screening Bollywood and Hollywood movies, Nyali Theatre offers a top-notch cinematic experience for movie enthusiasts.

How to spend 3 days in Mombasa

Spend the first day visiting Fort Jesus, relaxing on Nyali Beach, and experiencing the culture of Old Town. On the second day, visit Haller Park for wildlife, explore Mombasa Marine National Park, and take a boat to Shimoni Caves.

On the final day visit Mombasa Tusks, explore Bombolulu Workshop, and end with a water safari at Wild Waters Kenya.

Wrapping up

Things to do in Mombasa include exploring Fort Jesus or strolling through the streets of Old Town. Go for nature at Haller Park and the Mombasa Marine National Park.

Take photos at the iconic Mombasa Tusks or enjoy cultural performances at the Bombolulu workshop and Cultural Centre.