Mombasa

Jun 13, 2025 African Safari Kenya No Comments 3 Views

Welcome to Mombasa

Mombasa is the second largest city in Kenya and the capital of the Kenya Coast. Mombasa lies on the shores of the Indian Ocean. It boasts a chief port and an international airport.

Mombasa is one of Africa’s leading tourist destinations, with world-class beaches to the north and south.

History

Mombasa’s history dates back to the 16th century. It has been ruled by the Arabs, Portuguese, and British—each leaving cultural influences seen in attractions like Fort Jesus and the Old Town.

Geography

Located on Kenya’s eastern coastline, Mombasa has grown into a top destination for its exotic beaches, marine life, luxury hotels, and friendly people. Families can enjoy activities such as deep-sea fishing, sunbathing, and water sports. Many hotels incorporate these into their entertainment offerings, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.

Attractions in and around Mombasa

Haller Park (Formerly Bamburi Nature Trail)

This is the largest animal sanctuary on the Kenya Coast, located next to the Bamburi Cement Factory. The park features animals, reptiles, insects, and botanical gardens. Guided walks allow visitors to feed or hold reptiles under supervision. It was transformed from a barren mined land into a flourishing ecosystem.

Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus, located near Old Town, is Mombasa’s most iconic site. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it houses a museum displaying relics from Mombasa’s history as a trade and slave port. The interior features prison cells and torture rooms. Visitors can view canons and other historical weaponry. The fort is open daily from morning to dusk.

Old Town

This area showcases the heavy Arab influence on Mombasa through its buildings, culture, and language. Explore narrow streets filled with ancient architecture and curio shops. It’s best explored on foot with a guide. Fort Jesus is nearby, allowing for a combined tour.

Mamba Village (Crocodile Farm)

Located in Nyali, this is East Africa’s largest crocodile farm. Visitors watch a documentary on crocodile life, take a farm tour, and witness a dramatic feeding session. The on-site restaurant offers delicious grilled crocodile meat. Souvenirs are available at the village shop.

Bombolulu Workshops

Situated on Mombasa’s north coast, Bombolulu Workshops were founded in 1969 by the Association for the Physically Disabled in Kenya (APDK). The center features eight traditional homesteads, a cultural restaurant, and daily performances of traditional dances. Over 150 disabled artisans craft jewelry, textiles, wood carvings, and leather goods, which are sold locally and exported internationally.

The Elephant Tusks

The symbolic tusks mark the entrance to central Mombasa and were erected to honor Queen Elizabeth’s 1952 visit. Positioned along her route from the port, the tusks represent a grand welcome into the city.

Mombasa Hindu Temple

Located on Haile Selassie Avenue near the railway station, this temple is a symbol of the city’s cultural diversity. Visitors are welcome to tour the temple and learn about its history from temple gurus. The site features stone carvings and religious idols and is part of Mombasa’s city tour program.

Gedi Ruins

North of Mombasa near Malindi lie the ancient Gedi Ruins, remnants of a Swahili town from the 15th century. Guided tours explain the site’s significance, and its preservation as a National Museum underscores Kenya’s commitment to cultural heritage. This visit is included in the Malindi day tour.