Mombasa – Travel Guide 2023

Located on Kenya’s coast, Mombasa is a stunning tourist location. This coastal city has a rich history and diverse culture and offers visitors the amazing chance to enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions. Here is a travel guide for travel lovers who wish to visit Mombasa!

1. When to visit?

Mombasa has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round, and the city receives the most rain from March to May and October to December. If you're planning a visit to Mombasa, the best time would be from June to September. This is the dry season so the weather is  sunny and pleasant. The wet season, on the other hand, is a good time to visit as the vegetation is green and lush, there are less crowds, and bird watching is excellent.

1. Where to go?

Here are some top locations that every travel lover must see during a trip to Mombasa!

• Jumba la Mtwana Ruins are the remains of the small Swahili town that was deserted around 500 years ago. The ruined village dates back to the fourteenth century, and is home to ancient structures, a mosque, and interesting archeological relics. Tourists can learn about the region’s rich history. 
• Shimba hills is one of the largest coastal forests in East Africa, and is one of the most mind-blowing locations tourists can visit in Mombasa. Rich in flora and fauna, it is home to animals such as the African elephant, Sable antelope, elephant shrew, bushy tailed mongoose and fruit bats. It is also excellent for bird watching as tourists can spot Spurfowl, Croaking Cisticola and Zanzibar Red Bishop. 
• Mamba Village center is the largest crocodile farm in Africa, as it is home to around 1000 crocodiles. Here, one can see Big Daddy, the largest Crocodile in Mamba Village, that is over 100 years old and weighs around 800kgs! Tourists can also enjoy horse riding, or a tour of a botanical garden or a great aquarium.
• The ruins of Gede include ancient mosques, houses, and a palace, all made from stone with stone pillars. Tourists can also find earth and thatch houses. The site offers an amazing insight into the archeological history of the region, and has been recognized as a Historical Monument since 1927.

1. What to do?

Mombasa offers amazing tourist locations visitors must visit to enjoy their trip to its fullest. Tourist activities in Mombasa can range from taking a stroll in the old town or snorkeling amongst the coral reef in the Indian ocean.  Tourists can learn about history and heritage during a trip to Old town and Fort Jesus: The old town of Mombasa is a historic district with narrow streets, colorful houses, and vibrant markets. Fort Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction in Mombasa. 

They can also explore rich marketplaces such as Kibokoni Market and the Makupa Causeway Market, where visitors can find everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce and spices. 

Mombasa has beautiful sandy beaches and is an excellent destination for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, boating, jet skiing, camel rides, diving and other beach activities such as picnics. Some famous beaches in Mombasa include Nyali Beach, Bamburi beach and Diani Beach. Visitors can explore the vibrant coral reefs and see a wide range of marine life. 

1. What to eat?

Mombasa has a wide range of delicious local cuisine, and trying local food is a great way to get a taste of the city's culture. Tourists can enjoy Swahili dishes which offer a blend of African, Arab, and Indian flavors, as well as Indian food, Chinese food, and delicious fresh seafood.

1. Important health and safety tips

Tourists should stay safe from mosquitoes by carrying insect repellant and wearing full sleeved clothes. They should wear sunscreen and carry sunglasses and hats to protect from the sun. As tap water is not always suitable for drinking, they must drink bottled water. Staying healthy and safe during the trip is essential in enjoying a memorable and amazing holiday!