Things to Do in Mombasa, Kenya

Mombasa, Kenya's coastal gem and second-largest city, seamlessly blends centuries of Swahili culture with modern beach resort luxury. This historic port city on the Indian Ocean has been a trading hub for over 1,000 years, where Arab, Portuguese, British, and African influences have created a unique cultural tapestry. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town showcases narrow streets lined with ancient coral stone buildings, ornate balconies, and bustling markets, while Fort Jesus stands as a testament to the city's colonial past. Beyond its rich history, Mombasa serves as the gateway to some of East Africa's most pristine beaches, including Diani Beach to the south and Watamu to the north. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean offer world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities along vibrant coral reefs, while nearby Tsavo National Parks provide easy access to Kenya's incredible wildlife. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, beach relaxation, or adventure activities, Mombasa offers an authentic taste of coastal Kenya that captivates visitors with its laid-back atmosphere and warm hospitality.

Top Things to Do in Mombasa

Old Town Walking Tour

Explore the narrow streets of Mombasa's historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring centuries-old Swahili architecture, bustling spice markets, and traditional craft shops. The area showcases beautiful coral stone buildings with intricately carved wooden balconies and doors that reflect the city's rich Arab, Portuguese, and African heritage. Visit local artisans, sample traditional snacks, and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient trading port.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours for $15-25 per person through local operators or hotels. Early morning tours (8-10 AM) offer cooler temperatures and better light for photography. Choose operators that include Fort Jesus entrance and provide cultural context rather than just sightseeing.

Diani Beach Day Trip

Spend a day at Diani Beach, consistently ranked among Africa's best beaches, featuring pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters backed by swaying palm trees. The beach offers excellent swimming conditions, water sports like kitesurfing and jet skiing, and beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. The coral reef just offshore provides opportunities for snorkeling and diving, while beach bars offer the perfect spot to watch spectacular Indian Ocean sunsets.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $40-60 including transport from Mombasa hotels. Book packages that include lunch and water sports equipment. Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds, and choose operators that provide snorkeling gear and beach chairs for better value.

Tsavo East Safari

Embark on a wildlife safari to Tsavo East National Park, famous for its red elephants, diverse wildlife, and dramatic landscapes including the Galana River and Lugard Falls. The park offers excellent game viewing opportunities with lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, and over 500 bird species across vast savannah plains. The relatively close proximity to Mombasa makes it perfect for day trips or overnight safari experiences.

Booking Tip: Day safaris range from $120-180 per person including park fees, lunch, and transport. Choose operators with experienced guides and well-maintained 4WD vehicles. Two-day safaris offer better wildlife viewing chances, especially during dry season (June-October and January-March).

Snorkeling and Diving Excursions

Discover the vibrant underwater world of the Indian Ocean with snorkeling or diving trips to pristine coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and marine life. Popular sites include Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park and the coral gardens near Wasini Island, where crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility year-round. Both beginners and experienced divers can enjoy these protected marine environments with professional guides ensuring safe and memorable experiences.

Booking Tip: Half-day snorkeling trips cost $45-65 including equipment and boat transport. PADI diving excursions range from $80-120 for certified divers. Book with PADI-certified operators, check equipment quality, and confirm group sizes (smaller groups offer better experiences).

Haller Park Nature Walk

Visit Haller Park, a remarkable nature sanctuary created from a former limestone quarry, now home to hippos, giraffes, crocodiles, and various antelope species in a lush tropical setting. This unique conservation success story offers walking trails through different ecosystems, feeding sessions with giraffes and hippos, and educational programs about wildlife rehabilitation. The park provides an excellent opportunity to see African wildlife up close in a more intimate setting than traditional game parks.

Booking Tip: Entrance fees are $15 for adults, $8 for children. Visit during feeding times (3 PM for hippos, 4 PM for giraffes) for the best experience. Combine with nearby attractions like the Bamburi Beach for a full day. No advance booking required, but arrive early during peak season.

Getting There

Moi International Airport (MBA) is located about 10 kilometers from Mombasa city center and receives both domestic flights from Nairobi (1.5-hour flight, $100-200) and international flights from major African and Middle Eastern cities. The scenic train journey from Nairobi on the Standard Gauge Railway takes approximately 5 hours and costs $25-50 depending on class, offering beautiful views of Kenya's countryside. By road, the drive from Nairobi takes 5-6 hours via the A109 highway, with regular bus services available for $15-25, though flying or taking the train is generally more comfortable and reliable.

Getting Around

Tuk-tuks (three-wheelers) are the most popular and convenient way to navigate Mombasa's city center, costing $2-5 for short trips, though always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Matatus (shared minibuses) provide affordable transport to beaches and surrounding areas for under $2, while private taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber offer more comfortable options for $5-15 depending on distance. For exploring Old Town, walking is often the best option due to narrow streets, while renting a car ($40-60 per day) gives you flexibility to visit beaches and attractions at your own pace, though traffic can be congested during peak hours.

Where to Stay

Nyali Beach

Bamburi Beach

Mombasa Old Town

Diani Beach

Shanzu Beach

Mombasa City Center

Food & Dining

Mombasa's culinary scene reflects its multicultural heritage, with excellent Swahili cuisine featuring coconut-based curries, fresh seafood, and aromatic spices available at local restaurants like Tamarind and Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant. Street food is exceptional and safe when chosen wisely – try bhajias, samosas, and mishkaki (grilled meat skewers) from busy stalls in Old Town, or visit the famous Forodhani Gardens for evening food markets. Indian cuisine is particularly strong due to the large Indian community, while beachfront restaurants serve excellent fresh fish, lobster, and crab, often grilled over coconut husks for authentic flavor, with meals ranging from $5-30 depending on the venue.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Mombasa is during the dry seasons from December to March and July to October, when temperatures are more comfortable (24-30°C), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for beach activities and wildlife safaris. The long rains from April to June can be heavy and may disrupt outdoor activities, while the short rains in November are usually brief afternoon showers that don't significantly impact travel plans. The coastal location means temperatures remain fairly consistent year-round, but the dry seasons offer better conditions for diving and snorkeling with clearer waters and calmer seas, plus this timing coincides with peak wildlife viewing in nearby national parks.

Insider Tips

Negotiate prices for tuk-tuks and souvenirs in Old Town, but be respectful – starting at 50% of the quoted price is usually acceptable

Carry small denominations of Kenyan shillings for street food and local transport, as vendors often don't have change for large bills

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting mosques or walking through residential areas of Old Town, especially during prayer times

Things to Do in Mombasa