Things To Do In Mombasa

Looking for the best things to do in Mombasa? From the historic streets of Old Town and the iconic Fort Jesus to white-sand beaches, marine parks, dhow cruises and coastal adventures, Mombasa offers an incredible mix of history, culture, relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer Kenyan coast holiday, there are plenty of Mombasa activities and places to visit to add to your itinerary.

Here are some of the best things to do in Mombasa.

1. Explore Mombasa Old Town

Exploring Mombasa Old Town is one of the best things to do in Mombasa. The historic neighbourhood is known for its narrow streets, Swahili architecture, colourful buildings, carved wooden doors and rich cultural heritage.

Take a walking tour through the old streets, browse local shops and markets, admire the historic architecture and discover the many cultural influences that have shaped the city.

Don’t miss the waterfront and the traditional atmosphere of this historic part of Mombasa.

2.Visit Fort Jesus

Visit Fort Jesus, one of Mombasa’s most famous landmarks and an important historical site on the Kenyan coast.

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the fort overlooks the Indian Ocean and has played an important role in the history of Mombasa.

Explore the old fortifications, courtyards and museum while learning about the different cultures and powers that influenced the region.

Fort Jesus is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of Mombasa

3. Relax on Mombasa’s Beaches

Mombasa is famous for its beautiful Indian Ocean beaches, making it an excellent destination for a relaxing beach holiday.

Visit Nyali Beach, Bamburi Beach or Shanzu Beach for white sand, warm water and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.

For a quieter experience, explore some of the less-developed beaches along the Kenyan coast.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beach day or water activities, Mombasa’s coastline has something for everyone.

4. Visit Haller Park

Spend time in nature at Haller Park, a former limestone quarry that has been transformed into a thriving wildlife and conservation area.

The park is home to giraffes, hippos, buffaloes, antelopes, crocodiles and a variety of bird species.

Take a guided walk through the park, visit the animal areas and learn about the conservation work taking place there.

Haller Park is one of the best places to visit in Mombasa for families and wildlife lovers.

5. Explore Mombasa Marine National Park

Discover the underwater world of the Kenyan coast at Mombasa Marine National Park.

The protected marine area is home to coral reefs, colourful tropical fish, sea turtles and other marine life.

Go snorkelling or diving to explore the reefs, or take a glass-bottom boat trip for a more relaxed way to see the underwater environment.

6. Go Snorkelling and Scuba Diving

The warm waters around Mombasa provide excellent opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Explore coral gardens, swim among tropical fish and look out for turtles and other marine life.

Several dive sites along the coast cater to both beginners and experienced divers, making Mombasa a great destination for underwater adventures.

7. Visit Mamba Village Centre

Discover crocodiles and other wildlife at Mamba Village Centre, one of Mombasa’s unusual attractions.

The centre is known for its large crocodile enclosure and provides visitors with an opportunity to learn more about these fascinating reptiles.

It can be a fun stop for families and wildlife enthusiasts looking for something different from the city’s beaches and historical attractions.

 

8. Take a Traditional Dhow Cruise

Experience the Kenyan coast from the water aboard a traditional dhow.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Indian Ocean, watch the coastline from the sea and take in the beautiful scenery.

Depending on the excursion, dhow trips can include meals, snorkelling, swimming, fishing or sunset experiences.

A dhow cruise is a great way to experience the coastal culture and beauty of Mombasa.

9. Try Mombasa’s Local Food

Food is an important part of experiencing Mombasa’s culture.

The city’s cuisine reflects its Swahili, African, Arab and Indian influences. Try local favourites such as biriyani, pilau, samosas, viazi karai, mahamri, grilled seafood and coconut-based dishes.

Explore local restaurants and food markets to experience the flavours of the Kenyan coast.

For food lovers, trying authentic Swahili cuisine is one of the best things to do in Mombasa.

10. Visit Nyali

Spend a day exploring Nyali, one of Mombasa’s most popular coastal areas.

Enjoy the beach, visit local restaurants, explore shopping centres or simply relax beside the Indian Ocean.

Nyali is also conveniently located close to attractions such as Haller Park and Mombasa Marine National Park.

11. Explore Bamburi Beach

Head north of Mombasa to Bamburi Beach, a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing and water activities.

The beach offers a lively coastal atmosphere with hotels, restaurants and activities nearby.

You can spend the day relaxing on the sand, enjoying water sports or watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

12. Visit the Mombasa Tusks

Stop to see the famous Mombasa Tusks, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

The giant aluminium tusks stand over Moi Avenue and were originally erected to commemorate a royal visit.

Today, they are an iconic symbol of Mombasa and a popular photo stop when exploring the city.

13. Discover Mombasa’s History and Culture

Mombasa has a long history shaped by African, Arab, Persian, Portuguese, Indian and British influences.

Explore Old Town, visit Fort Jesus, discover historic mosques and buildings, and learn about the city’s role as an important trading port along the Indian Ocean.

A guided cultural or walking tour is a great way to discover the stories behind Mombasa’s streets and landmarks.

14.Visit the Gede Ruins

Take a day trip from Mombasa to the Gede Ruins, the remains of a historic Swahili settlement near Watamu.

Explore the ancient stone buildings, mosques, palace ruins and surrounding forest while learning about the Swahili civilisation that once flourished along the Kenyan coast.

The Gede Ruins are an excellent choice for history lovers looking to explore beyond Mombasa.

15. Experience a Safari from Mombasa

Mombasa can also be used as a base for a Kenyan safari adventure.

Take a trip inland to destinations such as Tsavo East National Park or Tsavo West National Park to experience Kenya’s famous wildlife.

Depending on your itinerary, you may encounter elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras and many other species.

Combining a Mombasa beach holiday with a safari is one of the best ways to experience both the Kenyan coast and Kenya’s wildlife.

16. Explore Wasini Island

Take a boat trip to Wasini Island and discover one of the most beautiful marine destinations near the Kenyan coast.

Enjoy snorkelling, explore the surrounding waters and experience the relaxed island atmosphere.

Wasini Island excursions are often combined with visits to the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti marine area, where visitors can explore coral reefs and look for dolphins.

17. Visit Mombasa Go-Kart

For an activity away from the beach, head to a go-karting track and enjoy some fast-paced fun.

Go-karting can be a great option for families, groups of friends and travellers looking for an adventurous activity between sightseeing and beach days.

18.Explore Local Markets and Shops

Discover Mombasa’s local markets and shops for a taste of everyday coastal life.

Browse colourful fabrics, handmade crafts, jewellery, spices, artwork and souvenirs.

Exploring the markets is also a great opportunity to interact with local traders and discover unique gifts to take home.

19. Watch the Sunset

Mombasa’s Indian Ocean coastline provides beautiful sunset views.

Head to the beach in the late afternoon, take a dhow cruise or find a waterfront restaurant where you can watch the sky change colour over the ocean.

Sunset is a perfect time to slow down and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Kenyan coast.

20. Enjoy a Romantic Mombasa Experience

Mombasa is an excellent destination for couples looking for a tropical coastal escape.

Enjoy a romantic beach dinner, take a sunset dhow cruise, relax at a beachfront resort, explore Old Town together or spend the day swimming and relaxing by the Indian Ocean.

For a memorable romantic holiday, combine a few nights exploring Mombasa’s history and culture with time relaxing on the beach.

Best Things to Do in Mombasa for Different Travellers

For adventure lovers
  • Scuba diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Dhow cruises
  • Deep-sea fishing
  • Water sports
  • Go-karting
  • Safari trips
  • Island excursions

 

For couples
  • Sunset dhow cruise
  • Beach dinners
  • Private beach days
  • Snorkelling trips
  • Spa experiences
  • Sunset walks
  • Romantic beachfront stays
For families
  • Haller Park
  • Mamba Village
  • Beach days
  • Mombasa Marine National Park
  • Snorkelling
  • Go-karting
  • Fort Jesus
  • Old Town sightseeing
For culture lovers
  • Mombasa Old Town
  • Fort Jesus
  • Local markets
  • Swahili food tours
  • Historic mosques and buildings
  • Mombasa Tusks
  • Gede Ruins
  • Cultural walking tours

Start your Mombasa adventure with us

Tell us where you want to go and when, and we will plan the rest.