Things to do in Mombasa, Kenya

Mombasa, Kenya’s second largest city, is a beautiful coastal city with sun soaked white sand beaches, warm azure waters, fringed with colourful coral reef and shaded with the emerald green of the coconut trees. It is seeped in Swahili history and there is just so much to see and do on this sun basked island.

Our top picks of things to do are as follows:

Visit Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus in Mombasa is a gorgeous fortress built between 1593 and 1596 by the Portuguese, now classed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the perfect spot for history enthusiasts, with so many artefacts and remains to see, such as cannons and a skeleton, plus it has the most amazing views of Mombasa.

It was built to mirror a person lying on their back and has Portuguese, Arabic and British influences, each from different times of rule during the different eras.

It is definitely worth a visit to see the magnificent architecture and to see some of the fascinating artefacts which have been preserved.

While in the area explore the old town with its narrow streets, old buildings, gorgeous doors and antique shops. The old town is a wonderful place to explore to see the influences of the various residents, such as Asians, Arabs and Europeans. There are some great cafes and coffee shops where you can take a break too.

Relax on the beach

Mombasa has some lovely beaches on which to spend some time unwinding and relaxing in the sunshine. As Kenya is close to the equator, it is blessed with warm weather all year round.

It is great for water sports too if you fancy jet skiing or any other activities.

Visit Jumba Ruins and have lunch at Monsoons restaurant

Jumba la Mtwana, or Jumba Ruins as it is more popularly known, is a hidden historical site found in the buzzing town of Mtwapa, popularly known for its Creekside restaurants and beautiful sea views. It is well worth a visit and has a gorgeous restaurant on site  called Monsoon, which is an absolute must if you love seafood.

Have a drink with a view at Tamarind Mombasa

Tamarind Mombasa is a great place to unwind and enjoy a drink or two. With its enviable location, it is definitely a great venue to soak up some rays as well as escape from the hustle and bustle of the traffic on Nyali Bridge.

Try a Tusker Beer with a sea view

Trying the local beer, preferably with a view of the sea is a must! Best served chilled and definitely very popular with anyone who visits Kenya.

Have lunch on Kenya’s only floating restaurant – Moorings

Yes a floating restaurant which is just stunning and a great place to spend a lazy afternoon.

You can even take a dhow from here if you fancy something special. They make incredible dawas, which is a must try local Kenyan cocktail.

Have street food at Lighthouse

You cannot visit Mombasa and not try the famous fried or grilled cassava or grilled corn on the cob on Mama Ngina Drive, in an area popularly known as “Lighthouse”.

Drive through the famous Mombasa Tusks

These iconic tusks were commissioned in commemoration of a visit to Mombasa by Princess Margaret in 1956 and have stood proudly on Moi Avenue ever since.

Spend some time with some fiesty crocs at Haller Park

Haller Park is a success story whereby a quarry was turned into an ecological paradise. It is worth visiting and you will get to see reptiles, as well as giraffes, hippos, zebras and so much more.

Beachside dining at Yuls

Yuls, which is also known as Aquadrom purely out of nostalgia, is a fabulous beach front restaurant where you can have pizzas, pastas, burgers and sea food and amazing ice cream. It is a great place to spend the afternoon and if you are into water sports, you can hire jet skis amongst other things from here.

Buy a Kanga

A Kanga, which is a colourful cloth that can be worn as a skirt or sarong, is perfect for the beach and you will be spoilt for choice with the array of colours and designs that are available. Usually found sold on the beach they are a great accessory to have and inexpensive too.

To find out more about Mombasa and to see the hotels you can book, visit our website or call us on  020 8423 3000.

https://www.somak.com/kenya/mombasa