Mombasa, Kenya’s second-largest city, is a coastal gem renowned for its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultural diversity. Located along the Indian Ocean, Mombasa offers a mix of historical sites, natural attractions, and modern leisure facilities. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, this coastal city has something for everyone. Below is a list of places to visit in Mombasa.
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Fort Jesus
- Location: Mombasa Old Town
- Highlights: Architecture, historical exhibitions, sea views
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fort Jesus is one of the most iconic landmarks in Mombasa. Built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century to protect their trade route to India, this massive fort is steeped in history. Visitors can explore its ancient walls, dungeons, and museum, which showcases artifacts from various periods of Mombasa’s history.
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Old Town
- Location: Central Mombasa
- Highlights: Heritage architecture, street markets, Swahili culture
Old Town is a culturally rich neighborhood that reflects Mombasa’s Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese influences. The narrow streets are lined with beautifully carved wooden doors, antique shops, and charming old houses. Visitors can stroll through the alleys to explore the local culture, taste Swahili cuisine, and purchase handmade crafts.
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Haller Park
- Location: Bamburi
- Highlights: Animal feeding sessions, nature walks, bird watching
Haller Park is a nature park that was transformed from a barren limestone quarry into a lush green space teeming with wildlife. It is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and tortoises. The park is perfect for families and nature lovers who can enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by greenery.
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Nyali Beach
- Location: Nyali
- Highlights: Beach activities, water sports, seaside dining
Nyali Beach is one of Mombasa’s most popular beaches, known for its long stretch of white sand and calm turquoise waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or engaging in water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Nyali Beach is also lined with resorts and restaurants, offering a great place to relax and enjoy the coastal ambiance.
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Mombasa Marine National Park
- Location: Off the coast of Mombasa
- Highlights: Snorkeling, scuba diving, boat tours
Mombasa Marine National Park offers an underwater paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The park is home to vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. Glass-bottom boat tours are available for visitors who prefer to enjoy the marine life without diving.
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Mamba Village Centre
- Location: Nyali
- Highlights: Crocodile feeding, guided tours, botanical gardens
- Overview: Mamba Village is East Africa’s largest crocodile farm, offering visitors an up-close encounter with these fascinating reptiles. The center features a guided tour where visitors can learn about crocodile behavior, breeding, and habitat. The farm also has a botanical garden with a variety of plants, including orchids and palms.
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Shimba Hills National Reserve
- Location: 33 kilometers from Mombasa
- Highlights: Wildlife viewing, nature walks, scenic waterfalls
Located a short drive from Mombasa, Shimba Hills National Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary known for its scenic landscapes and rich biodiversity. It is one of the few places in Kenya where you can see the rare sable antelope. The reserve also has elephants, giraffes, leopards, and various bird species, making it a great destination for a safari.
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Gedi Ruins
- Location: 65 kilometers north of Mombasa, near Malindi
- Highlights: Archaeological sites, historical architecture, guided tours
The Gedi Ruins are the remnants of an ancient Swahili town that dates back to the 13th century. Hidden in a lush forest, these ruins include a palace, mosques, tombs, and houses made from coral stone. It is a historical treasure that offers a glimpse into the life of a once-thriving Swahili settlement.
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Bamburi Beach
- Location: Bamburi
- Highlights: Camel rides, beach sports, family-friendly atmosphere
Bamburi Beach is another popular beach destination in Mombasa, known for its soft white sand and shallow, clear waters. It’s ideal for families, as it offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, beach volleyball, and camel rides. The beach is surrounded by resorts, restaurants, and beach bars, making it a perfect place to unwind.
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Jumba la Mtwana
- Location: Kilifi County, north of Mombasa
- Highlights: Historical ruins, ocean views, tranquil setting
Jumba la Mtwana is an ancient coastal settlement that dates back to the 14th century. The ruins consist of mosques, houses, and tombs, all built with coral stone. The site offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, with stunning views of the ocean. It is a great spot for history lovers and those interested in ancient Swahili culture.
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Mombasa Tusks (Pembe Za Ndovu)
- Location: Moi Avenue
- Highlights: Photo opportunity, historical monument, central location
The Mombasa Tusks are one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Constructed in 1952 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth’s visit to the city, these giant aluminum tusks form an arch over Moi Avenue, symbolizing the city’s historical connection to the ivory trade. It’s a great spot for a quick photo and a stroll along the bustling streets of Mombasa.
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Diani Beach
- Location: 30 kilometers south of Mombasa
- Highlights: Kitesurfing, snorkeling, beach resorts
Diani Beach is a breathtaking stretch of white sandy beach located south of Mombasa. It’s one of Kenya’s most famous beaches, known for its pristine waters, coral reefs, and palm-fringed shoreline. Diani offers various activities such as kitesurfing, snorkeling, and boat trips, making it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.
