Mombasa travel guide

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Mombasa is the second largest town in Kenya, built on an Island composed of solid coral reef. It was once referred to as the gateway to the black continent (Africa) by slave traders and European missionaries. It is a major port and is the centre of the coastal tourism industry. The awe-inspiring landscapes, numerous attractions and pleasant weather have given a boost to the flow of the tourists here.

The Arabic influence can be very much felt all around inside the city. The dress, the architecture and the food of Mombasa all have Arabic touch. Mombasa is an excellent place if you are planning a holiday for a break from your monotonous life.

Fast Facts

Mombasa has various attractions which is a major reason that thousands of people visit this city every year. In addition to being a haven for water sports and fishing enthusiasts, Mombasa is even a perfect place for those who want to tranquilize your sense to the hilt. Some of the major attractions are : -

→ Fort Jesus is Mombasa's most popular tourist attraction and is located along the coastline. It is a fine example of Portuguese architecture.

→ Gedi Ruins is located on the North coast of Mombasa. It is the most historic ruins found in the city and is entirely built from rocks.

→ The Mombasa "Tusks" are symbolic representations of the entrance of the visitors into the heart of the town. It depicts the friendly and warm behaviour of the people living in Mombasa.

→ Haller Park is the largest animal sanctuary in Mombasa. Located next to the Bamburi Cement Factory, it boasts of an enormous variety of animals, reptiles, insects and botanical gardens.



Things To Do

Below is the list of "must to do" things while you are on vacations to Mombasa.


√ Visit Bomobolulu Crafts Centre
It is an agricultural project for the physically disabled started in 1969; this project has now expanded and there are several handicapped employees working over here. The whole project is backed up by Kenyan, European, and Indian governments.

√ East African safari
Enjoy the real excitement and wilderness by opting to go for world famous African safari in Mombasa. You can also pay a visit to the continent's largest crocodile farm.

√ Fort Jesus museum
If you want to enhance your knowledge of history then visit this beautiful museum which is a fine example of Portuguese architecture.



Entertainment

There are many excellent beach activities for individuals, couples and families that will keep you occupied throughout your stay. The safe and guided boat tours will take you out to the reef where you can watch the sharks swim at the lower depths. There are countless things offered by Mombasa to invigorate your sense to the core. . But if still your energy reserves are not completely exhausted then there are several clubs for you to have a rocking time for example the New Florida Casino and the Nightclub and many more.



Food

The city of Mombasa offers some of the excellent restaurants where you can definitely have a good time. Since there is diversity in the culture, Mombasa offers you a wide variety of options to choose from Swahili, Indian, Chinese, Korean, Italian cuisines. The city is popular for its freshly caught and prepared seafood like including lobster, crabs etc. The traditional cuisines served in the city are infused with a spicy touch and saucy flavour.



Shopping

Mombasa is also home to many unique boutique shops selling modern art objects, paintings, clothing and jewelry. It is an ideal place to shop for well priced coastal handicrafts. The shopping in Mombasa is heavily dependent on African art and culture. Here you will find that the tourists are keen on buying the local handcrafted items, ornately carved furniture, souvenirs etc. You shouldn't miss visiting the Old Town where numerous markets and expensive boutiques are located. You can bargain a lot and buy the items at reasonable prices. Lastly the city offers you a comprehensive shopping experience.



Activities

Mombasa offers an endless list of thrill and adventure activities to the visitors. It is ideal holidays get away with the perfect weather, sports, attractions and something for everyone.

You can plan a Snorkeling trip to Malindi in Mombasa, with your family and relish the wonderful times.

You can also enjoy other water sports like Swimming, Surfing, and Skiing etc. Go for Fishing with your loved ones to rejuvenate in the afternoon.

If you want to try on more excitement and fun then going on the Jungle Safari is an excellent option. The journey is packed with the real fun and is quite difficult.



Local Transport

Mombasa has one of the most proficient public transport systems in Kenya. The city has an extensive and well developed local travel network with plenty of good options to suit any traveler's needs. Some of the means to travel around are :


√ By Bus :
Several buses run daily from morning till midnight, inside the city that travels to almost every corner of the city. They are the main means of transport for the locals as traveling by bus is cheap and comfortable.

√ By Taxi :
Mombasa is a place where you can find taxis easily. The taxis are widely available and the most convenient option for touring the city.

√ By Cycling :
Long distance cycling is very popular here as the roads are smooth and inexpensive mode of transport.

√ By Matatu :
The most popular form of public transport in Mombasa is the Matatu, which has now become a national icon and a large part of Kenyan modern culture.



Getting Around

Getting to Mombasa by air is the most convenient option. There are several flights a day between Mombasa and Nairobi and the prices are quite low. The city also has many domestic flights, linking the city to the other main cities of Africa.

Even buses and trains provide the means to reach Mombasa but they are very time consuming and most often crowded.