Holiday in Mombasa

About Mombasa

Mombasa is Kenya's second-largest city and the gateway to the paradise beaches of the Kenyan coast. The historic port city on a coral island in the Indian Ocean combines African, Arab, and Portuguese influences into a cultural mix that is unique in East Africa. The old town is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow alleys, carved Swahili wooden doors, and coral stone houses that reflect centuries of Arab and Portuguese trade. Fort Jesus, built by the Portuguese in 1593 and a UNESCO World Heritage site, overlooks the old harbor and tells the tumultuous history of the coast — from Portuguese conquerors to Omani sultans to British colonial rule. The beaches north and south of the city are among the most beautiful in East Africa. Diani Beach, 30 kilometers south, is a 17-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand with turquoise water and coral reefs for snorkeling. Bamburi and Nyali Beach in the north offer beachfront resorts with ocean views. The water temperature ranges between 25 and 29°C year-round. The Wasini Island day trip includes Dhow sailing on traditional boats, snorkeling with dolphins, and a Swahili seafood feast on the car-free island. Haller Park offers encounters with giant tortoises and the famous hippopotamus Owen, and the Mombasa Marine National Park protects coral reefs with impressive underwater life. Mombasa is also the endpoint of the legendary "Lunatic Express" — the railway line from Nairobi to the coast, which today operates as the modern Madaraka Express (SGR) and takes 4.5 hours through Tsavo National Park, where you might see elephants and giraffes from the window if you're lucky. The combination of safari vacation and beach days makes the Mombasa route the most popular travel itinerary in Kenya.