Things to do

Alright, so you've figured out how to get around but where exactly are you going? Mombasa is great for doing absolutely nothing but can also satisfy any appetite you might have for adventure and roaming. Here are a few ways to do both.

FORT JESUS

Fort Jesus exterior view
Fort Jesus detailed view

This historic fortress has been watching over Mombasa since the 1590s. The views from up there are incredible, and the history lessons come free with your entrance fee. There's an info board around the museum, but a guide is recommended.

Entrance Fees

Kenyan Citizens

  • Adults: KES 200
  • Children: KES 100
  • Under 10: Free

Non-Residents (East African Citizens)

  • Adults: KES 400
  • Children: KES 200
  • Under 10: Free

Non-Residents (Outside East Africa)

  • Adults: KES 1,200
  • Children: KES 600
  • Under 10: Free

For more information or any changes in fees, check out their website below: https://www.fortjesusmombasa.com

OLD TOWN

Old Town street view
Old Town architecture

This part of town is full of picturesque, winding streets steeped in preserved history and culture. You'll get lost in the narrow alleyways discovering Swahili architecture, from the intricately carved wooden doors that honestly belong in a museum, to the delicious and authentic food found lurking in every corner, this is unmissable. You must try coffee from Jahan and Khadija's viazis and kaimati. Not ready to venture out alone? Book a food tour.

Go-Kart

Feeling the need for speed? The go-kart track will scratch that itch. It's a great way to cool down from sightseeing and get your adrenaline pumping. Perfect for groups, couples looking for some friendly competition, or anyone who wants to feel like they're 12 years old again.

Go-kart track

Price Breakdown (Per Person)

  • Adults: KES 1,000
  • Children (Up to 12yrs): KES 400
  • 2nd Race: KES 700
  • 3rd Race: KES 500
  • Program: KES 2,000

Other activities such as paintball, rodeo bull, zip-line and mini golf are available at a fee. For more information, visit their website: https://www.mombasa-gokart.com

Beach

Resort beach with pool
Pristine beach

Obviously mandatory. White sand, turquoise water & palm trees - it's your Pinterest board come to life... literally. Whether you're looking to sprawl out with a book, take a dip in the Indian Ocean, or just soak up some serious vitamin D, Mombasa's coastline delivers.

Notable Beaches with Public Access

  • Nyali Beach
  • Bamburi Beach
  • Shanzu Beach
  • Vipingo Beach (Vipingo)
  • Diani Beach (KSH)
  • Beneri Beach
  • Kilifi/Watamu

You might also want to consider spending the day at a private hotel. Many offer day passes to allow you to enjoy beach access when you grab a drink or meal.

Dhow Rides

Best taken at sunset. These traditional boats have been sailing the Indian Ocean for centuries. Watching the sun melt into the ocean as you enjoy a sundowner? Indescribable!

Faraja Dhow

Faraja Dhow (15 people +)

Contact: +254795638150

Instagram: @farajadhow

Aloha dhow

Aloha dhow (up to 10-12 people)

Contact: +254750826719

Instagram: @alohadhow

Maasai Market

Yes, it's touristy but you absolutely cannot miss it for souvenirs and local crafts to remember your trip by. Fair warning: mzungu tax applies, come ready to negotiate! If you're on a budget, or bring a local friend who can work some magic on those prices. Either way, the vibrant colours, incredible craftsmanship, and pure energy of a Kenyan market make it totally worth the negotiation dance.

Maasai market jewelry
Maasai market stalls

Locations

  • Chandarana Supermarket (outside), Nyali Plaza (Opposite Nyali Cinemas)
  • City Mall, Nyali

Day Trips

Mombasa encompasses the central Mombasa county. It also includes a surrounding greater coastal region dotted with historic towns that are absolutely unmissable. Pack a day bag and venture out to any one of these charming towns!

Lamu

This is another destination worth the visit and better suited to a weekend or extended stay. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that still uses donkeys as its main mode of transport. It is a more considerable trek by car so consider booking a flight though. Lamu Jet if you want to avoid the long drive. https://lamujet.com/explore-our-destinations/flights-to-lamu/

Lamu island aerial view
Diani Beach

Diani

Pristine white sands and fabulous beach resorts

Kilifi/Watamu

Kilifi/Watamu

Marine park, coral gardens and authentic Italian ice cream

Malindi

Malindi

The perfect blend of Swahili culture and Italian influence

ChaQula Approved Lighthouse

A great spot for watching the sunset, sipping on madafu and eating freshly made Kachiri (cassava crisps) which are served best with chili and lemon.

ChaQula Approved Lighthouse

Each destination has its own personality and stories to tell and a deeper appreciation to offer of just how rich and diverse this stretch of Kenyan coast really is.