Mombasa

In this easy to reach coastal city our local partners will introduce you to the secrets of Kenyan cooking.

City tour | Street food tour | Cooking class | FAQ

Visit the port city and dive into its culture

Mombasa isn’t like other coastal towns. With Arabic, Persian, Portuguese and Indian influences it’s a real melting pot of cultures. This oldest and second largest city in Kenya sits right on the Indian Ocean. You can spend your morning wandering through the historic Old Town and end your day relaxing at Nyali or Bamburi Beach. But beyond the charm, it’s also a lively trading hub. As Kenya’s main port city it has been a center of commerce for centuries. Mombasa is raw, vibrant and endlessly fascinating.

City tour Mombasa

You can’t really visit a city without joining a proper city tour. This one takes you on a journey through the African, Arabic, Indian and Portuguese influences that shaped Mombasa. You’ll visit the famous Fort Jesus built in 1593, explore colorful markets like the spice market and wander through Old Town. Your local guide will also take you to the city’s iconic tusk gate, built in 1952 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s visit, so you can snap that classic Mombasa photo too.

Street food tour Mombasa

Mombasa’s mix of cultures doesn’t just show in its history and religion but also in its food. Especially in Old Town you’ll find small cafés serving amazing coffee and unexpected local dishes bursting with flavor. This tour also passes by some of the city’s main highlights, so you’ll get a taste of both food and culture in one go.

Cooking class

If you’re a true foodie this one’s for you. The cooking class starts at the local market where, over a coffee, you’ll decide what to cook for the day. Together you’ll shop for ingredients before heading to the home of Khawaji, your local chef, who’ll show you exactly how to prepare traditional Swahili dishes. It might not be the pizza you expected on Kenya’s coast, but these local flavors will stick with you forever.

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All your burning questions about Mombasa answered

Visit Fort Jesus, the old Portuguese fort and UNESCO World Heritage site, stroll through Old Town with its Swahili architecture, explore the fish market and botanical gardens. Popular beaches include Nyali and Bamburi.

Mombasa is fairly safe, especially in tourist areas. Avoid walking alone at night in quiet neighborhoods and use reliable taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Nyali Beach, Bamburi Beach and Diani Beach just south of Mombasa are the most popular ones, all with white sand and good facilities.

You can fly, take the SGR train which takes about five to six hours or travel by bus. The SGR is comfortable, affordable and a favorite among travelers.

Try Swahili dishes like pilau, samosas, ugali with fish and coconut rice. Fresh seafood is a must too.

Yes, you can go on a dhow boat trip, visit local markets, snorkel in Mombasa Marine National Park or explore the city’s historic forts.

The best time to visit is between December and March or from July to October when it’s dry and sunny.

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Mombasa

Visit the port city and dive into its culture

Things to do around Mombasa

City tour Mombasa

Street food tour Mombasa

Cooking class

Charlie's way of travelling

Our team lives and works in Africa

We develop our own routes

Your trip is tailor-made by us

100% insured while travelling

All your burning questions about Mombasa answered

What are the main attractions in Mombasa?

Is Mombasa safe for tourists?

What are the best beaches in Mombasa?

How do I get to Mombasa from Nairobi?

What local dishes should I try in Mombasa?

Are there fun activities in Mombasa besides the beach?

When is the best time to visit Mombasa?

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