Kenya’s second largest city, also known as County 001, with a population of around 2,000,000 people. The busiest harbor in Kenya is located there; it services both East and Central Africa, making Mombasa the entrance to those two continents. It is located on the Indian Ocean. The city was the hub of trade, particularly exporting ivory and slaves, and was given the name Manbasa by Arab traders in the 11th century. The food, the building design, and the attire of the locals all reflect Mombasa’s strong Arabic cultural influence. Due to the influx of individuals looking for work and better living conditions from other regions of the country, the coastal city is now a melting pot of various cultures and beliefs.

How to get there

Mombasa is accessible by air through the Moi International airport in Changamwe. Also one can reach Mombasa by railway through the new Miritini Railway Terminal which was opened in 2017. The road network is good and easy to navigate making the road the best and cheapest way to reach Mombasa.

Where to visit

Within Mombasa County, there are a number of interesting places to visit. For instance, one can visit the tusks on Moi Avenue, which was built to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth the Second to the town in the year 1952, and it is a good place to take photographs as it makes a wonderful backdrop for photos. Nearby is Mombasa Old Town, where buildings date back to the 15th century and where one can find interesting architecture, art, and curios. A walk through its narrow, winding streets takes you back through centuries. Other interesting places include Fort Jesus, which was a fort constructed by the Portuguese in the 14th century overlooking the Indian Ocean. The Italian architect named Joe Batisto Cairato designed it, and it served as the Portuguese headquarters during their occupation of the East African coast. It now serves as a museum and exhibits the history and culture of the coastal people. The Mombasa marine reserve is very popular for snorkeling, diving, and viewing the beautiful coral gardens and fish. The Bamburi nature trails/Haller park is the largest animal sanctuary in Mombasa. The area where Bamburi and Haller Park is located was once a limestone quarry, which underwent a transformation to become a thriving forest. Its success is largely due to Renee Holler, who since the 1970s has been the force behind its transformation. While in Haller park, one is able to view animals, especially during the feeding time. The animals found in Haller park include giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, etc. Other activities that one can do on the Bamburi nature trails include cycling, jogging, and picnics.

Where to stay

Mombasa has many accommodations where one can stay. The choice of accommodations range from budget friendly city hotels to luxury beach hotels. Accommodations like Manson hotel, City Blue hotel, castle royal hotel and royal courts hotel offer great services at a pocket friendly price. Beach hotels like Bahari, Voyagers, Reef offer great hotel experience.

Where to eat

There are numerous locations in Mombasa where one may savor every type of food.there are international food chains like KFC in malls and shopping centers. One can also go to eateries like Tarbush and Barka to enjoy local dishes. Restaurants like Caffeserie, 10th Street, Yuls, Baobab, etc., are well liked by international tourists due to their great international food.

Where to shop

One can shop for their daily requirements in shopping malls such as City Mall, Nyali Center while in Mombasa. Supermarket chains like Carrefour, Naivas can provide almost anything that one wants to buy. For souvenirs, African handicraft, carvings, jewelry and paintings, Bombolulu workshop, is the best place shop.

How to move around

Mombasa is well served with public transport. One can simply board a matatu and go to his/her destination if you know the route, the fare price and the place to alight.

Night Life

Mombasa has a colorful nightlife with plenty of venues and clubs that offer a party experience. Mombasa’s Bamburi area is fast becoming a popular place for revelers as many clubs and pubs have opened there. Clubs like Mint, Samba, and The Place are currently the go-to places for merrymaking by the locals. Other areas, like Nyali, offer more classy and friendly entertainment spots.