Mombasa is a city located on Kenya’s coast. It is an important cultural and economic center, with a large port and an international airport. Situated on the eastern coast of Kenya, in Mombasa County, the city has a rich history as a trading hub due to its position along the Indian Ocean. Throughout history, Mombasa has been controlled by various countries because of its strategic location.
Mombasa – places to visit in Mombasa
Diani Beach
Diani Beach is a popular beach on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast, located 30 kilometers south of Mombasa. It has been recognized as Africa’s top beach destination multiple times since 2015. The beach is known for its coral reefs, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve, which offers views of the Indian Ocean. Diani Beach also has hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and shopping centers.
Haller Park
Haller Park is a nature reserve in Bamburi, Mombasa, Kenya. It was transformed from a former quarry into an ecological park. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills National Reserve is a small reserve located in the Coast Province of Kenya. The area consists of coastal rainforest, woodland, and grassland. It is rich in plant biodiversity, with many rare species, including endangered cycad and orchid species. It’s also a key location for bird and butterfly watching.
Arabuko Sokoke Forest
Arabuko Sokoke Forest is a protected forest reserve on Kenya’s coast. It is known for its high level of species endemism, housing unique mammals, birds, and plants. The forest contains three different types of ecosystems: mixed forest, Brachystegia, and Cynometra, each supporting different species of flora and fauna.
Mombasa Marine National Park
Mombasa Marine National Park is a marine reserve located off the coast near Mombasa. It is one of the most visited marine parks in Kenya, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The park is known for its vibrant coral reefs.
Kaya
Kaya is a sacred forest of the Mijikenda people in the former Coast Province of Kenya. It holds deep cultural significance as a place for prayer, rituals, and cultural identity. The Kaya forests are an important part of the local tradition.
Tudor Creek
Tudor Creek is one of two main water bodies that separate Mombasa Island from the mainland. The creek flows into the Indian Ocean and passes under the Nyali Bridge, bordered by the Makupa Causeway on the west.
Pirates Public Beach
Pirates Public Beach, also known as Jomo Kenyatta Beach, is a popular destination for beachgoers who want to enjoy social activities and entertainment. It is known for its sandy shores, where locals and families come to swim, relax, and spend time together.
Rabai Museum
Rabai Museum is located in Kenya’s first Christian church, built in 1846. The museum focuses on the work of Johann Ludwig Krapf and Johannes Rebmann, the missionaries who built the church and contributed to the region’s early Christian history.
Ngomongo Villages
Ngomongo Villages is an eco-tourism site where visitors can experience traditional Kenyan tribal villages. The site is located in a former quarry, which has been rehabilitated to promote sustainable development while providing cultural and environmental benefits to the local community.
Best time to visit Mombasa
The best time to visit Mombasa is from July to October. During this period, the weather is dry and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits. The temperatures are moderate, with less humidity. It’s also a great time to explore the local attractions and enjoy the coastal scenery. Avoiding the rainy season ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable experience.
