Mombasa: What To Do|History & Culture|Hotels|Attraction

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Mombasa

Mombasa is Kenya's main tourist destination. It is on the Eastern coastline of Kenya. This 2nd city borders the Indian Ocean which has made it a popular destination for its beaches.

Mombasa Mombasa offers diverse marine life, world-class hotels and a friendly atmosphere. There is a tropical climate all year; it is a great destination filled with activities for all ages.

Mombasa was ruled by the Portuguese, Arabs and British. It originated back in the 16th century. Mombasa's culture today still exhibits that of its past. There are historical ruins like Forte Jesus de Mombaça (AKA Fort Jesus). This is a historic Portugese fort. There is the Old Town are attractions influenced by Mombasa's trade culture. There are many examples of Portuguese and Islamic architecture.

The port city of Mombasa is the second largest in Kenya. It is one of the major center of tourism. Being Kenya’s chief port, Mombasa is the commercial and industrial hub. It lies on the Indian Ocean and is connected to the mainland by bridges and ferries.

History of Mombasa

Mombasa has a long history the traces can be found from the writings of the 16th century. Many traders did attempt to enforce their governance on the town. This was due to its central location, but Arab influence is felt till date.

The Arab Influence

The town of Mombasa remained the center of the Arab trade in ivory and slaves from the 8th to the 16th century. It is known that Arab traders sailed down around to the coast of Kenya. This is from the first century AD who continued to build trade along the ports of Mombasa and Lamu.

The Portuguese

Portuguese also had their influence on the port. This changed the face of the land by burning it almost three times. It is believed that Vasco da Gama was the first known European to visit Mombasa. His purpose of exploration was to spread the Christian faith. it was also to further expand Portugal’s trading area.

Mombasa became Portugal’s main trading centre of spices, cotton and coffee. This is where Fort Jesus was constructed. The Fort served as the major center for trading goods. It also protected the Portuguese from conflicts with locals. The remains of which still attracts a great deal of tourists and visitors. Slavery was highly practiced during that era, the local slaves were exchanged for goods.

Until 1698, the Portuguese controlled the city, but soon the Omani Arabs took over the charge.

The British

Finally, the British took control of Mombasa in 1895. This is when the British East African Protectorate was established.

Colonization perpetuated in Mombasa promoted European culture over the town and the Kenyan lands. Like in India, the British gained momentum and established control of the port.

They even completed a railway line in the early 1900’s from Mombasa to Uganda. This is perhaps the major landmark in the history of Mombasa. From 1887 to 1907, Mombasa remained the capital of the British East Africa Protectorate.

The British rule ended and Kenya received its independence on the 12th December 1963. Since then we have had creation of political parties and unions. They faced elections for the formation of a stable government.

Getting into Mombasa

Getting in By Air

Mombasa airport has been renovated. This has increased the frequency of flights in and out of Mombasa from European cities. Kenya Airways offers the most as far as options for traveling to/from Mombasa.

Getting in By Train

Train service is mainly provided between Nairobi and Mombasa. The advantage of traveling by railway is the ability to see wildlife up close. The train ride from Nairobi to Mombasa is estimated at 13 hours. There are meal accommodations and options of purchasing first or second class seats.

Going By Bus

Buses, are not a major mode of transportation within the city. They are mostly used for traveling outside the city. The major provider of transportation in Mombasa is Matatu. The fleet consists mostly of fourteen-seater minibuses. Matatu is quite popular with the residents.

Getting Around Mombasa

the easiest way to get around Mombasa is by taxi from center. You can also travel by the local bus-taxis (Matatus). These are mini-buses that are usually full of people to capacity. They’re cheap.

The name derives from a Swahili term that refers to ‘ma’penny. The original matatu cost three cents many years ago. They are all over and in huge numbers. They are privately owned mini-buses regulated by the government.

One can also travel using auto rickshaw’s (also called tuk-tuks). These are three wheeled private taxis. They cost about the same as Matatus. Moving from one part to the city to another is quick with these “bikes” or 'boda boda. On the plus side they are quite airy and allow you to take in the scenary as you go by.

Attractions to See

1. Bombolulu Workshops

Bombolulu Workshops was founded in 1969. It is a project of the Association for the Physically Disabled in Kenya (APDK). This center is a popular attraction for tourists. It has 150 disabled employees who create jewelry, textiles, wood and leather crafts. It is the largest rehabilitation center in Kenya.

2. Hindu Temples

This attributes to Mombasa cultural diversity. Tourist are able to go inside the Temple accompanied by a guide from the Temple. Inside you will be able to see artifacts, idols and cultural pictures/paintings. e

3. Mombasa Tusks

These four tusks are on Moi Avenue. The tusks were built in 1956 to celebrate Princess Margaret’s visit to Mombasa town. They are at the entrance to the city; they are not made of ivory as is sometimes thought, but of aluminum. An interesting thing to note is that the tusks form dual archways. This is over each side of the road creating the shape in entirety of an ‘M’ for Mombasa!

Things to Do

Old Town. Located around Ft. Jesus, this historic district has mostly been converted into souvenir shops and restaurants. A nice place to explore on a Sunday when much of the city is closed down.

Colobus Trust nature walks and conservation volunteering at Diani Beach.

Mtwapa Creek is a place to visit on Mombasa’s North Coast. An Indian Ocean inlet with some small marinas and beautiful tropical vegetation. Very famous for bird watching, mountain bike tours around the creek, and starting point for deep sea fishing trips. Mtwapa is also famous in Mombasa for its clubs and active nightlife. To get here from the city center, take a matatu from Digo road.

Nyali Theatre featuring Hollywood and Bollywood new releases. Entry is just 500 KSH, with bowling alley, casino, and Italian Restaurant. Have some Indian bhelpuri, a type of chaat. This consists of hot puffed rice, vegetables and tangy tamarind sauce while you’re there. Taxi from centre – 800 KSH, Tuk Tuk- 300 KSH. Matatus plying the Mkomani or Nyali routes – 30 ksh (Ask to alight at “Cinemax”).

Kinazini Funzi Dhow Safaris. This is 1 hr south of Mombasa off main Tanzania Rd. Bus transport from all beach hotels included Every day. Visit unspoilt Funzi Island via Dhow (traditional Arab sailing ship). Explore Ramisi River Mangroves by canoe for crocs and lots of bird life up close. Bathe on a magical sandbank in the Indian Ocean. You can also feast on a lobster and seafood BBQ on Robinson Crusoe Island.
Haller Park also called Bamburi Nature Trail. It is East Side of Links Road just North of Nyali (North on Links Road to Nyali. Look for entrance on left or ask a local). 8:30 – 5:30.Small zoo that feels like a park. Animals include giraffes, hippos (2), monkeys, and a reptile house. Guides speak English, Spanish, French and other languages. Watch out for the monkeys. They are numerous and appear friendly but do occasionally bite. 1400.
Avicennia Island kayaking goes every Tues, Thurs, Sat. For South Coast adventures, Avicennia Island is unbeatable. Kayak silently through submerged mangrove forests. You can swim & sunbathe in the emerald waters of the Funzi Sandbar. Enjoy a sumptuous seafood barbeque meal served at a delightful wooden banda. This is anopen structure, beach house, or shelter, sheltered from the elements.
Go-Kart in Shanzu, near Haller Park). Mombasa’s motor sport arena – a place to chill with your friends and thrill with your kids. Whether you’re a budding Schumacher or a first-time driver, this is the place. Go-Karting has the experience and technical know-how to put you on the right track. There is a viewing veranda located in the bar. You can order food from the bar whilst you are watching the action on the track.

Shimba Hills National Park is 30km south of Mombasa situated National Park. It is mountainous with lush tropical vegetation. This makes it particularly attractive. It is like most other well-known national parks of Kenya have steppe-like vegetation. The main attractions include the elephant habitat and the stocks of antelopes. There is the waterfall, the Mwaluganje forest and the many vantage points.

Enjoy the famous night life of Mombasa. The night life and entertainment in Mombasa is broad. It offers something for every taste. You get to enjoy local bars to exclusive lounge bar, everything is available.
In the city center there are many coffee shops, small pubs and bars as well as some small to medium sized clubs. Nightlife “special kind” is mainly found in the village Mtwapa, north of Mombasa. Its called “the village that never sleeps”.

Where to Eat in Mombasa

Mombasa is known for their diverse cuisines. Here you can enjoy Swahili, Indian, Chinese, Korean, and Italian cultures. They offer an planty of resturants and eateries to choose from. These include establishments with freshly caught seafood.

Mikaye Restaurant – Fort Jesus, Sir Mbarak Hinawy Road (Opposite Fort Jesus), 0719331880, . 6:30 am – 7pm. Mikaye is an authentic fusion restaurant. Mikaye is the first wife in dholuo one of the Nilotic tribes in Kenya. It sets the guideline for the restaurant- entailing good food. There is admirable service, great ambience hence a formidable culinary experience. With a scenic view of Fort Jesus, the decor of the restaurant is modern. It has a strong African influences. . The food is essentially a fusion of African food with touches of international cuisine. Biriani, Pilau , Kuku Kienyeji, Tilapia , Mataha.

Chinese

Chinese Galaxy – is the most visited Chinese cuisine attraction. They offer fine dining, and a wide range of selections including house specials.

Seafood

Tamarind – On the island. It is the most popular with tourists. It overlooks Old Harbour and offers freshly caught seafood, exotic menus, nightlife and entertainment.

Variety

POA Restaurant & Grill. This is at Tembo Entertainment Plaza on the North Coast, near the Nakumatt Nyali Shopping Centre. Large menu range from snacks, burgers to specialties from Germany. You will also find Italy, India, China, Thailand, as well as seafood. Open throughout the night, from 6pm to 6am.
Blue Room offers a self-serve cuisine. This range from ‘Indian Bites’ to other items like burgers, pizza, and ice cream.

Watering and Drinking Wells

There are quite many good bars, pubs and Entertainment Spots in Mombasa Town and the North Coast. Night Life is vibrant in Mombasa.

Bob’s Bar, Nyali. Lively and popular bar located near Tembo. This bar and grilll is where a lot of great nights out get started.

Fontanella Beer Garden, (Moi Avenue/Digo road Junction). Relaxed atmosphere right in the middle of the city affordable meals and drinks
Club Lambada- Mtwapa, (Mtwapa Town). 24Hrs. Found on the north coast. It offers all night disco and cabaret shows food drinks and accomodation
Sheba Lounge, (City Mall Nyali). Rooftop Bar Great Music and atmosphere
Tulia House and Camp, Off links road, Nyali, Mombasa, +254711955999, . 24h. Based in the heart of the entertainment area of Nyali in Mombasa. Tulia House and Camp offers a range of accommodation to suit every budget.

Languages spoken	English, Kiswahili
Currency used	Kenya Shillings
Area (km2)	294.7 km²
Country name	Kenya

Sports & nature

Fort Jesus
Built in 1593-1596 by the Portuguese, Fort Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Mombasa's top tourist attractions. Italian architect, Cairati, designed the structure, which is one of the world's finest examples of 16th century Portuguese military architecture. Built in the shape of a man, the fort was given the name of Jesus as a clear religious reference. The fort changed hands nine times between 1631 and 1875 before finally resting with the British. Although partially ruined, Fort Jesus houses a museum built over the former barracks for the garrison. Exhibits include a vast collection of ceramics and pottery reflecting the various cultures that traded along the coast. Fort Jesus has many battlements and ruined buildings within the compound, including Omani house, built in the late 18th century, which houses Omani jewelry and displays on Swahili life. The Passage of Arches was cut through the coral to give access to the sea.

Haller Park
Haller Park is a hit with animal lovers. Formerly called Bamburi Nature Trail, this inspirational project began in 1971 when Dr René Haller transformed the abandoned limestone quarries here into a thriving nature reserve. Dr Haller increased the mineral content of the soil, planted trees, added a fish farm, and created a wildlife park where each animal has a function within the flourishing ecosystem. Wildlife found here includes giraffes, Cape buffalo, zebras, waterbucks, and hippos. The park was also home to a famous interspecies couple that became an Internet sensation after the 130-year-old tortoise, Mzee, adopted Owen, an orphaned hippo. Birds are also abundant in the park. More than 160 species have been introduced to the area including weaver birds, cranes, pelicans, and storks. Walking and cycling paths wind through the groves of casuarina, and a reptile park, palm garden, and crocodile pens are other attractions. A highlight is the giraffe feeding; but be sure to check the times before visiting. Nature trails lead to a butterfly pavilion and the Nguuni Wildlife Sanctuary where herds of ostrich, eland, and oryx are farmed.

Mombasa Marine National Park
One of the busiest of Kenya's offshore reserves, Mombasa Marine National Park protects mangroves, seagrass beds, sandy beaches, and coral reef. Diving and snorkeling are popular activities - especially north of Mombasa, from Mtwapa Creek south to the entrance of Likoni. Seahorses, stingrays, and eels are among the marine creatures inhabiting the reserve, and the MV Dania is a popular wreck dive here. Those wishing to remain dry can view the diverse marine life from a glass-bottom boat. The popular beaches of Nyali, Bamburi, and Shanzu all provide access to the marine park.

Old Town
On the southeast side of Mombasa Island, the "Old Town" is reminiscent of the days when the Portuguese ruled this important port. The town's inhabitants are mostly of Arab, Asian, and European origin, and the architecture reflects their cultures. Ornately carved doors and balconies adorn the old buildings that jostle cheek to jowl along the narrow streets. History buffs can easily spend a couple of hours here strolling along the atmospheric alleys; snacking at one of the many cafés; and shopping for antiques, fragrant oils, spices, and souvenirs. The Portuguese-built Fort Jesus, one of Mombasa's top tourist attractions, overlooks the harbor here.

Mombasa Tusks
A famous landmark in the city, the Mombasa Tusks were built to commemorate Queen Elizabeth's visit to Mombasa in 1952. Constructed of aluminum, the tusks mark the entrance to the heart of town where visitors will find most of the banks, shops, and markets. The intersecting tusks also form the letter "M" for Mombasa.

Mamba Village Centre
Mamba Village Centre in Nyali is East Africa's largest crocodile farm. Visitors can learn about the life cycle and behavior of these fascinating amphibians and the center also offers horseback riding and a botanical garden with an aquarium. Orchids and aquatic plants are the specialty, but the gardens also display carnivorous species. A highlight for many visitors is watching the crocodiles fight for tasty morsels during feeding time. Carnivores will love the restaurant, which specializes in game meat such as crocodile, ostrich, and zebra.

Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre
Bombolulu Workshops is a project of the Association for the Physically Disabled in Kenya with four sheltered workshops, a cultural center, and restaurant. At the cultural center, visitors can enjoy tribal dance performances and explore traditional homesteads found throughout Kenya. Guests can also visit the workshops and purchase the handcrafted souvenirs, which include jewelry, textiles, wood carving, and leather crafts. Proceeds help sustain the center's work. After touring the grounds, guests can stop by the restaurant to sample Kenyan-inspired cuisine.

Mombasa Go-Kart
Mombasa Go-Kart is a hit with speedsters and kids of all ages. Zoom around the smooth concrete track in go-karts, bounce around on the off-road buggies, or learn to dig in a Bobcat excavator. After all the excitement, visitors can enjoy a snack at the family-friendly restaurant with computer games, a large playground, and a big screen showing sporting events. The Go-Kart track is floodlit at night.

Wasini Island
Generally reached by dhow, Wasini Island is a popular day trip from Mombasa. Dolphins regularly cruise these waters and passengers can stop to snorkel and dive the coral reefs along the way. The island itself is tiny - only 5 sq km. Sightseeing opportunities include visiting Wasini Village, strolling around the coastal scrub where ancient Swahili ruins lie, exploring the exposed coral gardens, and dining on fresh seafood at the small restaurant. The village of Shimoni is the launching point for Wasini Island tours and was once the headquarters of the Imperial British East Africa Company. Here, visitors can explore the Shimoni Caves, thought to hold slaves before their shipment to Arabia.

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park
South of Wasini Island, Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park is a popular spot for snorkeling, diving, and dolphin spotting - usually from the decks of a traditional dhow. The park encompasses four small islands surrounded by fish-rich coral reef. Dolphins frolic in the Shimoni Channel, and humpback whales swim these waters between August and October. Other marine life includes moray eels, angelfish, grouper, snappers, and green sea turtles. Deep-sea fishing is fantastic south to the Pemba channel.

Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills National Reserve, about 33 km south of Mombasa, offers a peaceful getaway from the hubbub of the busy beach resorts. Woodlands, waterfalls, lily-topped ponds, savanna, and rainforest provide a home for a rich diversity of plants and animals. Among the rare plants are endangered species of cycads and orchids. The park also protects one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Kenya, along with leopards, sable antelope, and abundant birdlife.

Nightlife info

If you have some extra energy after basking in the sun all day, there are several clubs around Mombasa that can be a lot of fun. The New Florida Casino & Nightclub on Mama Ngina Dr is a nice club with three bars, a big screen TV, pool tables and is right on the ocean. Cover is around KSh 250. The clientele is much the same as Florida 2000 in Nairobi. About a 10 minute drive north of Mombasa Island on Nyali Beach is Mamba Crocodile Village, an unlikely combination of a crocodile farm and disco. Cover charge changes depending on the night, but is usually around KSh 250.

Mombasa doesn’t have bars on every street corner, but there are one or two watering holes scattered around the city: the Lotus Hotel on Cathedral Rd is one of the nicest places in town for a civilized beer. There are several nightclubs on the island, too, though the busiest nightlife is in the resort area north of Mombasa, especially in Mtwapa and around Kenyatta Beach. Most of the city clubs are free, but on popular nights (Wed, Fri & Sat), entry charges of Ksh100–300 are the norm. Long before the clubs get busy, a stroll around the generally safe Old Town will uncover one or two coffee-sellers serving black kahawa from traditional high-spouted jugs.

Even more fun is the huge Tembo Entertainment Plaza, about 15 minutes north of Mombasa, near Nakumatt Nyali Shopping Centre, just opposite the famous Bamuri/Haller Nature Trail. Tembo Entertainment Plaza, one of the largest of its kind in East Africa comprises of a huge Open-Air Disco which can fit almost 3000 people, the cosy Bavaria Beer Garden, the exclusive Comfy Lounge, the international Poa Restaurant & Grill and the exotic Lollipop@GoGo Bar. On Weekends Tembo Disco is packed with hundreds of locals and tourists looking to dance the night away. The atmosphere, lay-out, and music makes this the best club in all of Kenya. Tembo Disco is open only on weekends from 9pm to 6am, Bavaria Beer Garden operates daily 24hrs around the clock with a billiard table and a Giant TV Screen. The exclusive Comfy Lounge and the Poa Restaurant & Grill open daily from 6pm to 6am. Lollipop@GoGo operates daily with nonstop exotic gogo shows from 9pm to 5am. Entrance to the entire Entertainment Centre is free on weekdays. Fridays is Ladies' Night Gents pay KShs 250/- after 10pm. On Saturdays the cover charge is KShs 250/- for all after 10pm. There’s 24hrs public transportation to Tembo and Mamba Village. The fare is about 60 US cents

Culture and history info

Mombasa has a long history the traces can be found from the writings of the 16th century. Many traders did attempt to enforce their governance on the town due to its advantageously central location, where Arab influence is felt prominently till date.

The town of Mombasa remained the center of the Arab trade in ivory and slaves from the 8th to the 16th century. It is known that Arab traders sailed down around to the coast of Kenya from the first century AD who continued to build trade along the ports of Mombasa and Lamu.

Portuguese also had their influence on the port that changed the face of the land by burning it almost three times. It is believed that Vasco da Gama was the first known European to visit Mombasa, whose purpose of exploration was to spread the Christian faith to further expand Portugal’s trading area. Mombasa became Portugal’s main trading centre of spices, cotton and coffee, where Fort Jesus was constructed. The Fort served as the major center for trading goods that protected the Portuguese from conflicts with locals the remains of which still attracts a great deal of tourists and visitors. As slavery was highly practiced during that era, the local slaves were exchanged for goods. Until 1698, the Portuguese controlled the city, but soon the Omani Arabs took over the charge.

Finally, the British took control of Mombasa in 1895, wherein the British East African Protectorate was established. Colonization perpetuated in Mombasa that promoted European culture over the town and the Kenyan lands. Like in India, the British gained momentum and established control of the port. They even completed a railway line in the early 1900’s from Mombasa to Uganda which is perhaps the major landmark in the history of Mombasa. Thus, from 1887 to 1907, Mombasa remained the capital of the British East Africa Protectorate.

The British rule ended and Kenya received its independence on the 12th December 1963. From herein, began the creation of political parties and unions that faced elections for the formation of a stable government. Though significant political shifts and oppositions led to violence, the pressure from the international and African community led the leaders to finally come to a consensus and form a power-sharing agreement.

Bamburi Beach Hotel

Bamburi Beach

From $

Bamburi Beach Hotel is on the north coast of Mombasa, Kenya. This 3 star Kenya beach hotel is set amid lush tropical gardens. This Mombasa beach resort is a glamorous all-inclusive hotel.