Mombasa travel guide
Kenya's historic coastal city is known for its Swahili architecture, Fort Jesus, and its launch point for the north and south coast beach towns.
Overview
Mombasa is Kenya’s second-largest city and its main coastal hub, blending centuries of Swahili, Arab, Portuguese, and British history with a busy modern port. Most beach travelers pass through Mombasa on their way to Diani (south) or Nyali/Kilifi/Watamu (north), but the Old Town itself is worth a day for its architecture, markets, and food.
Best time to visit
Jan–Mar, Jul–Oct
Main airport
Moi Intl (MBA)
Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KSh)
Flight time from Nairobi
~1 hour
Gorilla trekking permits (booked separately through the Rwanda Development Board) are limited and often sell out months ahead, especially in peak season. Book permits before locking in flights and stays.
Related guides
Mombasa to Diani: how to get there→
One day in Mombasa Old Town→
North coast vs south coast: which to pick→
Where to go
Fort Jesus
16th-century Portuguese fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Old Town Mombasa
Narrow streets, carved wooden doors, and Swahili-Arab architecture.
Nyali Beach
Closest beach area to the city, popular with resort-style stays.
Haller Park
Rehabilitated quarry turned wildlife sanctuary giraffes, hippos, and more.
Getting around
Tuk-tuks and taxis are the easiest way to get around the city and Old Town. For trips further along the coast of Diani, Kilifi, and Watamu, hiring a car is the more comfortable option given the distances involved.