Mombasa
Mombasa with a population of over 1 million, is the second-largest city in Kenya. It is particularly known for its warm and sunny climate, white beaches and coral reef diving.
Understand
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Mombasa is one of the oldest cities in sub-Saharan Africa, and its precise date of founding remains unknown. The first accounts of Mombasa date back to the 12th century, when the Arab geographer Al Idrisi mentioned it as a a prosperous trading post in his writings. Pre-colonial Mombasa was a prosperous city state in a region of East Africa known as the Swahili Coast, which also included other city states such as Zanzibar and Kilwa Kisiwani, and a main centre for trade between Africa and the Arab World, with trade routes even going as far as India and China. At different points in history, Mombasa would be ruled by the Portuguese, Arabs and British. The city's culture today still exhibits that of its pasts. Historical ruins like Fort Jesus and the Old Town are attractions that display the history in Mombasa.
The central part of the city, Mvita, is an island in a river delta, accessed by bridges and from the south by ferries operating around the clock. It is a very cosmopolitan city, and you can see a group of Muslims wearing niqab (here known as "bui bui") and Giryama people wearing almost nothing at the same time and place.
Together with Nairobi, it is the only place in the country that has a status as both city and county.
Orientation
The city of Mombasa is divided into four administrative divisions. These are clearly geographically defined and are therefore useful for orientation.As in many other metropolises, it is difficult to distinguish the newer areas from the original city (Mvita). By 2009, 90% of the urban area was built up. And as in all major Sub-Saharan African cities, there are several shantytowns in the suburbs. The largest is Kisauni-Kongowea in Kisauni, and others include Chaani-Magongo and Miritini in Changamwe as well as Mtongwe in Likoni.
Most hotels and activities are concentrated on the island of Mvita and along the northern coast in the Kisauni division.
Climate
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The climate is tropical with a major rain season between mid-April and late May and a minor wet season in October and November. Being in the Southern Hemisphere, the summer, with temperatures above 32°C, occurs in January and March. At just 4° south of the Equator, the variation in temperature is relatively small.
History
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Several travellers and explorers passed through the region starting no later than the 1st century, but the first written record of the city was by the Moroccan Ibn Battuta in 1330. It said Mombasa was "a very rural island without territorial dependency on the continent with mosques and forests and the inhabitants nourishing themselves on bananas and fish". On 7 April 1498, the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama arrived and stayed for six days, and this was the end of peace in this small town. Under orders of Francisco de Almeida, the Portuguese returned to pillage the village in 1505 and 1528 before capturing it in 1529. They constructed Fort Jesus in 1593, together with five smaller forts, and made Mombasa a Portuguese stronghold on the route to India. The years between 1600 and 1832 were marked by successive battles between the Portuguese and the Sultanate of Oman, who conquered it.
In 1856 the sultanate of Muscat and Oman split into two and Mombasa fell into the sphere of the sultanate of Zanzibar, of which it was part until it was conquered by Britain in 1895. Mombasa served as capital of the East Africa Protectorate from 1898-1905. During this time the city's new port and the railway to Uganda were constructed. The East Africa Protectorate was dissolved in 1920 and the area was thereafter known as the Colony and Protectorate of Kenya. Mombasa remained the capital of Kenya until the country attained independence in 1963, and has served as a provincial capital ever since.
Tourist information
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Tourist Office
address: Bima Tower, Digo Rd
Get in
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Mombasa is an important node for all forms of transportation. It is the end of the Trans-African Route 8 from Lagos and of the railway to Uganda. It has an international airport, Moi Airport, and one of Eastern Africa's most important ports, Kilindini, which is also the main port for goods to Uganda, Burundi and Rwanda.
By plane
The flight between Nairobi and Mombasa takes some 45 minutes, enough time for a cold drink and a view of the Tsavo East National Park. The flag carrier Kenya Airways as well as the low-cost airlines Jambojet, Silverstone Air and Fly540 (Five Forty Aviation) ply this route. There are direct flights from European cities such as Bologna, Frankfurt, London, Milan, Rome, and also from Addis Ababa, Zanzibar, Dubai, Kigali, Istanbul, Moroni, Dar es Salaam and Doha.Airlines that fly to Mombasa are
- Kenya Airways
- Jambojet
- Fly540
- Ethiopian Airlines
- RwandAir
- Tukish Airlines
- Mombasa Air Safari
- Fly-Sax
- Silverstone Air
- Qatar Airways
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phone: +254 716 694306address: Road C110, Barack Obama RdThe airport in Mombasa has been renovated and has increased the frequency of flights in and out of Mombasa from European cities. Moi Airport is the second most important airport in Kenya, after Jomo Kenyatta in Nairobi. It is in Changamwe, 6 km from Mombasa Island to which is linked by the roads 110 (Barack Obama Road) and 109.
A Transfer Taxi or ("Tuk-Tuk") is the most common way to get to the city centre from the airport. as of 2018 the fares for a regular taxi ride is between Ksh 1500-3000. Uber or Taxify are much cheaper, while a Tuk-Tuk ride will cost only Ksh 200. You need to walk 300m out from the airport car park to get a Tuk-Tuk .
Some hotels offer shuttle services from the airport for a fee. There are also cars to rent. - Money exchange: At the exit from the airport to the right is an ATM, where you can withdraw Kenya Shilling with your card (ensure the card works in Kenya at your bank). This is much cheaper than cash exchange. A bank for exchange is also available at the airport.
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Bamburi Airport
address: Off Old Shimo La Tewa Road, BamburiThe budget carrier Air Kenya Express operates charter flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Bamburi Airport.
By boat
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There are three ways to get to Mombasa by boat: by private boat, cruise ship or ferry.
By private boat
On Mombasa Island there are two sailing clubs open to non-members and two hotels with marinas open to non-guests.-
phone: +254 733 923429, +254 733 610754address: Kilindini Harbour
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Mombasa Water Sport
address: Tudor Creek -
phone: +254 717 556691address: Tudor Creek
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phone: +254 786 456777address: Tudor Creek
By cruise ship
Some companies offer cruises that call at Mombasa:-
phone: +44 845 5051920Cruises on board MS Nautica.
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phone: +377 97702424 (Monaco), +49 69 920399340 (Frankfurt)
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phone: +44 238 0682140
By ferry
If you are arriving overland from the south, you need to cross the river by taking the Likoni Ferry.-
phone: +254 20 2118344, +254 723 664000address: Likoni-Ukunda RdThe ferry is free for pedestrians.
By train
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Mombasa to Nairobi:
# Departure 08:00, arrival: 13:42
# Departure 15:15, arrival 20:14
Nairobi to Mombasa:
#Departure 08:20, arrival: 14:18
#Departure 14:35, arrival: 19:18
By bus
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- The one-way non air condition bus fare to Nairobi is from Ksh 1000 and the trip takes at least 12 hours by day or 10 hours by night. (Best to take a five hour air condition express train) .
- bus Companies operating this route include include Mash Poa, Coastbus, Dreamliner, Spanish Coach, and Modern Coast Express.
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Bus station
address: Mwembe Tayari Rd -
phone: +254 723 463 685 (Mombasa)address: corner of Mwembe Tayari Rd & Jomo Kenyatta AvDestinations: Nairobi, Kisumu, Kampala.
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Coast Bus
phone: +254 20 24519000 (Nairobi), +254 41 2220916 (Mombasa)address: corner of Mwembe Tayari Rd & Jomo Kenyatta AvDestinations: Nairobi, Voi. -
phone: +254 729 403589address: Jomo Kenyatta Av (station: Caltex)Destinations: Nairobi, Malindi, Voi, Dar es Salaam (Tanzania).
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phone: +254 722 550111Destinations: Witu, Malindi, Lamu.
- Dreamliner Mombasa Road. Nairobi and Malindi .
- Spanish Coach Mombasa Road. Nairobi .
- Buscar Mombasa Road. Nairobi and Malindi.
By car
Kenya drives on the left and it will likely take some time to adapt to the local traffic culture. Drive in daytime only and keep the car doors locked, especially in urban areas. In Kenya foreign drivers must have an international driver's licence. These can be obtained through automobile clubs, travel agencies, or from the Road Transport Office located in the Income Tax House in Nairobi.-
phone: +254 20 4999999address: Tumbo Ave
Most international rental agencies are present at least at Nairobi airport. From Nairobi the distance to Mombasa is 525 km and the drive takes 6-12 hours, depending on the presence of police controls along the road, congestion on the section between Mariakani and Mombasa and the breaks you take. Voi is a good place to stop for lunch (this is also where buses stop).
From central Nairobi, take route 104 (Huhuru Highway) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Athi River. From there route 109 to Mombasa.
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address: Makena House, Wajir Road
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phone: +254 736 750006
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phone: +254722417475address: Moi International AirportAffordable car rental rates, Easy car rental terms, Pick and drop from 67 locations in Kenya. Optional driver, 24 hours support
Get around
The traffic will likely appear chaotic to a westerner. Traffic laws are not respected, even when police are present.
By minibus
There is no regular public transportation network in the city. The closest equivalent are the aforementioned matatus (minivans) of which there are about 3500 (licensed ones have stickers on the windshields) in the city. They're cheap — ask someone at the hotel what the going rate is and don't let them scam you. Don't expect to be comfortable; as the drivers want to take as many passengers as possible, you will often be crammed in like a sardine. A matatu ride starts from Ksh 20 just to go 500m (2018)but count on paying double if you want a vehicle which conforms to the traffic legislation. Certain lines connect Mombasa and Malandi, the ride taking about two hours at a price of Ksh 350. Alternatively, book a shuttle bus to collect you from your accommodation and drop you directly at your accommodation in Mombasa - this is more expensive costing around Ksh 1000, but is much quicker and far less hassle. The shuttles can be booked online and are run by Hakuna Mutatu Bus.By tuk-tuk and motorcycle
For the more adventurous there are tuk-tuks (motorized trikes with a cabin for the passengers) and boda-bodas (bicycle taxis). The latter is a rather dangerous and scary mode of getting around. The price for a tuk-tuk ride is Ksh 50-100 and boda-boda around Ksh 50. You can get a Tuk-tuk to the new railway station for Ksh250 per person. or 300m from the airport for ksh200 per person.By taxi
Official and unofficial taxis are also available. Taxis don't have taxi signs on the roof, but license papers stuck to the windshields. The ride is in general paid beforehand after some negotiation and you can expect the driver to stop at a service station to fill up just the necessary amount to get you to your destination. A ride from the airport to central Mombasa costs Ksh 1000-3000 (2018).A much cheaper alternative to regular taxis are the shuttle services Uber, Taxify, Little, Mondo Ride, MaraMoja. You can get fares online and thereby avoid getting overcharged, as many taxi drivers like to do to tourists. A cheaper alternative is a shared taxi: Hakuna Mutatu Bus operates on the Kenya Coast and a ride from Mombasa costs roughly Ksh 1000 and takes 1hr 30min. The shared taxi is a door-to-door service, meaning you will be collected from your current accommodation in Mombasa, Kilifi or Watamu and dropped directly at your next accommodation in Diani.
By car
It is also possible to rent a car with or without a driver. If you need to get around a lot but are scared of driving, you can usually negotiate fares for longer periods (e.g. one day) with taxi drivers. Do this only after a "test ride", as taxi drivers are not always knowledgeable of the city.-
phone: +254 41 2224161, +254 725 292000The local Red Cross office tweets real time information about accidents, demonstrations and other things that may interrupt traffic.
See
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Considering Mombasa's action-filled history, surprisingly there are only a handful of sights. The nature and a slew of different activities is what makes Mombasa interesting for visitors. In addition to these, there are a couple of sights within 20-30 km north, west and south of Mombasa. These are listed under #Go next.
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phone: +254 720 650869address: Fort Jesus RdFort Jesus is the most popular destination in Mombasa. Built between 1593 and 1596 by the Portuguese to protect the port against the Ottomans, this fort was in military use for over three centuries. It got its name from the Portuguese fleet sailing under the flag of the Order of Christ (Ordem de Nosso Senhor Jesus Cristo). The fort is an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. Fort Jesus holds artifacts from when Mombasa was a transit port for the slave trade. There are torture rooms, cells, and many other displays from the 16th century. During the British period the fort functioned as a prison and today part of the cells are used as a museum. Many exhibits come from the Portuguese frigate Santo António de Tanna that sank in 1697, including African and Indian pottery, Chinese china, different objects used by the crew and two bronze cannons. Another part of the collection is dedicated to archeological finds from the Kenyan coast. Moreover there are Arabic military equipment, musical instruments and a series of cannons from the 18th and 19th centuries. In the small park next to the entrance there is a 105-mm cannon that belonged to the Imperial German Navy.
The Butterfly House is right next to Fort Jesus, so very easy to incorporate into a trip round the Fort and Old Town, but also well worth a visit on its own. Although small, is packed with both beautiful and interesting creatures. You can view butterflies from their larval stage to grown ups. See also evidences of slave trade and an amphitheatre that's being restored. Have a nice view of the LA marina. There is also a small shop. Fort St JosephClose to the golf course near Mama Ngina Drive, this ruin is probably the oldest fortress on the island built by Arabs. It stood when Vasco Da Gama first came to Mombasa. It is not really impressive but it's a nice viewpoint too and worth a visit.
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Old town
address: Districts of Makadara and MzizimaAlong Tudor Creek north of Fort Jesus, these districts make up the original city. It is an example of typical Swahili architecture with a much more peaceful ambience than the rest of the city. Much of it has been converted into souvenir shops and restaurants and here you can find artisanal stores selling silver jewellery and small furniture. If you are afraid of getting lost among the small streets or don't want to miss anything, there are guides at the esplanade of Fort Jesus that can show you around the old town for Ksh 1000. A nice place to explore on a Sunday when much of the city is closed down.
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The tusks of Moi avenue
address: Moi AveThe tusks were built in 1956 to welcome Princess Margaret who was visiting Mombasa town. Today they are some of the most characteristic landmarks of Mombasa. They are located at the entrance to the city and not made of ivory as is sometimes thought, but of steel. The tusks form an M (which stands for Mombasa). Leven HouseIn the 19th century this building was the headquarters of the British Navy's anti-slavery campaigns in the region. It is named after a British warship. Later the building has been used by missionaries, a shipping company and as a consulate. The is a restaurant in the building.
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address: Nyerere AveThe neo-Gothic building right in downtown is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa and a visible landmark.
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Hindu templesThanks to its Indian community Mombasa has several beautiful Hindu temples (mandirs) to visit. Visitors are able to go inside the temple accompanied by a guide from the temple. Inside there are artifacts, idols and cultural pictures and paintings.
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address: Coin de Haile Selassie Avenue and Bajuni RoadConstructed in 1957, it is the oldest mandir of Swaminarayan Hinduism outside India.
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address: Beach Road, NyaliThis complex of 8100 m² serves the Krishna Consciousness community and includes a vegetarian restaurant.
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Lord Shiva Temple
address: Mwenye Aboud RdSikh temple worth visiting thanks to its gardens.
Mangrove of Tudor CreekIt is possible to visit the mangrove forests of the Kombeni and Tsalu rivers which form the Tudor Creek. To do that, ask a fisherman at Cape Kiberamni or Junda Creek to take you there.
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phone: +254 41 5485901address: Malindi Road, BamburiA zoological garden of about 75 hectares created in 1985 on the site of a formal coral reef. Animals include giraffes, hippos, monkeys, and reptiles. The park has two famous animals: Owen and Mzee. The former is a hippopotamus that was orphanized by the tsunami of 2004 and the second a tortoise that "adopted" the young hippo to the astonishment of the scientists. The best time to visit is between 14:00 and 15:00 when the animals are fed. Guides speak English, Spanish, French and other languages. Watch out for the monkeys, they are numerous and appear friendly but do occasionally bite.
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phone: +254 700 337 068The Nguuni Nature sanctuary is 4 km from Lafarge Bamburi Cement on the Nguu Tatu Hills and is the home to many animal, like giraffes, elands, oryx, waterbucks, ostriches and many different birds. It is a very good place to experience nature and safari feeling on foot. The wetlands with small lakes are an interesting place for bird watchers, who have the opportunity to observe many different species of birds. Large Doum Palm crowned by Leopard Orchids are scattered in the grassland. It is also a wonderful place for a nice afternoon with friends or family or just for a long walk followed by a sundowner. You can book the barbecue place for Ksh 2,000 for private parties. For Ksh 1200 you can hire a safari vehicle for 1-1.5 hours for animal watching. Transport entrance to the picnic area: Ksh 250.
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Mamba Village & Lunar Park
address: Links Road, NyaliA park of 20 hectares whose principal attraction is a farm with around 10,000 crocodiles. There is horseback and camel riding and the park also has a restaurant and a bar. The best time to visit is around 5PM when the crocodiles are fed. Next to the crocodile farm is a lunar park with several attractions for kids
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Mombasa was a military base during both world wars, and there are two military cemeteries:
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Commonwealth War Cemetery Mbaraki
address: Mbaraki RdThe final resting place for 197 Commonwealth soldiers of which 51 died in World War I and 146 in World War II, plus two French soldiers. -
Commonwealth War Cemetery Manyimbo
address: Makaburini RdGraves of 225 Commonwealth soldiers and two other soldiers from World War II.
Do
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Beaches and water
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There are 3 main beaches north of Mombasa. First is Nyali Beach which is frequented mostly by locals as the water quality is not very good due to the closeness to the town that has no functioning waste water treatment plants. The next is Bamburi Beach. It's a very nice beach with many hotels, resorts, pubs, apartments, shops and beach boys and beach girls looking for tourist company or to sell all kinds of souvenirs. The beach is frequented a lot by locals and tourists. Its the most lively beach of Mombasa with good night live too. Shanzu Beach is the most scenic beach of Mombasa and less frequented than Bamburi Beach. Day and night life is there but less than at Bamburi beach. Further to the North are the beaches of Mtwapa.
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phone: +254 726 337000address: Links Road, NyaliWater amusement park with 15 different toboggans. On hot days this is a good place to cool yourself. The water park is reportedly modern and clean. Other activities on site include a gaming arcade, a "disco arena" and several theme rides as well as food court.
Diving
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Mombasa Marine National Park and Marine Reserve
phone: +254 41 2312744For divers the main attraction is the Leven coral reef in the Mombasa Marine National Park and Marine Reserve. Including reef crest habitats of the Bamburi-Nyali fringing reef and a part of the lagoon, this is the Kenya's most popular marine park. It has an area of 10 km 2 and is part of a larger reserve of 200 km 2 . There are three wrecks that can be visited. -
phone: +254 728 999226 and +254 728 999225address: Mount Kenya Road, NyaliA company organizing diving courses for beginners and intermediate divers and diving trips in the waters outside Mombasa. They have an office on Zanzibar too.
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phone: +254 722 412302 (also for WhatsApp)address: Mount Kenya Road, NyaliDiving school for beginners and intermediate divers and diving tours to several wreck sites. Also specialty courses like shark awareness. Service in several languages.
Fishing
You can catch big fishes in Mombasa, including barracuda, yellow tuna and all three species of marlin.-
phone: +254 722 411534address: Off Serena RdOffshore fishing in the Indian Ocean. Tours include fishing equipment and cold drinks. Their boats can also be chartered.
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phone: +254 722 502712address: Link Road, KongoweaSingle and multiple day fishing tours on the ocean. Tours include fishing equipment and cold drinks.
Parks and greenery
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Mama Ngina Park
address: Mama Ngina DrHere you can look at the ships arriving in and leaving from the port and the ferry crossing over to Likoni, and take in some fresh ocean air. -
Bamburi Forest Trails and Butterfly Park
address: Malindi Road, BamburiThe forested area most visited by locals and tourists is in Bamburi. It has many ponds, covers and area of 100 ha and you can get around by foot or bike. Nguuni Wildlife Sanctuary is located here, a place where you can encounter giraffes, ostriches, oryx and deers in semi-liberty. In the Butterfly Pavillion you can admire 16 species of living butterflies. Jomvu KuuIf you wish to get off the beaten path, there is a paved road north of Miritini (near the airport) which leads through a savanna landscape to the small village of Jomvu Kuu from where you have a view over the mangrove forest.
Tiwi BeachTiwi Beach is a quiet beach on Mombasas south coast, not spoiled by mass tourism. Take the Likoni ferry to the south by taxi (ca. USD50) from Mombasa city center.
Mtwapa CreekMtwapa Creek is a place to visit on Mombasa's north coast. It's an Indian Ocean inlet with some small marinas and beautiful tropical vegetation which is very famous for bird watching, mountain bike tours around the creek and starting point for deep sea fishing trips.
Nguuni Nature SanctuaryNguuni Nature sanctuary is 4 km from Lafarge Bamburi Cement on the Nguu Tatu Hills and is the home to many animal, like Giraffes, Elands, Oryx, Waterbucks, Ostriches and many different birds. It is a very good place to experience nature and safari feeling on foot. From Mombasa by public transport either take matatu which go straight to Kiembeni & alight at Turkey bazer than walk along Mwakirunge Rd. About 200 m from the Kiembeni Rd. on the left you will find the NNS sign/entrance or take Bamburi matatu, alight at Bamburi “mwisho" and take a connect matatu to Kiembeni & alight at Turkey base!
Culture
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phone: +254 723 560933address: Bombolulu Estate, KisauniTraditional Kenyan dance performances and sale of jewellery, leather, textiles and carved wood.
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phone: +254 41 447000address: Tamarind Road, KongoweaNyali Theatre featuring Hollywood and Bollywood new releases (Ksh 500). Two cinema rooms with digital cinema equipment. Also bowling alley, casino, and Italian restaurant. Have some bhel puri while you're there. Taxi from centre Ksh 800, Tuk Tuk Ksh 300. Parking.
Sport
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phone: +254 721 485247address: ShanzuA 500-m go-cart track, dirt track for buggies and training track for bulldozer driving. Also has a restaurant and a bowling alley.
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phone: +254 41 2228531, +254 723 580921address: Mama Ngina DrA membership golf club, founded in 1911, with a 9-hole golf course. A yearly golf tournament, the "Barry Cup" is arranged here.
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phone: +254 20 2653881, +254 726 414477address: Links Road, NyaliThis club has a 18-hole course, a driving range, two putting greens and a chipping green. You can rent clubs and buy equipment in the golf club's shop. For those interested in other sports, Nyali Golf Club also has a swimming pool, gym, tennis and squash courts. They have a restaurant and bar too.
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phone: +254 41 2224226, +254 727 288111address: Mnazi Moja RdKenya's second oldest sports club, founded in 1896. Also non-members are welcome to come and play tennis, squash, bowling, snooker or even bridge.
Mombasa Yacht ClubCool place to relax away from the town centre hassles. Non-members and non-sailors come to enjoy the restaurant with view overlooking the harbour.
Gambling
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phone: +254 41 4471071address: Cement Silo Road, KongoweaPoker, blackjack and other card games, roulette and slot machines. Occasional poker tournaments. Free transport from hotels on demand.
Events
There are many kinds of events during the year:Marathon and triathlonOrganized since 1985 in the Southern Hemisphere fall by the International Triathlon Federation. Since 2006 there has been a yearly triathlon event in the Austral spring.
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phone: +254 41 2225048, +254 733 439999address: Coin de Moi Avenue and Kwa Shibu RoadOrganized by the Alliance française.
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Dragon Boat Race
address: Tudor CreekA race of dragon boats, each of which has 20 rowers and a tambourine player giving the rhythm. -
phone: +254 721 485247address: ShanzuGo-cart endurance race on three racing courses. Arranged on the aforementioned go-cart track.
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Carnival
address: Moi AveHappens in November on the streets of Mvita. It is a colorful parade of around 50 chariots and 3000 dancers from all over Kenya in traditional costumes. -
Fireworks
address: NyaliThe New Year's firework show is arranged by the hotels at Nyali beach. Safari RallyA yearly Kenya National Rally Championship race.
Safaris and excursions
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phone: +254 41 2319808, +254 720 894288address: Jeneby House, Moi AveKenya safaris from 1-7 days in length and other local tours from 1-3 days in length. Destinations include Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Park as well as ocean safaris and air safaris.
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phone: +254 41 2318081, +254 722 901382address: Jeneby House, Moi AveOrganizes safaris, 1-10 days in length, some of them from a hot air balloon and excursions from 3 hr to a full day. Destinations include Tsavo East National Park and Lake Nakuru National Park.
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phone: +254-734-603-250On these safaris you can visit the unspoilt Funzi Island by dhow (traditional Arab sailing ship) as well as explore the Ramisi River Mangroves by canoe for crocs and lots of birdlife up close. The island has beaches for sunbathing and swimming in the ocean, and a restaurant serving lobster and seafood barbecue.
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Avicennia Island
phone: +254 724 414860address: info@kayakingkenya.comAvicenna Island is a place for outdoor activities, such as kayaking through submerged mangrove forests, and sunbathing and swimming the Funzi Sandbar. You can also enjoy seafood barbecue at the Wooden Banda restaurant. -
phone: +254735353589address: Jomo Kenyatta AvenueWild Kenya Safaris offers day tours and safaris starting from Mombasa, Diani Beach and other places in Kenya. Duration of the trips are from 1 to 3 days and destinations include Tsavo East and Lualenyi and Kisite Marine Park.
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phone: +254723627487address: 5209, 80401 Diani Beach KenyaKenya safaris from 1-9 days in duration and other local tours within Mombasa and Nairobi that are from 1-3 days in length. Destinations include Tsavo East National Park and Kisite Marine Park
Buy
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Like in all of Africa, haggling is common in small shops. Especially if you are an obvious foreigner, the initial price is usually higher than what is normally paid for the merchandise.
The best places for buying souvenirs are the districts of Kinyozi, Mwembe and Tayari which are surrounding Haile Selassie Road and also Biashara Street (Biashara means "commerce" in Swahili). Specialities include:
- kitenge (vitenge in plural): fabrics decorated with colorful motifs for women to be worn around the waist or tied on the head
- kanga: similar to kitenge but also decorated with a border running along the sides and a written Swahili proverb.
- kikoi (vikoi in plural): the "kitenge" for men, sometimes made of wool and usually decorated with strips or tartan
- batik: originating on Java, batik has been known on the Kenyan coast for centuries. The pieces are cloths are woven by hand but not hand painted. Should not be washed in a washing machine.
- kiondo or chondo (vyondo in plural): handmade handbag with leather trim often beautifully decorated with beads or shells
- ndala: hand-made sandals made from leather and old tires (for the soles), these stylish shoes are a great souvenir from Mombasa. Local craftsman use colorful beads and pieces of leather to create a vast variety of shapes and decorations. No two pairs are alike. Ksh 500.
In the old town you can find stores selling silver jewellery and small furniture handmade in typical Swahili style. Also here, haggling is the rule.
There are two important workshops selling their productions directly to customers:
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Bombolulu Workshops & Cultural Centre
phone: +254 723 560933address: Bombolulu Estate, KisauniCultural center that sells jewelery, leather and textile products as well as wooden sculptures created by one of the 150 artisans with a physical handicap who are working there. Bombolulu Workshops was founded in 1969 and is a project of the Association for the Physically Disabled in Kenya. This center is a popular attraction for tourists and has 150 disabled employees who create jewelry, textiles, wood and leather crafts. It is the largest rehabilitation center in Kenya. -
phone: +254 41 3432241address: Barracks Obama Road, ChaaniDecorative and useful objects made of sculpted wood. The carvings are hand made and hence each piece is unique. You can see the artisans at work in the shop and there's a showroom with a wide range of exhibits. In the hall for the tourists, prices are higher than on the opposite side of the ground, where wholesalers buy.
Banks and ATMs
- All the banks on this list have no ATM fees for overseas cards.
- Equity Bank has ATMs all over Mombasa that accept Mastercard, Visa, Union Pay, American Express, JCB and Diners cards.
- Ecobank on Jomo Kenyatta.
Barclays and Standard Chatered BanksKsh 400 fee for all overseas bank cards.
Shopping malls & supermarkets
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phone: +254 711415415address: Malindi RoadFirst modern shopping mall in Mombasa. Has a Shoprite Hypermarket.
Naivas SupermarketsFour stores, including one next to City mall. One on the 2nd floor of Mwembe Tayari Mall Mombasa City centre. One in Ukunda near Diani Beach. One in Bamburgh.
- Tuskys Supermarkets. 7:30AM-9:30PM has seven stores around Mombasa.
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Budget Supermarket
phone: +254 723-526218address: Digo RoadA second store is on Kwa Shibu Road. -
A One Supermarket Ltd
phone: +254 41-2220105address: Hospital Street -
Chandarana Food Plus Supermarket
address: Kaunda AvenueThere is a second store at Diani Beach. - Nawal Centre Department store. George Margaret Road. 8:30AM-7PM. A 7-floor department store with prices.
Eat
Budget
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Tea salons and ice cream bars
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phone: +254 775 269326address: Tamarind Road, KongoweaTea salon, pastries, ice cream and free Wi-Fi.
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Pistacchio Café
address: Meru RdIce cream and coffee bar that also serves buffet lunch.
Self-catering
If you who want to prepare your meals yourself, the easiest and most hygienic way is to go to one of the two big supermarkets such as Naivas or Tuskys.
- Naivas supermarkets have four outlets in Mombasa one in Nyaii and one in Bamburi and one in city centre.
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phone: +254 41 2319621, +254 729 403873address: Haile Selassie Rd
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Ratna shopping mall
address: Nyali Road, Kongowea -
phone: +254 41 4477000, +254 711 415415address: Malindi Road, NyaliLarge mall with a Shoprite Hypermarket.
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Kongowea Market
address: Links Road, KongoweaKongowea market is one of the largest in Kenya with over 1500 stalls and an area of 4.75 ha. Worth visiting for its ambiance, colors and smells. Take care with meat products because they are not always what the signs say. If you want to take photos of the vendors and their stalls, ask permission first. Also, pickpockets operate in the market, so don't show your expensive camera or phone more than necessary.
Mid-range
Forodhani RestaurantVery nice, on the edge of the old town directly overlooking the creek
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Island Dishes
address: Kibokoni RdKenyan and North African cuisine. This restaurant has got good reviews for their food. -
Mubins Cafe
address: Kisauni RdEast African cuisine, specializing in barbecue and other meat dishes. Outdoor seating as well. -
phone: +254 722 671475address: Serena Road, ShanzuKenyan and Swiss cuisine, sandwiches and similar snacks. If you want rösti or fondue while in Mombasa, here they serve it.
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address: Malindi Road, NyaliEthiopian cuisine and fast food. Becomes a lounge in the nighttime with DJs and live music.
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phone: +254 721 786868Indian and Asian cuisine, hamburgers and special ice cream. Self service.
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phone: +254 41 2224801address: Fatemi House, Mungano StIndian cuisine with a long menu of both meat and vegetarian dishes.
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phone: +254 41 4470000, +254 733 470000address: Tamarind Road, KongoweaVegetarian restaurant with dishes from various Indian cuisines, non-smoking section, catering service.
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Maharajah
phone: +254 734 126699address: Malindi Road, BamburiIndian cuisine. -
phone: +254 41 5487460address: Malindi Road, BamburiItalian and Japanese cuisine, disco. They have a lounge and a sushi bar and specialize in seafood.
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Misono
phone: +254 41 471454address: Links Road, NyaliJapanese cuisine. Table reservation is mandatory. -
Galaxy Chinese Restaurant Mombasa
phone: +254 11 311256address: Mama Ngina DrThe most visited Chinese restaurant with a large menu including house specialties. -
Smugglers Cove Seafood
phone: +254 702 868430address: Mount Kenya Road, NyaliSeafood and fish. -
Sea Haven
address: Off Malindi Road, ShanzuSeafood and fish. Terrace overlooking the ocean. -
Hunters Steack House
phone: +254 41 957474address: Off Cement Silo Road, KongoweaInternational cuisine, barbecue, homemade pastries. -
phone: +254 41 5485950address: Malindi Road, BamburiInternational cuisine, barbecue, homemade ice cream.
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address: Malindi Road, BamburiTembo Entertainment Plaza on the North Coast, near the Nyali shopping centre. Large menu ranging from snacks and burgers to specialties from Germany, Italy, India, China, Thailand, as well as seafood. Open throughout the night.
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address: MtwapaSeafood and fish. Also organizes trips to Zanzibar on board a dhow.
Splurge
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phone: +254 41 4471747, +254 733 623583address: Cement Silo Road, KongoweaIt's the most popular amongst tourists on the island. It over looks Old Harbour and offers freshly caught seafood, exotic menus and nightlife entertainment. Table reservation obligatory.
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phone: +254 41 4471747, +254 722 205160address: Jetty Tamarind Mombasa, KongoweaDine while cruising along Tudor Creek, embarkment at the Tamarind Mombasa Jetty. Seafood and fish, wide choice of cocktails. Table reservation obligatory.
Drink
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phone: +254 726 409436address: Ndia Kuu RdArabic teas and coffees served hot or cold, fresh fruit juices, snacks.
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phone: +254 722 867774address: Mnazi Moja RdOne of the largest clubs in Mombasa, open around the clock. It features two dance floors, four bars and a restaurant. Reservation obligatory.
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phone: +254 733 628986address: Malindi Road, Bamburi beachOpen air bar and disco with cheap beer. Fairly popular for watching sports events on their wide-screen TV.
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phone: +254 41 5487119address: Jomo Kenyatta Public Beach, BamburiBar and dancing on the beach.
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phone: +254 41 4474600address: Cement Silo Road, KongoweaCocktail and sushi specialties, terrace with view of old Mombasa.
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phone: +254 41 4471071address: Mama Ngina DrNight club, bar and casino. Famous for their chicken wings, they advertise 50 years of experience in the entertainment business.
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Bob's Bar
address: Malindi Road, NyaliLively and popular bar near Tembo. This bar and grill is where a lot of great nights out get started. One of the few bars that is open until sunrise! 3 bars, one of them has a terrace. Disco. Serves food. -
phone: +254 707 717770address: City Mall (Nyali mall) RooftopBest up to date music, upscale ambiance, price level higher than average.
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phone: +254-721-437448address: Next to Jomo Kenyatta Public Beach Bamburi, Mombasa-Malindi RoadDance club directly at the sea front with a very good atmosphere and super sexy dance contests.
Sleep
- Budget - under Ksh 2000.
- Mid-range Ksh 2000-5000.
- Splurge Ksh 5000+
There is a wide range of accommodation on offer in Mombasa from camping to Backpacker hostels to hotels and villas with all comforts.
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Budget
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C D H Backpackers
phone: +254 722 364148address: Moi avenue off Chembe roadFree wifi. A dorm in mombasa city centre. -
Mombasa Backpackers
phone: +254 701 561233address: Mwamba Drive, NyaliSingles, doubles triples, and 3 dorms with 6, 8 and 10 beds, also a campsite. Amenities include kitchen facilities and swimming pool. They arrange kite surfing, scuba diving safaris, and bike rental. Hostel is in a poor location. The side street leading to hostel is not guarded and several backpackers have been robbed at knife point. Always take a tuk tuk after sunset. -
Tulia House Backpackers
phone: +254 711 955999address: Off Links Road, Nyalidouble rooms and dorms for 4 to 10 persons. Free Wi-Fi. Campsite, swimming pool. -
The Beach Africa Backpackers
phone: +254-720-852327address: Maweni Beach MtwapaDorm bed. -
New Peoples Hotel
phone: +254 721 368807address: Abdel Nasser RdSingle or double rooms. -
phone: +254-0-700-713666address: Diani beachCamping with own tent. Dorm bed. Free Wi-Fi. Swimming pool.
- Akogo House Backpackers . Beach Road next to Oswal academy Nyali. +254 718 909559. Double Rooms from Ksh 1300. Free Wi-Fi. Garden. On site coffee shop. Shared kitchen.
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Diani Hostel
phone: +254-720-707777address: Diani Beach roadFree wifi. Swimming pool. Free bicycle rental. On-site restaurant. -
Evening Guest House
phone: +254 41 221380address: Mnazi Moja Roadclean fan Single room with outside bathroom. Free breakfast. WiFi in reception. Free soap. Can put your own padlock on room door. -
Marigold Guest House
phone: +254-706-590090address: 00254 Jomo Kenyatta Avenue.Fan single/double room with own bathroom, free Wi-Fi. -
Marathon Hotel
address: Koinage Road & Keino StreetFan double room with own bathroom, TV, free breakfast.
Mid-range
In Mvita
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address: Mwembe Tayari Rd110 rooms and suites, catering providing food from various traditions and cultures, health club and gym.
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phone: +254 41 2313207address: Cathedral LnSingles, doubles and triples, all with bathroom and A/C. Simple but high quality restaurant. Calm hotel with colonial ambiance.
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phone: +254 715 442017address: Nkrumah RdSingles, doubles and triples, all with bathroom, tv and A/C and a terrace towards the inner courtyard. Wi-Fi. The coffee shop and reception are open 24 hr.
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address: Haile Selassie RdSingles, doubles and triples equipped with kitchen. Conference room.
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phone: +254 41 2490553, +254 734 786001address: Jomo Kenyatta AveSingles, doubles and triples, all with bathroom, cable TV and A/C. Half board and full board. Conference room and a la carte restaurant.
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phone: +254 722 641977, +254 704 631593address: Tom Mboya Rd18 rooms, rates including breakfast and Wi-Fi. Secure parking, marina for private boats.
In Changamwe
Being chiefly an industrial area, Changamwe has little accommodation to offer, there are just two hotels.-
phone: +254 717 357327address: Off Barrack Obama Road, ChaaniSingles, doubles, triples. Rates include breakfast. Conference room, bar and restaurant.
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phone: +254 729 170500address: Off Mombasa Road, Miritini34 singles or doubles, all with balcony. Wi-Fi. Restaurant on the roof. Conference room. Room rates include breakfast but they also offer half board and full board.
In Kisauni
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The hotels bordering the beaches of Nyali, Bambur and Shanzu are all equipped for arranging wedding ceremonies including religious weddings on the beach. These beach hotels are also famous for arranging Mombasa's New Year's fireworks.
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phone: +254 41 5485121
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phone: +254 41 5485701
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phone: +254 738 666600address: Nyali Bridge Road, Kongowea100 rooms with balcony (view towards Tudor Creek or the garden). Wi-Fi in the bar. Conference room. Pool.
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phone: +254 705 185849address: Barracks Street, NyaliMarkets itself as a quieter alternative to a hotel. Rooms have Wi-Fi and tv, and rates include breakfast. They have a pool and are located next to a golf club. Restaurant with Swahili and Chinese specialties.
Royal Reserve Safari and Beach ClubOffers accommodations for all, including RCI timeshare members. The resort is right off the coast with enjoyable nightlife, multiple restaurant selection with diverse cuisines, gym, pools, and friendly staff.
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phone: +254 41 32621All inclusive resort providing accommodations for 298 guest rooms, health club, pool, nightlife, and various activities. Rooms are equipped with A/C, bath, safe, fridge, satellite TV, and some have a private balcony with sea view. This resort is also children friendly.
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Nyali International Beach Hotel & Spa
phone: +254 41 4471551, +254 727 228344address: Moyne Drive, NyaliVacation village with 173 rooms with a small safe, rooms are equipped with coffee or tea maker, satellite TV, safe, mini-bar, "Internet connectivity" and hairdryer. 5 restaurants and 4 bars. Several pools, tennis. -
phone: +254 722 205894address: Mount Kenya Road, NyaliAll-inclusive vacation village with three pools, tennis court, beach volley field, four bars and three restaurants. Rooms have A/C and satellite TV. They also arrange water activities such as windsurfing, diving and sailing.
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phone: +254 41 4472822address: Mount Kenya Road, NyaliPool, tennis, beach volleyball, free Internet cafe, restaurant.
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phone: +254 41 471771address: Mount Kenya Road, Nyali150 singles and doubles, all with balcony, A/C, safe, TV and bathroom. 3 restaurants, 4 bars, tennis, gym and 3 pools. Located in a tropical garden. Wi-Fi is not included in the price.
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Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort
phone: +254 41 2128000address: Malindi Road, Bamburi335 rooms of which 8 suites and 3 rooms for physically handicapped persons. This resort advertising itself as "East Africa's finest" has three restaurants, three bars, four pools, a wellness and fitness club and arranges different water activities such as diving, snorkelling and water skiing. Rooms have Wi-Fi, A/C, bath, satellite TV, a tea and coffee maker and a hair dryer, some rooms also have a balcony with sea view. -
phone: +254 41 2111000address: Malindi RdPool, sauna, tennis, gym, wellness center
In Likoni
Even as Shelly Beach is as beautiful as the ones in Kisauni, many of the beaches in Likoni, e.g. Tijara Beach, are private and can be rented (refer to the section apartments and villas). Just two hotels can be classified as three star hotels.-
phone: +254 722 598 983address: Shelly Beach Road, 80110 LikoniSingle and double rooms with satellite TV, A/C, safe and kitchen. Pool.
Splurge
In Mvita
-
phone: +254 722 207361address: Moi Ave68 singles, doubles, triples. Conference room, casino and restaurant in the hotel.
In Kisauni
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phone: +254 41 020870331, +254 786 456777address: Cement Road, Mkomani23 rooms and 3 suites with view to the old town. Rooms are comparable to apartments with complete kitchens, design furniture and media outlets in all rooms. They have a spa, gym, several pools and a marina.
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phone: +254 732 361050address: Off Serena Road, Shanzu50 single, double or triple suites with their own equipped kitchen. The rooms are equipped like apartments with everything from entertainment systems to kitchen equipment and cutlery, some also have a private jacuzzi. Two bars, a restaurant, a pool and a private beach.
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phone: +254 729 403649address: Malindi Road, BamburiSingles, doubles and triples. Alcohol prohibited. Pool and beach volley.
Apartments and villas
If you prefer something calmer than hotels, there are also apartments and villas to rent.In Kisauni
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phone: +254 41 4474600, +254 733 623583address: Link Road, KongoweaApartments of one, two or three rooms with satellite tyv and open veranda with view of the old town. Two pools and a whirlpool.
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phone: +254 41 2008482, +254 713 984660address: 1st Avenue, NyaliA studio for two persons and four apartments for two to six persons. Wi-Fi and pool. Moreover there are two houses available for short term rental: a larger one for a maximum of 8 adults and 3 children and a smaller for 4 adults and 2 children.
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phone: +254 780 061 001, +254 729 061 000address: Bamburi BeachStudios and apartments of 1-3 rooms, pool and fitness center. On the beach.
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phone: +254 20 2129560address: Off Serena RdApartments with two or three beds and a duplex with three or four beds. Two pools. On the beach.
In Likoni
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phone: +254 722 701701address: Tijara Road, LikoniFour fully equipped cottages at a 24-ha property with pool and private beach.
Connect
- in Changamwe: international airport, Changamwe-Magongo and Kipevu
- in Kisauni: Bamburi, Kengeleni, Kisauni-Mtopanga, Mkomani and Nyali
- in Likoni: Likoni-Ferry and Mtongwe
- in Mvita: Docks (in the port of Kilindini), Kilindini, Makupa, Mwembe
In Mvita there's also the central post office that's open throughout the day and on Saturday:
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phone: +254 41 2224299address: Digo Road, 80100
Phone and Internet
All the Internet cafés in Mombasa have phone booths but the fees for calling abroad are very high.Wi-Fi is widespread in the city and many hotels and restaurants offer guests free access.
Cope
Banks
Except for the central bank, banks are open M-F 9AM-3PM and 9AM-11AM on the first and last Saturday of the month. Currency can be exchanged in all banks. You can get money from ATMs using Visa and Mastercard credit cards. If you have a Maestro debit card you can use it at the ATMs too provided you have notified your bank of your trip to Kenya.- All Barclays' and Standard Chartered Banks' ATMs have a Ksh 400 fee for overseas cards.
Veterinary clinics
If you travel with a pet, there is one veterinary clinic in Mvita and two in Kisauni.-
Petwell Veterinary Clinic
phone: +254 41 2228039, +254 734 791997address: Mbuyuni Rd -
phone: +254 732209256address: Neem Avenue, Nyali
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Isapet Veterinary Clinic
phone: +254 738 139453address: Mahesh Doshi Road, Nyali
Houses of worship
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The most important Christian churches are:
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phone: +254 41 2318443, +254 735 112288address: Nyerere RdCatholic cathedral with masses in English and Swahili.
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phone: +254 41 2230502address: Nkrumah RdAnglican cathedral.
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JCC Glass Cathedral
address: JCC Road, BamburiA temple of the Evangelical Church Jesus Celebration Center. With 30,000 seats it is the largest Evangelical church building in East Africa. -
MCK Westey Church
address: Koinage RdThe largest Methodist church in Kenya. -
Mombasa Pentecostal Church
address: Jomo Kenyatta AveThe largest Pentecostal church in Kenya.
Consulates
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phone: +254 41 4474236, +254 736 394298address: DEMP House, Ras Kisauni Rd
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phone: +254 41 2229241address: Mikanjuni Rd
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phone: +254 41 2228781address: Ivory House, Dedan Kimathi Ave
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Greece
phone: +254 11 228286address: P.O. Box 90194 -
phone: +254 41 2312626address: MSC Plaza, Kililindi Rd, off Moi Ave
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phone: +254 727 727 695452address: c/o Orion Hotels Limited, 80101 Bamburi
Stay healthy
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Consult the safety guidelines for Kenya for general safety suggestions.
The area of Mombasa has about 60 healthcare establishments from hospitals to small clinics. Some of them also have a center for control and prevention of diseases in cooperation with the U.S. governmental agency Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. See also Department of Health - Mombasa County.
In Mvita
Mombasa's major hospitals including Kenya's second largest public hospital, Coast Grand Hospital, are situated in Mvita. In addition to the maternity section "Lady Grigg", this hospital also specializes in otolaryngology, ophthalmology and odontology. It has modern equipment and a laboratory and pharmacy that are open 24 hours. The public hospitals in Port Reitz and Likoni are smaller sub units of the Coast General Hospital.-
Coast General Hospital and Lady Grigg Maternity
phone: +254 41 2314204, +254 722 207868address: Kisauni Road (Coast General Hospital) and Abdel Nasser Road (Lady Grigg Maternity)Public hospital with 672 beds. -
Mombasa Hospital
phone: +254 41 2312191, +254 722 203755address: Hospital RdPrivate hospital with 124 beds. -
Pandya Memorial Hospital
phone: +254 41 2313577, +254 722 206424address: Dedan Kimathi RdPrivate hospital with 100 beds. -
phone: +254 41 2227710, +254 733 641020address: Vanga RdUniversity hospital with 82 beds.
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Alternative Pharmacy
phone: +254 721 169922address: Old Malindi Road, Kisauni -
phone: +254 20 340262, +254 733 930000address: Wajir Road, 80100Ambulances.
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phone: +254 41 2224161, +254 725 292000address: Aga Khan Road, 80100
In Changamwe
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Port Reitz District Hospital
phone: +254 720 419492address: Port Reitz Road, Port ReitzPublic hospital with 166 beds.
In Kisauni
-
Salama Medical Clinic
address: Old Malindi Road, KisauniPrivate clinic. -
Sayyidah Fatima Municipal Hospital
address: Old Malindi Road, KisauniPrivate clinic. -
Bombolulu Pharmacy
phone: +254 731 602229address: Old Malindi Road, Kisauni
In Likoni
-
Likoni District Hospital
phone: +254 738 387603address: Likoni-Ukunda RdPublic hospital with 14 beds.
Medical flights
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Flying Doctors' Society of Africa
phone: +254 727 337337 (emergencies)In case of insurmountable medical emergencies, and if you have subscribed to the service, the Flying Doctors' Society of Africa can transfer you by plane or ambulance to a suitable hospital in Nairobi.
Opticians
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phone: +254 41 2223813, +254 733 242908address: Moi Ave
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Inter Optica
phone: +254 41 2220714address: Digo Rd -
Noor Opticians
phone: +254 41 2311121address: Malindi Road, Nyali
Stay safe
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Several countries have issued warnings that the city centre is not safe during the night, that car-jacking is widespread and that robberies after sunset at the beaches can occur. Use common sense and a healthy dose of scepticism for your surroundings.
If you want to go out at night in pubs or restaurants always take a taxi, not on foot or motorbike taxi or tuktuk.
As elsewhere in Africa it's badly regarded — if not outright prohibited — to take photos or film airports, banks, military areas, police stations, troops or police officers without authorization. In general you should ask people if you may take photos of them. When walking, watch out for pickpockets and don't show off expensive electronics. When driving, keep the car doors locked both in daytime and nighttime.
The police is present on public places, especially in areas frequented by tourists like Mvita and the beaches. Public areas like the airport, post offices, banks, and malls. are guarded by security guards. Similarly, upper-class homes and apartment buildings are also guarded around the clock.
Following the intervention by the Kenyan military in Somalia, the terrorist organization Al Shabaab has committed several attacks in the country, some of them in Mombasa. In July 2014, two female tourists were murdered in separate incidents. A Russian tourist was killed in a hit and run attack in front of the the Shia Sheri Mosque in the Old Town. Another female tourist was shot and killed in the Kibokoni area. The identity of the attackers are not known.
If you are sitting at an outside terrace, do not sit next to the road. You should also avoid riding matatus, immediately leave areas with ongoing demonstrations of any kind, and never visit the slums without a guide. Before exploring the city on your own, you should ask the hotel staff which areas are safe.
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phone: +254 41 225501, +254 41 222121address: Mama Ngina Dr
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Central police station
phone: +254 41 225501address: Makadara Rd - Local police stations :
-
Bamburi
phone: +254 41 548210 -
Changamwe
phone: +254 41 433700 -
Likoni
phone: +254 41 451222 -
Makupa
phone: +254 41 491605 -
Nyali
phone: +254 41 477555
Municipal fire brigade
The port fire brigade
Committee for disaster management
Go next
Nearby
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- are inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, and located about 30km north of Mombasa.
- There are two elephant sanctuaries near Mombasa: and .
- Diani Beach - the number one beach in Kenya with a lot of beach resorts and with a primate conservation center, about 35 km south of Mombasa. 70 km south is the Msambweni Beach, a touristically untouched part of the coast.
Rabai MuseumHosted in the first church built in Kenya, this museum shows the activities of the 19th-century Christian missionaries in the country, in particular Johann Krapf who translated the Bible to Swahili. It is one of the National Museums of Kenya.
Jumba Ruins at MtwapaRuins of a 14th-century village, of which there are no written records. As some of the ruins have functioned as mosques and remains of Chinese porcelain has been found, archeologists believe it has been a trading outpost mainly inhabited by Muslims. The Monsoon restaurant at the beach of Jumba Ruins is definitively worth a visit and a good place to rest after the walk in the ruins.
Further away
- Voi 153 km (2 hr by car) - Tsavo East National Park. From Voi it's a little over 100 km to Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, located in Tanzania.
- Malindi 116 km (2 hr by car) - beach activities, the Vasco da Gama pillar where the Portuguese explorer landed
- Lamu 336 km (5 hr by car) - colonial beach town inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list
- Nairobi 525 km (7 hr by car, 5 hr by train, 45 min by plane) - Kenya's capital has museums and gardens to visit.
- Tanga Tanzania 173 km by bus, 4 hours. (Modern coast buses)
- Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 515 km (12 hr by bus, 35 min plane) - the former Tanzanian capital offers museums, beaches and markets