10 Things to do in Mombasa
Mombasa is a bustling port city in the coastal region of Kenya. It is an Island, a fact that most people realize in awe. It is the second-largest city in Kenya, second only to the capital Nairobi and is characterized by a rich history and heritage.
It is surrounded by sun-splashed shores, ports, sand, and sizzling beaches. It is also surrounded by other tourist attraction destinations like Kilifi, Lamu, Watamu, etc, but within the city itself, awaits a world of culture, heritage, and splendor for the wanderer at heart to explore. Wondering what to do while here? Below are 10 things to do in Mombasa.
Explore the Culture
Being home to the largest port in East Africa, it remains a cultural melting pot as people from different cultures divulged here to use the port. The British, Asian, Arabian, Indian, and Chinese immigrants made Mombasa a cultural hub, thus enriching its architecture and cuisine. Mosques and temples grace the city streets, fragrant spices fill the air, and ancient buildings describe it. It is in essence an old town that attracts both local and foreign tourists.
Visit the Beach
Running out of time but still, want to savor the beach in Mombasa? Head down to any of the public beaches within the city and enjoy a walk on the sandy beaches. The best suburban beach within Mombasa is Nyali, just close to the CBD. You can lounge on the sand, go windsurfing, guided camel rides. Don’t forget to take a photo or two for memories sake. There are professional photographers at the beach in case you didn’t carry your camera.
Visit Mombasa Marine Park
Endowed with excellent coral reefs, Mombasa Marine Park is dubbed the allure of natural beauty because of the warm ocean and swinging palm trees on the white sandy beaches. It is one of the most visited national parks in Mombasa town and is home to different marine life like sea urchins, starfish, sharks, dolphins, butterflyfish, and many others. You can also enjoy snorkeling, diving, boat rides, fishing, and bird watching at the park.
Explore the Outskirts of the Old Town
Another option of enjoying what Mombasa has to offer is to take a ride to the outskirts and explore its warmth. A case in point is the Shimba Hills National Reserve, which boasts of the largest coastal forests in East Africa. It is rich in flora and fauna and plays host to the largest African elephants in Kenya. It has campsites, perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, and trail treaders.
Experience the Fort Jesus Museum
Endorsed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Centre, Fort Jesus Museum is a popular tourist attraction in the region and stands out as a monumental architecture. It showcases various artifacts from the time the old town served as a transit point for slave trade and goods. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th Century.
Savor the various Cuisines
Mombasa is an old town, and a melting pot of different cultures because of the different people who converged here, it is only normal to find different delicacies that make it unique for food lovers. Within Mombasa town are different restaurants and eateries with some of the best local and international cuisines to quench your love for food and desire to savor different cuisines.
Take a Trip to Haller Park
Are you a bird enthusiast and enjoy bird watching? Take a trip to Haller Park and explore the wildlife exhibition. It is home to exotic birdlife, cape buffaloes, waterbucks, and hippos. It was named after Dr. Rene Haller who transformed the abandoned quarry into a thriving nature reserve. A day’s trip to this park is rewarding as it has diverse attractions to offer.
Create a Memory at the Large Elephant Tusks
A trip to Mombasa should never end without a photo next to the famous Elephant Tusks. They are located right in the city center along Moi Avenue and were erected to commemorate Queen Elizabeth’s visit in 1952. The tusks mark the entrance to the heart of the coastal city. They resemble elephant tusks and are locally known as pembe za ndovu, Swahili for elephant ivory. If someone ever doubts you were in Mombasa, show them the photo you took here.
A trip to Mamba Village Centre
Ever heard of East Africa’s largest crocodile farm? They are right in the heart of Mombasa City, and while visiting, you can take some time off, and visit the center to commune with these fascinating reptiles. If you don’t enjoy viewing the reptiles, you can go horseback riding at the same place or admire the beautiful botanic garden and the aquarium within. Also, savor the delicacies at the in-house restaurant that serves game meat.
Explore the Streets of the Old Town
Are you an explorer? The moment you get to Mombasa, you may be compelled to take a walk along the streets of the old town. You will realize it is filled with a rich history, from the architecture to the food, both of which reflect the main inhabitants of the region. Antique shops litter the streets where you can acquire a few souvenirs and when your sugar level goes down as it is bound to, you can walk into one of the many restaurants and enjoy the spicy food that is the town’s signature.
Mombasa is an exotic paradise in the African tropics and a popular tourist destination for both locals and foreigners. It guarantees amazing sites and delightful tales rich in history and heritage.
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