Travel Guides: All Countries / Africa / Kenya / Mombasa
 |  | Destination Guide : Mombasa |
|
| | | Take it easy |  | Why go?
This former trading port on Kenya's east coast offers superb sandy beaches and aquamarine waters, making it an ideal place to flop out either on a week or two-week holiday or as an add-on to a safari break. Good quality hotels with water sport facilities means it's suitable for families and couples, while the city's rich history will satisfy culture vultures.
How much does it cost?
A week's half-board stay in a three-star hotel will probably cost around £700. Flights to Mombasa are around £500 but shop around. Prices vary according to where you stay and when you go.
When should I go?
The heat is bearable between June and September and in January and February. The rain hits from March to May.
|
|
|
|
| | | See the old town | | Where do I start?
Mombasa is one of the oldest settlements in East Africa and has a rich, colourful history. Wander around the old town in the early morning or late afternoon when it buzzes with activity. You'll stumble across mosques and markets and buildings featuring a delightful blend of Swahili, British and Indian styles. Look out particularly for the intricately carved wooden doors, dating back centuries. Dominating the harbour is Fort Jesus, which originally dates from the 16th century and features gun turrets and battlements. It's worth spending a day here and it's open to visitors between 8.30am and 4pm.
Anything else to see?
At the harbour, watch the traditional dhow sailing boats bobbing offshore. Luxury and sunset cruises are also available, which normally include dinner and some kind of entertainment. If you want to sample a safari trip, you can book an overnight tour to nearby Tsavo East National Park, home to elephants, black rhino and antelopes or Shimba Hills National Park, home to elephants. The beauty of these safari options is that you'll escape the tourist hordes which flock to the Masai Mara National Park.
What about the beach life?
Mombasa beaches stretch for 40km. Tiwi and Diani to the south are exquisite strips of soft white sand flanked by lofty palm trees and emerald seas. Another pleasure is lunching on freshly cut tropical fruit such as mango, guava, papaya, pineapples and oranges. If you want some action, there's sailing, deep-sea fishing, snorkelling and diving. These and other water sports can be arranged by your hotel.
What's to do at night?
Most entertainment is provided by the hotels, although Mombasa does have bars and discos. There's also a casino, with pool and gaming tables.
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Children and shopping | | Will children like it?
Children are well catered for in the hotels and will love the beaches and wildlife viewing.
What's the food like?
Venture out to local restaurants and sample typical Swahili dishes and curries which are packed with spices and coconut and represent a mix of African and Arabic cuisine. Seafood such as lobsters, crabs, oysters and fish are excellent, as are the natural fruit juices. The national dish is nyama choma (barbecued goat meat) washed down with Tusker beer.
What should I buy?
Craft stalls sell everything from wooden carvings and paintings to sisal baskets, colourful cotton sarongs, beaded jewellery and batik. Bargaining is acceptable.
More information
Kenya Tourist Board, 36 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9EU. Tel: 020 7202 6373.
|
|
|
|
| | Fact File : Mombasa |
|
| | | Mombasa | | Did you know?
The Swahili expression "hakuna matata" means "no problem".
Language
English and Swahili, plus many tribal languages.
Visas
All UK citizens require a visa which is valid for three months.
Getting there
Direct flights serve Mombasa from the UK.
Flying time from London
Eight hours.
Getting around
Matatus or brightly-coloured minibuses — often with loud stereo systems and crammed with passengers — provide cheap, frequent transport up and down the coast from Mombasa.
Currency
Kenyan shilling.
Costs
Bottle of beer is around £1, a meal between £3-£5 and a roll of camera film £3-£4. Prices fluctuate but may be higher in tourist centres like Mombasa.
Weather
Cool ocean breezes make the humid coast easier to bear. Temperatures range between 21C/70F and 30C/86F. Rainfall is heaviest between April and May.
Time difference
Three hours ahead of GMT.
International dialling code from the UK
00 254.
Voltage
240V. A universal adapter is useful.
Opening hours
Banks are open 9am-2pm, Monday-Friday and there's also a Barclays Bank which stays open daily (except on Sundays) until 5pm.
Health – before you go
Vaccinations are not compulsory but hepatitis A, polio and typhoid are recommended. Anti-malarial protection is necessary. Seek advice from your GP and make sure you buy adequate health insurance.
Health – when you are there
Be careful of what you eat and drink. Avoid tap water, drinks that include ice and salads. Stick to bottled water and fruit which you have to peel. Take proper measures to protect yourself from the sun and heatstroke.
Warnings
Avoid walking around after dark. Don't carry or wear valuables and lots of cash in public places. Only travel with reputable operators if you're booking local excursions on your own.
Emergency
Police – 99.
Customs
Wear modest clothing in Muslim areas.
Pets
Quarantine rules apply.
Tipping
It's 5-10% in tourist restaurants. Tips for safari guides are also expected.
Tourist Office
Kenya Tourist Board, 36 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9EU. Tel: 020 7202 6373.
|
|
|
|
|
| | Available rental properties in Mombasa |
|
| |  | | Villa Barizi
Villa Barizi is privately owned, it’s situated in picturesque South Coast Diani Beach area of Mombasa. It is a fully self-contained, 3 bedroom villa
|  | | Bougain Villa
Luxurious African style villa at the shore of the Indian ocean with big garden and swimmingpool for very relaxing and enjoyable holiday
|  | | Villa Peppercon
African style villa 10 minutes walk from the Indian Ocean with big tropical garden and swimmingpool for very relaxing and enjoyable holiday
|  | | Cottage Lamu
African style villa 10 minutes walk from the Indian Ocean with big tropical garden and swimmingpool for very relaxing and enjoyable holiday
|  | | Cottage Old Mombasa
African style villa 10 minutes walk from the Indian Ocean with big tropical garden and swimmingpool for very relaxing and enjoyable holiday
|
Holiday Rentals in Mombasa |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Why Rent With Us
