What to Do in Mombasa Besides the Beach

Whenever the majority of the travellers refer to Mombasa, they picture palm trees, white sand, and turquoise waters. This coastline alone is certainly beautiful, but the place is far more than that pretty beach and you need not go far out of the beach to know it.

Most of the ancient architecture and Swahili culture, wildlife reserves, delicious food and vibrant nightlife are some of the many things that a traveler can do at this seaside resort besides sun-tanning. In case you are interested in history, culture, nature, and local life in general, there is actually much to be explored inland.

Why Mombasa Is More Than a Beach City

The most outstanding fact about this historic coastal center is that it was a key trading center between Africa, Arabia and Asia. The melting pot had its culture, food, language and architecture. The Swahili customs are placed alongside the Portuguese and the Arab heritage, which makes it a destination that appears to have multiple layers and real-life instead of resort-driven.

In addition to relaxation, the city attracts tourists who are fond of storytelling with the use of old streets, valuable cultural experiences, and experiences of nature, which do not involve going long distances.

History & Culture Highlights

It is one of the most rewarding non-beach things to do in the country because of visiting the Fort Jesus that was constructed in Fort Jesus, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created in the late 16th century. The fort itself is the symbol of the colonial wars and tradeways that give the exhibits of the museum and are able to see the ocean.

The coral stone buildings, wooden carved doors and balconies with bougainvillea may be enjoyed in the small alleys of Old Town. Other museums like the Swahili Cultural Centre also enlighten us on the traditions that continue to define the region.

Nature & Wildlife Around the City

Wildlife encounters do not require a long distance. The former limestone quarry, Haller Park has been turned into a green wildlife sanctuary which houses giraffes, zebras, hippos, and birds. It is perfect to the traveler who prefers nature to a full safari program.

The nearby marine national park offers snorkeling and exploration of the reefs to marine lovers who may also have additional time to arrange short safaris to the local reserves. It is possible to also visit elephants, lions, and other recognizable species.

Best Things to Do 

• Explore Old Town and allow yourself to lose track in its cobblestone streets, all of which have a tale to tell about the past.
• Visit Fort Jesus as to get knowledge of the history of the city and also have a view of the beautiful ocean on its walls.
• Haller Park is a quiet green park where you can observe wildlife within the city.
• Savor local food in small restaurants or street vendors and taste the rich Swahili culture which characterises the life of the coast.
• Stroll along the coastline in the evening or be idle in a cafe and watch the city reduce to a crawl as the sun goes down.

Top Attractions in the City

The city center is indicated by the iconic elephant tusks along the Moi Avenue and is a common place for photo stop. Mama Ngina Waterfront is a picturesque location to hangout and have the view of the sea and ferries moving in and out. Sightseeing is easily accessible without having to travel long distances on cultural landmarks, public gardens and historic streets.

Best Beaches 

Nyali Beach: Ideal place where one can get a quick vacation and calm waters that allow you to swim, take short walks, and dine at the place.

Bamburi Beach: It is energetic, but welcoming and allows the opportunity to see the sunset, water sports, and cafes all over.

Diani Beach: The place attracts day trip due to its soft white sand, blue water and serene environment that makes it look as though you are not in the urban setup.

Family Fun & Relaxation

• Families will enjoy the low-speed and diversification of attractions. 
• Cinema, amusement, and restaurant places provided in shopping malls provide rest between sightseeing. 
• Several resorts have kid-friendly attractions, pools and cultural performances and it is not difficult to strike balance between exploration and relaxation.
• An easy walk at the parks along the coast or the shoreline is another low-cost method of relaxing and still taking in the local view.

Food & Dining Experiences

One of the best reasons to look outside of the hotel food scene is the local food scene. 

Swahili food is a mix of coconuts, spices, seafood and rice that makes it very satisfying and tasty. Biryani, pilau, fried fish and fried snacks such as samosas and cassava fries are all famous dishes.

A local chef in one of the concealed restaurants of the neighborhood told me how recipes have been inherited in generations in Mombasa and how each meal is made an individual one and not commercial. 

Where to Stay

The accommodation options are affordable. The beachfront resorts have a view and luxury and the hotels in the old parts of the country are in the form of boutiques and offer charm and cultural integration. Guesthouses and smaller hotels that are clean, friendly, and centrally located will be available to the budget travelers as well.

The location of the accommodation is based on your choice of having easier access to the place or access to cultural sites and urban living.

At Night: What to Explore

Evenings are a different activity. Night markets, non-fancy cafes, and rooftop bars get socialized. It is particularly invigorating in Old Town when it is dark, when the streets are less crowded, and buildings and streets are lit with warm lights.

Evenings are also enjoyable as beachside restaurants and bars have live music and easy-going nightlife without a huge crowd of people, and thus are pleasurable to all age groups.

The Perfect Bush & Beach Safari itinerary (perfect for all age groups) 

Day 1- Land at Entebbe & overnight in Kampala

Day 2 – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park 

Day 3 – Gorilla trekking (1 hr with the Gorillas) or Gorilla Habituation (4hrs with the Gorillas.)

Day 4 – Road/ Air transfer back to Entebbe and proceed for flight out to Nairobi.

Day 5 – Road/ Air transfer to Masai Mara. Afternoon game drive with Sundowner.

Day 6 – Game drive or Balloon Safari with Bush breakfast. Afternoon game drive

Day 7 – AM & PM  Game drive. Intimate Masai dinner Experience.

Day  8 – Morning at ease and return to Nairobi.

Day 9 – Train transfer to Mombasa. Overnight Shanzu Beach. 

Day 10 – Visit Fort Jesus & Mombasa Town. Overnight Shanzu Beach 

Day 11 – Transfer to Diani Beach. 

Day 12 – Full day Diani Beach 

Day 13 – Transfer back to the Airport for the departure flight back home.

Local Tips to Know

• Locals advise people to watch attractions in the morning when the weather is not hot and there are not many people. 
• Simple fashion is valued in cultural districts, in particular, in Old Town. 
• Tuk-tuk and local taxis are cheap and convenient and it is best to settle on prices in advance to prevent miscommunication.
• The interaction with residents, even in the form of mini conversations, is usually accompanied by unanticipated tips and experience that is unforgettable.

Conclusion

It is not difficult to get to know why Mombasa is a good place to go when one goes outside the coastline. Its mixture of historical, wildlife and food with the common culture makes it a unique experience that can not be forgotten. Once traveling people leave the sand and plunge into the city, they have stories, flavors and moments that echo with them long after they have actually been there.

At Activentures Africa Safaris, we are aware of the fact that the end destination of journeys is the ocean. This is why our Kenya Tours and Safaris frequently combine legendary game drives with memorable beach time, designed with a purpose and balance.