Mombasa walking tour & city guide

Old Town

Fort Jesus, built by the Portuguese in 1593, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Old Town's narrow streets have carved wooden doors, balconies and spice shops. The aluminum Mombasa Tusks arch over Moi Avenue.

The coast

Nyali and Bamburi beaches lie north of the city, and the Haller Park nature reserve was created from an old quarry.

A day in Mombasa

Visit Fort Jesus, a Portuguese fort from the 16th century and a UNESCO site, then wander the narrow streets of the Old Town, with carved wooden doors, balconies and mosques. Stop for spiced coffee from a street vendor.

In the afternoon, head to the beaches north of the city, like Nyali or Bamburi, or take a dhow cruise at sunset.

Good to know

Mombasa is Kenya's second city and its main port, with a strong Swahili culture. The Madaraka Express train connects it with Nairobi in about five hours.

Try Swahili dishes like biryani, pilau and samosas.