10 Fun Places To Visit In Mombasa For Your Memorable Vacation

After Nairobi, Mombasa is the second-largest city in Kenya. It provides visitors with a unique flavor of the African tropics steeped in centuries of seafaring history. This international tourist hotspot is actually an island that is connected to the Kenyan shore by bridges and ferries. Extending for vast distances along the northern and southern coastlines, the beach resorts of Mombasa overlook shores adorned with palm trees and bordered by glistening coral reefs.

Visitors from all over the world come here to enjoy the many exciting activities, including deep-sea fishing, diving, and snorkeling at wrecks and reefs, as well as relaxing on the sun-drenched beaches. On the busy island, however, there is a wealth of history and culture to explore.

As you plan your next getaway, consider these 8 fun places to visit in Mombasa that promise to turn your vacation into an extraordinary memory-making experience.

List Of Top 10 Tourist Attractions In Mombasa

Mombasa's attractions for tourists encompass its historic ancient district, vibrant nightlife venues, picturesque palm-fringed beaches, and impressive animal reserves. Travelers worldwide gather at this tropical hotspot to relish the unspoiled oceanic vistas, engage in traditional dhow excursions, connect with the lively underwater world, and wander through the verdant, untamed panoramas.

Without further ado, here is a list of top 10 tourist attractions in Mombasa.

1. Fort Jesus Museum

It is one of the most popular Mombasa tourist places which is situated in Mombasa City along Nkurumah Road on the Kenyan coast, the fortification stands as Mombasa's foremost magnet for visitors. With the original purpose of safeguarding the Portuguese settlers along East Africa's shoreline, the fort has admirably weathered the years, enduring assaults and adversities. Its role expanded to a temporary prison in its chronicles. Today, this imposing structure holds the status of a pivotal historical landmark and operates as a major museum.

Fort Jesus is now a museum where visitors can learn more about the tiny island and explore some of Mombasa's ancient structures, like Oman House, which served as the Sultan's home while he was in charge of the East African coast. Within Fort Jesus is a display of artifacts discovered during excavations at Manda, the Gede ruins, Ungwana, and Fort Jesus.

Fort Jesus Museum in Mombasa, Kenya, East Africa

2. Mombasa Marine National Park

One of the fun places to visit in Mombasa, Mombasa Marine National Park, is Kenya's busiest offshore reserve, guards mangroves, seagrass meadows, sandy beaches, and coral reef. Especially north of Mombasa, from Mtwapa Creek south to the entrance of Likoni, diving and snorkeling are popular activities.

The reserve is home to a variety of marine life, including seahorses, stingrays, and eels. The MV Dania is a well-known wreck dive in this area. You may observe the various marine species from a glass-bottom boat if you'd rather stay dry.

3. Haller Park 

Haller Park in Mombasa, formerly known as Bamburi Nature Trail, is a popular destination for animal lovers. The project was initiated in 1971 by Dr. René Haller, who successfully converted abandoned limestone quarries into a vibrant and flourishing nature reserve.

The park is home to a variety of animals such as giraffes, Cape buffalo, zebras, waterbucks, and hippos. Additionally, there is a rich bird population in the area, with over 160 different species having been brought to the region, including weaver birds, cranes, pelicans, and storks.

In addition to a reptile park, palm garden, butterfly pavilion, and crocodile pens, there are walking and cycling pathways that weave through casuarina groves.

Haller Park in Mombasa is a popular destination for animal lovers

4. Mombasa Tusks

Are you planning interesting places to visit in Mombasa? You cannot miss seeing this well-known landmark. The Mombasa Tusks were erected in honor of Queen Elizabeth's 1952 visit to Mombasa. Made from aluminum, these tusks serve as a symbolic gateway to the central part of the town, where the majority of banks, stores, and markets are located.

While they provide an excellent opportunity for an Instagram-worthy photo, capturing both sides of the tusks can be challenging due to the heavy traffic on this bustling road. Additionally, it's interesting to observe that the intersecting tusks create the letter "M" for Mombasa.

5. Bamburi Beach

On Bamburi Beach the sea is warm, calm, with gentle soothing waves and a cool whispering breeze

A beach with fine, smooth sand and tranquil waves, Bamburi Beach is remarkably serene. It is without a doubt among the best places to visit in Mombasa for a special family trip. The beach is a must-visit for anybody who enjoys walking, swimming, or lounging on the shore. It is the perfect location for sunbathers and sand searchers.

Everything a beach ought to have is there. The beach is renowned for having many restaurants, nightclubs, and contemporary hotels. Here, you can engage in water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling. Another well-liked pastime in this region is camel rides.

6. Old Town

Located in the center of Mombasa, Old Town is a historic neighborhood. The region is distinguished by its winding lanes, classic Swahili architecture, and bustling markets that sell anything from spices to locally created goods. By exploring the neighborhood's stores, eateries, and mosques, visitors can discover more about its diverse cultural past. Old Town is a place to visit in Mombasa on a budget.

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Located in the center of Mombasa, Old Town is a historic neighborhood

7. Mamba Village Centre

When it comes to affordable places to visit in Mombasa, one can't help but mention Mamba Village Centre in Nyali, East Africa's largest crocodile farm. Learn more about these interesting amphibians' behavior and life cycle right here. Baby crocodiles are popular among children, and many people also enjoy watching the crocodiles compete for juicy scraps during feeding time.

At Mamba Village Centre, you can enjoy horseback riding and explore a botanical garden featuring an aquarium. While the gardens are renowned for their orchids and aquatic plants, they also showcase various carnivorous plant species.

8. Tiwi Beach

Tiwi Beach, located in Mombasa, is renowned for its pristine white sands and its tranquil, secluded setting. It's an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Birdwatching is also a popular activity for tourists in the area, with the scenic view further enhanced by the presence of palm trees along the shoreline. The coral reefs, situated 50 meters from the beach, can be reached by boat. The weather is typically warm, and the optimal time to visit Tiwi Beach is during February when the heat is more moderate, and the water temperature is comfortable.

Access to Tiwi Beach can be achieved via taxi or public transportation from Diani Beach. Visitors have the option to rent an umbrella and a comfortable sling chair to soak in the surroundings, all while enjoying local delicacies available at the nearby cafe.

Tiwi Beach is renowned for its pristine white sands and its tranquil, secluded setting

9. Mombasa Memorial Cathedral

The Mombasa Memorial Cathedral, an Anglican Church in Mombasa, was established during the British colonial period. Its architecture resembles a mosque, with a white structure, arches, and a silver dome. Built of coral stone in 1905, it is a remarkable and historic landmark that is frequently visited beside Fort Jesus.

The Mombasa Memorial Cathedral is not just a place of prayer, but also a hub for community activity and education. Inside, you'll discover the Tiwi School for local youngsters as well as a Music School. The cathedral hosts insightful talks and exciting worship services, providing spiritual nourishment to attendees. They also organize family-friendly activities and games, which fosters a strong feeling of community. The Mombasa Memorial Cathedral is not just a place of prayer, but also a hub for community activity and education. Inside, you'll discover the Tiwi School for local youngsters as well as a Music School. The cathedral hosts insightful talks and exciting worship services, providing spiritual nourishment to attendees. They also organize family-friendly activities and games, which fosters a strong feeling of community.

Its architecture looks like a mosque, with a white building, arches, and a silver dome

10. Mombasa Jain Temple

The Mombasa Jain Temple, also known as Shree Parshwa Vallabh Jain Temple, is a religious temple located just beyond the southwestern bounds of Mombasa's Old Town. It is the earliest Jain temple built outside of Asia and the oldest in Africa. From ceiling to floor, the structure is decorated with beautiful sculptures and miniatures.

The temple, which serves as a pilgrimage center for Jain members from all over the world, is embellished with white marble buildings and silver doors. There is a pathshala where children may attend classes, and there are daily lectures based on Pujya Kanji Swami's talks. Visitors must remove their shoes outside the shrine and avoid bringing any leather items within.

This spectacular temple is adorned floor to ceiling with sculptures and figurines. Jainism holds all forms of life to be sacred

Best Time To Visit These Most Beautiful Places In Mombasa 

Mombasa can be visited year-round; however, June to August is the best time to go due to the favorable weather, low travel costs, and avoiding the busiest holiday times.

Mombasa can get summertime highs of 33°C (91°F). In the winter, the temperature at night can drop as low as 22°C (71°F).

You'll get the most out of your daytime activities if you go to Mombasa in November when the sun is up the longest. Mombasa experiences a wet season in May, so if you prefer drier conditions, consider traveling there in June.

As we conclude our exploration of the eight fun places to visit in Mombasa, Kenya, it's clear that this coastal city has something for everyone. From the breathtaking beaches to the rich historical sites, from the vibrant Old Town to the fascinating wildlife sanctuaries, Mombasa is a destination that promises a memorable vacation.

If you're inspired to visit Mombasa and experience all these incredible attractions, make sure to plan your trip well in advance. Travelers should also note that a Kenya eVisa is required for entry into the country. The electronic visa application process through Kenya Immigration Services is convenient and ensures a smooth entry into Kenya, allowing you to start your Mombasa adventure without any hassles.

So, as you prepare for your dream vacation in Mombasa, don't forget to apply for your Kenya ETA online, pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and history of this remarkable coastal gem. Your unforgettable Mombasa adventure awaits!