Mombasa, Kenya’s Coastal City : Mombasa, which was once the biggest port in East Africa, is now a cosmopolitan city, with a portion of its population living on an island surrounded by the Indian Ocean and white-sand beaches. The island is connected to the mainland by a causeway. Explore the Portuguese-designed Fort Jesus and travel to Wasini Island on a traditional dhow to discover Kenya’s distinctive fusion of cultures.
Mombasa overlooks the Indian Ocean, and as a result, the region has a number of beaches that entice tourists. One of the most well-known and adored is Nyali, which is connected to Mombasa Island by a sizable road bridge. In addition to areas where you can rent boats, learn to windsurf, or scuba dive over the vibrant coral reefs that lie just below the water’s surface, the white sand beach is surrounded by a variety of gleaming hotels and spas.
The drama of Mombasa’s history can be seen in the architecture of the city, which is influenced by a fusion of Swahili, Portuguese, Asian, and Arabic cultures. In the traditional sense of the word, this port is truly global. Mombasa has been ruled by waves of traders, tourists, and marauders over the years, and each has left their mark on the cuisine, culture, and atmosphere of this historic seaport city.
You can get lost in the vibrant bazaar here in the Old Town, which is filled with clothing, spices, and other items that make you think of a different era and location. Broad, spotless beaches, however, can be found close by, hugging the Indian Ocean’s crystal-clear waters. And in between, fascinating historical locations like the fabled Fort Jesus will captivate you with their tales of conquest and sway over the eastern trade routes.
SPICES AND OTHER GOODS
The assortment of stalls with their owners peddling the vibrant and savory scents of cardamom, turmeric, pepper, curry, and more is a distinguishing feature of Mombasa’s Old Town. The smells, haggling, bodies, and activity overload the senses both visually and aurally. In these bustling back-alley warrens, you can shop for souvenirs, carvings, fabrics, jewelry, and more while also sampling some of the local cuisine, which is influenced by the same strong spices.
CAMELS, DHOWS, AND MORE
Mombasa is a port city with a long history that still displays Arabian influences. If you see a camel strolling by, don’t be alarmed. Unwind on its comfortable beaches. To experience your own camel ride on the sands while admiring the port and the sea, climb aboard one of these kind animals. An Arabian dhow may be seen cruising the calm waters of the Indian Ocean. Join in the fun with a dinner cruise and romantic sunset sail on one of these real ships.
THE LIVING HISTORY OF FORT JESUS
The enormous citadel of Mombasa’s Fort Jesus has likely experienced more change and upheaval than any other fort in the entire world. Since the 17th century, the large fort with its imposing walls has seen no fewer than nine conquests because whoever held control of the fort also oversaw the trade routes to the east. As a result, throughout the centuries, fighting forces such as Portuguese, Muslim soldiers, Swahili warriors, and British colonialists appeared in waves. The fort reflects the architectural influences of the many different cultures that have passed through its walls; throughout the stronghold, you’ll find European cannon batteries mixed with Koranic inscriptions.
MOMBASA IS ALSO A MARINE PARK.
There is a stunning underwater world close to the city that perfectly complements its coastal location. A wide variety of tropical fish, sea urchins, crabs, starfish, octopuses, rays, turtles, and dolphins live in the great coral reef at Mombasa Marine National Park. You can also try waterskiing, jet skiing, sailing, and windsurfing to broaden your vacation horizons if you’re itching to do more than just snorkel and dive.
Mombasa’s vibrant nightlife of restaurants, bars, and clubs will keep you entertained after hours. It’s a global scene, both old and new. In addition, we have a variety of adventure offerings that can take you inside or outside the city. Let Focus East Africa Tours take you to this vibrant, rich city in Kenya.
