Fort Jesus Mombasa: History, Fees, Opening Hours and What to See
If you spend a week on Kenya’s coast and see only the beach, you miss the story of why the…
Destination guide
Mombasa and its beaches: the complete guide
Mombasa is Kenya's second-largest city and its oldest port, a place where Swahili, Arab, Portuguese and Indian histories meet. The old town and Fort Jesus tell stories that go back centuries, and the beaches to the north, such as Nyali, Bamburi and Shanzu, offer warm water and palm-lined sand within easy reach of the city.
Here is what to see in Mombasa, which beach to choose and when to go.
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Tours featuring Mombasa
01
Why visit Mombasa
Mombasa's history comes alive in Fort Jesus, a Portuguese fortress built in the 1590s, and in the old town, where Swahili houses and mosques line narrow streets. The city is lively, with markets, street food and the smell of spices.
North of the city, the coastal beaches are lined with resorts and offer calm lagoons, watersports and nightlife. South of the city, across the Likoni ferry, Diani Beach is quieter and wider.
02
What to do in Mombasa
Fort Jesus and Old Town
A guided walk through the fort, the old harbour and the Swahili streets.
Haller Park
A former quarry turned nature park with giraffe, hippo, crocodile and tortoises, including the famous hippo Owen and tortoise Mzee story.
Beaches
Swim, snorkel or relax at Nyali, Bamburi or Shanzu.
Spice and craft markets
Buy spices, kikoys and carvings at local markets.
Dhow cruises
Sail at sunset or with a seafood dinner along the coast.
03
Best time to visit
December to March
Great
Hot and mostly dry with calm sea.
July to October
Great
Cooler, breezy and clear.
April to June
Green/Wet
The long rains. Heavy showers and humidity.
November
Good
Short rains, warm sea.
04
How to get to Mombasa
By air
About one hour from Nairobi to Moi International Airport.
By train
The Madaraka Express runs between Nairobi and Mombasa in around five hours.
By road
The highway between Nairobi and Mombasa takes around eight hours.
05
Combining Mombasa with a safari
Mombasa is a natural finish to a safari in Tsavo East, Tsavo West or Amboseli. For quieter sand, see Diani Beach and Watamu.
06
Frequently asked questions
Is Mombasa safe for tourists?
Yes, with normal precautions. Stay in established areas and use licensed guides and taxis.
Which beach is best near Mombasa?
Nyali and Bamburi are closest to town. Diani and Watamu are further away but quieter.
How long should I stay?
Three to five nights is ideal for a beach break after safari.
Read before you go
Things to Do in Mombasa: Old Town, Fort Jesus and the Coast
Fort Jesus, Old Town and beaches. Here are the best things to do in Mombasa.
How to Take the Nairobi to Mombasa SGR Train After Your Safari (2026 Guide)
The classic Kenyan holiday has two parts: the "Bush" and the "Beach". After spending a week bouncing around the Masai…