Mombasa

Kenya’s second largest city is partly built on the mainland, but its major part is located on an island, which is surrounded by the mainland on three sides. The island is connected to the northern part of the coast by several bridges, but if you wanted to reach the southern coast of Mombasa, you will need to take a ferry.

Mombasa is full of surprises and provides all tourists with the remarkable experience of the African tropics steeped in centuries of history. Due to its legacy of being the largest port in East Africa, Mombasa is an important cultural spot. Asian, British, Arab, Indian, Portuguese, Chinese, and Omani migrants left traces of different cultures in the city, which are still present in today’s modern Mombasa both in the architecture and perhaps even in the traditional cuisine.

The most important remnant of the Portuguese sailors is Fort Jesus, the layout and form of which reflect the Renaissance ideal. Its architectural dimensions and geometric harmony were inspired by the proportions of the human body, while simultaneously meeting the functional needs of a modern and well-defended fortification. Even after several centuries, it is in excellent condition and is rightly a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Mombasa’s coastline offers nearly 500 kilometres of tranquil beaches with sun-bleached sand, rustling palm trees, and water that combines all shades of blue. One of the most famous beaches, Diani beach, offers everything from relaxation and water activities to buzzing nightlife. You can also visit Tiwi Beach, Watamu Beach – Turtle Bay, Nyali Beach, and many others. Besides the beautiful beaches and historical sites, Mombasa is a sprawling urban centre with plenty of activities for tourists.

As they say, you can combine the pleasant with the useful at a place called Bombolulu Workshops and Cultural Centre. At these Bombolulu workshops, you can do some shopping and at the same time help disabled Kenyans. You can watch traditional tribal dances, explore homesteads inspired by the life of Kenyan tribes, taste local cuisine at the quarter’s restaurant and buy handmade souvenirs.