Identified by a combination of Arab, India and African art, the deafening waves at the coral beaches beneath Fort Jesus, the rapturous desire for fellowship over the ancient town, diverse cultures, warm climate, white sand beaches and the charming faces of the different Merchants buying and selling different commodities; Mombasa is the place to be.
Mombasa is Africa’s Business Hub, and most famous cosmopolitan port which seduces thousands of merchants, and tourist; domestic and foreigners through her history, the sweet scent of spice, architecture, modern and ancient buildings. This island is linked to the mainland through ferries and bridges which can accommodate both goods and people.
At the corner of the Indian Ocean stands a statue named Fort Jesus watching over the port, and other routes set in the sixth century as the Portuguese army fought the Shiraz Arabs to gain control of the harbor. It is famous for world-class hotels, diverse marine life, warm serene, and activities for tourists of all ages.
Mombasa is ranked as one of the oldest cities in sub-Saharan Africa, though the dates it got this upgrade remains a mystery. In the 12th century, Al idrisi, an Arab geographer visited the place and recognized it a prosperous port. Yet at that time, it was a very successful city-state in East Africa known as the Swahili coast, with trade routes connecting to China and India.
In 1498, Vasco da Gama; a Portuguese explorer visited the place and stayed for six days, marking the end of harmonious living in this small town and the start of Chaos. In 1505, Francisco de Almeida commanded the Portuguese to rob the village before taking control in 1529 and erecting fort Jesus in 1593, which stands to date. Thereafter, a period between 1600 and 183, the Portuguese are overthrown by the fierce Sultanates of Oman who took over the place.
Forward to 1856, the sultans of Oman and Muscat divided the area into two, and Mombasa was sliced to the territory of the sultanate of Zanzibar until 1895 when the British conquered it. Mombasa was made a capital city of the African protectorate up to 1905.
A lot of progress was registered, including the construction of a railway line which connected to Uganda though the East African protectorate collapsed in 1920, living Mombasa as the capital city of Kenya until 1963 when the country attained her independence.
Mombasa has four administrative divisions (Mvita, changamwe, kasauni, and Likoni), and clearly defined geographically. There is a mixture of both ancient and modern architectures which makes it even more charming and appealing to Visitors. The languages spoken include Kiswahili which is the main, though English, Arabic, and many others are accepted.
Accessibility.
Mombasa is accessible to everyone who wishes to visit. Boats, ferries, buses, motorcycles, and Tuk -Tuks are available at very affordable rates, and the journey time depends on your location and the transport means. For those who prefer flying or are from abroad, it takes 40-45 minutes to fly from Nairobi to Mombasa using Available aircrafts such as Jambo jet, Kenya airways, and Silverstone air among others. Rwanda air, Blue panorama, fly540, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Uganda Airlines among others work for those abroad.
Besides the endless trade in Mombasa, there are places and activities you must not Miss:
Mvita Island
The first town in Mombasa decorated with ancient Arab infrastructures, street foods, shops, and very beautiful modern buildings. It is where the city was first established, relatively peaceful, with four hospitals and the fascinating Fort Jesus which was made a UNESCO World Heritage in 2011.
The Butterfly house
Located opposite Fort Jesus is an exciting destination in Mombasa which welcomes all categories of Visitors, both old and Young. You will spot Butterflies in their different stages, right from the larval stage to maturity, amphitheater, and the evidence of the slave trade at a pocket-friendly cost.
Fort Jesus
One of the most famous destinations in Mombasa, erected by the Portuguese after their victory in 1596; It was first used for military purposes for approximately three centuries before transforming It into what hundreds of visitors see today.
In 2011, it was named a UNESCO world heritage site. The Historical artifacts of the Mombasa are kept here, the slave trade exhibits, the torture rooms, Arabic pieces of equipment, musical instruments, and Museum forms the mix.
Haller Park
Established in 1985 and covering a land space of approximately 75 hectares of land, on a coral reef, you will spot different mammals such as giraffes, monkeys, different reptile species, and hippos among others. The most perfect time of visiting is in the afternoon when the creatures are being fed so as you find out some of the hidden attributes.
Beaches
Mombasa is also adorned with some of the best white sand beaches perfect for relaxation, and several other beach activities. In Nyali Beach, Bamburi Beach, and Shanzu Beach, you can engage in several activities such as nightlife, Carmel ride, guided walks, swimming, and diving among others. There are several beaches in Mombasa which will amaze you.
Mombasa Marine National park and reserve
A park is a wonderful place for all those who love diving because of her Leven coral reef. It is the most visited Marine Park in Kenya, occupying a 200km2 of land.
Best time to visit Mombasa
Mombasa is busy all year round, with various activities taking place such as trade, importation, and exportation among others. However, as a tourist, it is vital that you either visit during weekends (Friday to Sunday) or during the dry season. The place receives little rain in October to December and the much rain from late March to May.
Accommodation options in Mombasa
Accommodations in Mombasa are spread across the place and your pocket dictates the quality you will use; be it budget, midrange or luxury accommodation.
In summary, Mombasa is one of the places on earth worth visiting, either as a tourist or a business person. There are several historical and modern eye-catching sceneries to watch and unforgettable activities to engage in.
