Nickname: "Kisiwa Cha Mvita – The Island of War"

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Mombasa is an island city on the coast of Kenya. It is the country's second-largest city after the capital Nairobi. A regional cultural and economic hub, Mombasa has an extra-large port and an international airport, and is an important regional tourism centre. Located on the east coast of Kenya, in Mombasa County and the former Coast Province. Mombasa's situation on the Indian Ocean made it a historical trading centre, and it has been controlled by many countries because of its strategic location. The island city is separated from the mainland by two creeks: Tudor Creek and Kilindini Harbour. It is connected to the mainland to the north by the Nyali Bridge, to the south by the Likoni Ferry, and to the west by the Makupa Causeway, alongside which runs the Kenya - Uganda Railway. The port serves both Kenya and countries of the interior, linking them to the ocean. The city is served by Moi International Airport located in the northwest mainland suburb of Chaani.

 

Mombasa is Kenya's main tourist destination. It is located on the Eastern coastline of Kenya bordering the Indian Ocean which has made it a popular destination for its beaches. Mombasa offers diverse marine life, world-class hotels and a friendly atmosphere. There is a tropical climate all year; it is a great destination filled with activities for all ages. Mombasa is a Swahili founded and ruled city. It was founded between the 1st and 5th century. At certain times it was occupied by the Portuguese, Arabs and British and originated back in the 16th century. Mombasa's culture today still exhibits that of its past. Historical ruins like Forte Jesus de Mombaça (Fort Jesus), an historic Portuguese fort, and the Old Town are attractions influenced by Mombasa's trade culture, with many examples of Portuguese and Islamic architecture.

 

Mombasa has a cosmopolitan population, with the Swahili people and Mijikenda predominant. Coral reefs fringe the coast for 480 km providing fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities, especially at Mombasa Marine National Park and around Wasini Island. Dolphin watching and deep-sea fishing are also popular. History buffs will enjoy exploring the 16th-century Fort Jesus and Old Town with its narrow streets, ancient Swahili dwellings, markets, and souvenir shops. The north shore of Mombasa is crammed with attractions including Mombasa Go-Kart, cinemas, sports, and a cornucopia of restaurants. This being a coastal hub, beach lovers will find some worthy strands nearby. North of the city, Nyali and Bamburi Beaches are favorites, while the white strands of Shelly, Tiwi, and Diani Beaches are popular spots south of Mombasa.

 

No matter your budget, contact us and we will help you decide on the destination of your choice and design an affordable and memorable safari experience that fulfills your safari desires, dreams and expectations. Contact us today and Unleash Your Spirit of Adventure with The Big Five Adventure Safaris!

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KEY FEATURES

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Location: Mombasa County, Coast Province, Kenya.

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Distance:​

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The calculated flying distance from Mombasa to Nairobi is equal to 274 miles which is equal to 441 km; about 45 minutes flight time. If you want to go by car, the driving distance between Mombasa and Nairobi is 484 km. If you ride your car with an average speed of 112 kilometers/hour (70 miles/h), travel time will be 04 hours 19 minutes. 

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Birds:​

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There are many seabirds in large nesting colonies and internationally significant numbers of crab plover and roseate tern. Other species of birds found include Weaver birds, Kingfisher, Storks, Herons, Egrets, Owls, Eagles, Kites, Cranes, Ibis and Sandpipers.

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Wildlife:​

 

The Haller Park is the largest animal sanctuary in Mombasa and it boasts an enormous variety of animals, reptiles, insects including the Vervet monkeys, Elands, Sitatunga, water-buck, Oryx, hippos, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes as well as smaller mammals.

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Marine Life:

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Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve lies between the Mtwapa and Tudor Creeks and its blue waters are ideal for wind surfing, water skiing, snorkeling and diving. They also provide a home to a colorful variety of marine species including crabs, starfish, stone fish, cucumbers sea urchins, corals, turtles, sea grasses and interesting migratory birds including crab plovers.

 

Activities:

 

Bird watching. Diving. Scenic. Snorkeling. Sunbathing. Walking. Water skiing. Wind surfing. Game viewing. Photography.

 

When to go:

 

The best time to visit Mombasa is during the summer months of December to March and if willing to brave through the marginally cooler evenings, the winter season of July to September as well. Summer is relatively more of the peak-tourist season, as these months are ideal for most water sport and beach activities.