DISCOVER MOMBASA
Indian Ocean Beaches, Swahili Culture & Safari Adventures
MOMBASA HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS
Why Visit Mombasa?
- Relax on the beautiful white sands of Diani Beach, one of Kenya’s most celebrated stretches of coastline.
- Sail along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline aboard a traditional dhow and experience the coast from the water.
- Combine time on the coast with a safari in nearby Tsavo, where elephants and other iconic African wildlife can be encountered.
- Explore Mombasa’s historic Old Town and visit Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the Old Port.
- See the famous Mombasa Tusks on Moi Avenue, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
- Explore more of Kenya’s beautiful coastline, including the relaxed beaches and coastal scenery around Kilifi.
- Combine the beaches of the Kenya coast with a safari in Tsavo East or Tsavo West National Park for a classic safari-and-beach holiday.
- Snorkel among colourful coral reefs and tropical marine life in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park.
- Enjoy relaxing days on the Indian Ocean coast before continuing your journey to some of East Africa’s finest safari destinations.
Fascinating Facts
- Diani Beach is one of Kenya’s best-known coastal destinations, famous for its long white-sand beach, turquoise waters and palm-fringed shoreline.
- Fort Jesus was built by the Portuguese between 1593 and 1596 to protect the port of Mombasa. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city’s most important historic landmarks.
- Mombasa’s Old Town is known for its narrow streets, intricately carved doors and distinctive Swahili architecture, reflecting centuries of African, Arab, Asian and European influence.
- The famous Mombasa Tusks span Moi Avenue and were created in 1956 to commemorate a visit by Princess Margaret. They have since become one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
- Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reached Mombasa in 1498 during his historic voyage along the East African coast on his way to India.
Plan a personalised Mombasa Holiday
Mombasa holidays offer the perfect combination of Kenya’s beautiful Indian Ocean coast, white sands, warm tropical waters and a wonderful choice of hotels and resorts.
Tell us what you have in mind and we’ll help you choose the right hotel or resort, together with any safari experiences you would like to include. Your Mombasa holiday can be tailored around your preferred travel dates, interests and budget.
When To Visit Mombasa
Mombasa holidays can be enjoyed throughout the year, although the weather varies between the drier and wetter seasons.
June to August is generally warm and relatively dry, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It is a popular time to visit the Kenya coast and combines particularly well with a safari.
September to November becomes warmer, with increasing humidity and occasional showers. There are still plenty of sunny periods, making this a good time for both beach stays and safari-and-coast combinations.
December to February is typically hot and sunny, with warm sea temperatures and higher humidity. It is a particularly popular period for a winter-sun holiday on the Kenya coast..
April and May usually bring the heaviest rainfall along the Kenya coast. Showers can be frequent and some safari camps may operate seasonally, but travel is still possible and resorts can be quieter during this period.
Planning a Safari and Beach Combination Holiday
Mombasa holidays are ideal for combining a relaxing beach stay with some of East Africa’s finest safari experiences.
Shorter safari experiences can also include Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary or Shimba Hills National Reserve, while travellers looking for a longer safari can combine the coast with destinations such as the Masai Mara, Amboseli or Laikipia.
With convenient air and road connections, your itinerary can be arranged in the order that suits you best — perhaps beginning with the excitement of a safari before slowing the pace beside the Indian Ocean.
Whether you are planning a romantic escape, a family holiday or a longer journey through Kenya, we can tailor your safari and beach combination around your interests, preferred accommodation, travel dates and budget.
Planning your trip? Check the latest UK government foreign travel advice before travelling.
