Day Trip to Mombasa City & Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus Museum & Old Town Walking Tour

Start your experience with a guided visit to Fort Jesus, a 16th-century fortress built by the Portuguese and later used by Omani Arabs and the British. Explore its thick coral walls, historical cannons, old prison cells, and archaeological artifacts that reveal centuries of coastal warfare and trade.From the fort, stroll through Mombasa Old Town, a Swahili-Arab quarter known for its narrow lanes, ornately carved doors, balconies, and coral rag houses. Visit Mandhry Mosque, one of the oldest in East Africa, and explore curio shops offering handcrafted souvenirs, spices, coffee, and antiques.

Moi Avenue, Mombasa Tusks & Central Market

Drive along the iconic Moi Avenue, marked by the giant aluminum tusks erected in 1952 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth’s visit. Stop for photos and admire the colonial architecture and palm-lined streets.

Proceed to Uhuru Gardens, a public space commemorating Kenya’s independence. Then head to Mackinnon Market (Marikiti) – a colorful, chaotic, and vibrant central market where you’ll discover fresh tropical fruits, spices, vegetables, and traditional Swahili textiles.

An optional stop at the Shree Cutch Satsang Swaminarayan Hindu Temple reveals intricately carved interiors and vivid religious murals.

Akamba Handicraft Cooperative Society (Optional)

Explore one of the largest woodcarving cooperatives in East Africa. Meet skilled Akamba artisans crafting animals, masks, bowls, and furniture from local wood. Watch how these crafts are made, from rough logs to polished statues, using time-honored tools and techniques.

This is an excellent place to buy authentic souvenirs, support the community directly, and learn about Kenya’s craftsmanship heritage.

Swahili or Seafood Lunch Experience

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a locally recommended restaurant.

Choose from Swahili dishes at Jahazi Coffee House in Old Town, known for coconut rice, fish curry, chapati, and Swahili pilau. Alternatively, savor a seafood feast at the elegant Tamarind Restaurant, perched over the harbor.Your meal may include octopus in tamarind sauce, grilled prawns, or coconut fish, followed by fresh mango juice and traditional Swahili coffee or masala chai.

Mama Ngina Waterfront & Scenic Drive

Visit the beautifully landscaped Mama Ngina Waterfront, a favorite gathering place for locals overlooking the Indian Ocean. Stroll along the promenade, see traditional dhows, and take in the views of Likoni Channel, the port, and ferries below.Taste street snacks like viazi karai (fried potatoes) or mabuyu (baobab sweets) sold by vendors.Your drive back continues via Nyali Bridge or Likoni Ferry, depending on your departure point. Stop at English Point Marina for panoramic photos of the Old Town skyline and Fort Jesus across Tudor Creek.

Haller Park or Bombolulu Cultural Centre (Optional)

Depending on your interest and time available:

• Haller Park: A rehabilitated nature sanctuary home to giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, tortoises, antelopes, and butterflies. A quiet green escape from the urban rush.

• Bombolulu Cultural Centre: A unique project empowering people with disabilities through arts, jewelry-making, fabric design, and traditional dances. Tour reconstructed tribal homesteads and see live cultural performances.

Return to Your Hotel

After a culturally enriching and scenic day, your guide will transfer you back to your hotel in Diani Beach or the North Coast.