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MOMBASA REGION
This sultry area offers interesting things to see, beaches to relax on and
beautiful nature reserves to visit. Mombasa lies on the coast and is a
bustling city with a history stretching back to the 12th century. There is a
vibrant mixture of cultures, architecture and entertainment. At the Shimba
Hills National Reserve, you will encounter a lovely forest setting with
elephant, leopard and the rare, sable antelope.
Towards the south, there are a number of beaches and resort hotels. The
beaches are white and sandy with coral reefs to delight scuba and skin
divers. On the pleasant Shimoni and Wasini islands there is authentic
Swahili culture and a protected marine reserve. North of Mombasa there are
also several beaches like Nyali, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kikambala and Vipingo that
are well-worth a visit. It is here that you will find the exotic town of
Kilifi, home to artists and adventurers from all over the world.
The coastal town of Mombasa is
the second largest city in Kenya, with a population of half a million.
Located in the South-Eastern part of Kenya, it plays an important role in
the country’s economy, not only for its imports and exports through its
port-which is the largest in East Africa, but also as a destination for
tourists visiting Kenya.
Mombasa undoubtedly has one of the best white sandy beaches and coral reefs
that Africa has to offer. Coupled with an array of hotels on the beachfront
situated along the North and South coasts of the town, it characterizes
Mombasa as the ideal place for a vacation. This is why Mombasa is a major
tourist destination, and the tourism industry the number one earner of
foreign exchange in the country.
Apart from the beautiful beaches, another unique aspect of this wonderful
town is its rich history. The “Old Town” is reminiscent of the days when the
Portuguese used to rule Mombasa, and you can experience the history even
today in the structures that still stand, such as the Fort Jesus. The town
is heavily influenced by Arabic culture, and is more observable here than in
other parts of the town.
Another factor that draws tourists from Mombasa, not only internationally
but also from other areas within Kenya such as the capital Nairobi, is the
exciting nightlife. There are many nightclubs situated along the North and
South Coasts of the town, all of which have different themes that cater to
different crowds. Many hotels also have their own entertainment events,
which are very appealing to those wishing to have a relatively mellow
evening.
In the heart of the mombasa town is where most hospitals, businesses, banks,
shops and markets are situated. Hence almost all services such as health
advice, financial services, or any kind of shopping, are all provided for in
the city. Being a small town, Mombasa does not have a subway system. However
one can easily get around using the local bus service; or for a “truly
Kenyan experience” a ride in a “Matatu”- which is quite a unique adventure.
The mombasa town offers a host of quality restaurants offering a wide range
of foods, ranging from British, Chinese, Indian and Italian cuisine, to a
variety of local and traditional dishes.
Being a colonial country before independence, Mombasa has a kaleidoscope of
different cultures and languages. The most common language spoken is
Swahili, followed by English. However, being a town that thrives on tourism,
finding someone who speaks German, French, Dutch or any other language is
not much of a problem.
We hope you will allow us to help you plan for your holiday.
But if you do not have the time then at least join us for a day tour or an
overnight. Africa is famous for safari - try another safari option: our
sea-safaris. Our crews and dive team are the most experienced underwater
guides.
For more information
call us at or email us at
info@africanholidaysafaris.com
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