Mombasa is an
island connected to the mainland by bridges and
ferries. The town over looks a wide harbor, where
commercial shipping mingles with traditional sailing
dhows.
Modern Mombasa is a city of great diversity and
life. This is a town were all are welcomed and
quickly absorbed into this great coastal melting
pot. Mosques, Hindu Temples and Christian churches
surround streets that thrive with a world of
cultures. Mombasa Beaches and Water Sports
Mombasa has undoubtedly one of the best white
sandy beaches in Africa. The warm waters of the
Indian Ocean cater to all types of tourists: those
looking for a quiet swim, a place for kids to play,
deep-sea fishing, and water sports activities such
as scuba diving and sailing.
Old Town: This lively and exotic area in
Mombasa is famous for its spices, Arabic
architecture, narrow winding streets, busy markets,
and traditional clothes - khanga and kikoy that is a
hallmark of coastal Mombasa.
Old Harbor: Old Harbor still revels in its
colonial past and is still bustling with activity
and trade. Here, you can watch the dhows (in ancient
décor) cruising the waters and even taking their
trade to as far as Yemen and the coastal regions of
the Persian Gulf.
Fort Jesus: On the waterfront, overlooking
the harbor, stands the 16th century Fort Jesus that
has witnessed many battles and has borne evidence to
Kenya's struggle for independence, is a must see for
any tourist visiting Mombasa.
Traditional Markets: Shopping in Nairobi
is a delightful experience and makes for an
interesting way to tour Mombasa on foot. From local
craft vendors to the savvy merchants in Biashara
Street, Mombasa is great place to shop for curios,
ethnic wear and traditional beach wear - khanga and
kikoy.
Activities: Though an island port city,
Mombasa is famous for its architectural buildings,
traditional markets, rides on traditional trade
ships (dhows), and museums that tell the stories of
slave trade, colonial rule in East Africa and the
emergence of a country that values its freedom as
much as it values its natural resources and
cosmopolitan character.
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