Frequently Asked Questions
What is the currency in Mombasa?
The currency of Kenya (and therefore Mombasa) is the Kenyan shilling, but you’ll find that many places also accept British sterling and US dollars. If you’re leaving tips, it’s best to do so in the local currency, so that whomever you’re tipping doesn’t lose out to transaction fees.
When’s the best time to go to Mombasa?
The best time to visit Mombasa is during the long dry season, which lasts from July through to early October. There is also a shorter dry season in January, February and early March. Similarly, there are also two short rainy seasons that are best avoided, from late October or November to the end of December, and also throughout April and May.
Which is the best beach in Mombasa?
There isn’t an easy answer to this question, as the coastline just south of Mombasa boasts some of the best beaches in Kenya, but if you only have time to visit one, the beautiful Diani Beach should probably be top of your list.
With its rich, multi-cultural heritage, Mombasa is a city with many different sides to it, and the gateway to some of Kenya’s most spectacular scenery. From the powdery white sands of its beaches to the wild natural beauty of its national parks, expect some wonderful memories of your time spent here.
Why you’ll love Mombasa…
- Feeling the soft white sands of Diani Beach squeaking between your toes
- Immersing yourself in the history of battle-scarred Jesus Fort
- Getting wonderfully lost in the maze of streets and souks in Mombasa’s Old Town
- Dancing in the street during the colourful Mombasa Carnival in November
- Marvelling at the Swahili ritual that surrounds the humble cup of coffee at Jahazi Coffee House
- Inhaling the exotic aromas in Mombasa’s famous spice market
- Hearing the passionate call to prayer reverberating throughout the Old Town
- Absorbing the local culture in the galleries of the converted Old Law Courts
- Sampling the aromatic flavours of the local street food
- Spotting hippos, elephants, and lions while out of safari
- Visiting Masai villages in Amboseli National Park
- Stopping in your tracks to take in the views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Tsavo National Park
Did you know?
- The four giant aluminium elephant tusks that arch over Moi Avenue were created to commemorate the visit of Princess Margaret in 1956, back when Kenya was part of the British Empire.
- Mombasa Old Town is also home to the oldest mosque in Kenya, and the first hotel and post office too.
- The chase scene, featuring Leonard DiCaprio, in Inception was filmed in Mombasa Old Town.
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