Mombasa
in Kenya

Mombasa

Mombasa is a coastal city in Kenya, located on the country’s eastern shore along the Indian Ocean. It is the country’s second-largest city after the capital of Nairobi, and is an important port city as well as a popular tourist destination.

The city is situated on a natural harbour, and is the centre of a metropolitan area that includes the nearby towns of Mtwapa, Changamwe, and Nyali. It is bordered to the north by Kilifi County and to the south by Kwale County.

The city is home to a variety of cultures, including the Swahili people, Arabs, and Asians. This mix of cultures is visible in the city’s architecture, which is a blend of traditional Swahili and Islamic styles.

Mombasa has a long and storied history, having been an important trading port since the 12th century. It was an important centre of the East African slave trade, and was later colonized by the Portuguese in the 16th century. The city was then taken by the Sultan of Oman, who ruled it until the 19th century.

In 1895, Mombasa became part of the British East Africa Protectorate, and was the capital of the British Kenya Colony from 1920 to 1963. During this period, the city was a major port and railway hub, and was the site of the historic Mombasa Conference in 1960, which was attended by Kenyan leaders and representatives from the United Kingdom.

In 1963, Mombasa became part of the newly independent nation of Kenya. Today, the city is a major industrial and commercial centre, and is the gateway to the country’s tourism industry. It is also home to a vibrant art and music scene, and is a popular destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.

Experience Mombasa with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Mombasa. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Mombasa

Mombasa, Kenya has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round. During the rainy season from April to June, the temperature is hot and humid with heavy rainfall, while the dry season from July to October is hot and dry. The short rainy season from November to December brings light showers and a cooler climate, while the hot season from January to March brings hot and humid weather with occasional showers. Overall, Mombasa has hot and humid weather year-round with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons.

Cruise weather for Mombasa

Our weather forecast for Mombasa helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Mombasa

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