Overview
Discover the Rich History and Culture of Mombasa
Mombasa, Kenya’s bustling coastal city, is a place where history, culture, and vibrant local life blend seamlessly. The island, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is steeped in centuries of tradition, with influences from Arab, Portuguese, British, and Swahili cultures. This half-day tour offers an exciting chance to explore Mombasa’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, from the historical Fort Jesus to the bustling Arab Town and the impressive Elephant Tusks.
Explore the fascinating history, architecture, and local crafts of this vibrant city while enjoying guided visits to some of Mombasa’s most famous cultural attractions.
7:00 AM – Pick-Up from Your Hotel
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel and a short drive into the heart of Mombasa Island. We’ll start the day with a visit to one of the city’s most famous craft centers.
Visit Akamba Handicraft Co-operative Society
The first stop is the Akamba Handicraft Co-operative Society, where you’ll see local artisans at work, handcrafting beautiful wooden carvings, masks, and ornaments. With over a thousand skilled artisans producing unique wood carvings, this stop offers a fascinating insight into the talent and artistry of the Akamba people. You’ll even have the chance to watch the craftsmen at work, turning simple pieces of wood into intricate pieces of art. This visit lasts about one hour.
Explore the Famous Elephant Tusks
Next, we head to Moi Avenue, where the iconic Elephant Tusks stand proudly as one of Mombasa's most recognizable landmarks. Commissioned in 1956 to commemorate the visit of Princess Margaret, the tusks symbolize the entrance to Mombasa and stand as a testament to the city’s history. Originally made of canvas and later reconstructed from aluminum, these giant tusks are a must-see when visiting the city. Your guide will share fascinating stories about their historical significance and the symbolism behind them.
Visit the Historic Fort Jesus
From the tusks, we move to one of Mombasa's most important landmarks: Fort Jesus. Built by the Portuguese in 1593 to protect their interests in East Africa, the fort is now a museum that tells the story of Mombasa’s colonial past, ancient trade routes, and the cultural exchanges that shaped the region. Explore the fort’s ramparts, exhibitions on East African art, and the fascinating history of the Portuguese, Omani Arabs, and later the British in the region. Your visit will take about one hour.
Dhow Harbor and Arab Town
After touring Fort Jesus, we continue to the Dhow Harbor, where you'll get a glimpse of traditional Arab dhows—wooden sailing boats that have been in use along the East African coast for centuries. The dhow harbor is a living testament to the region's maritime heritage.
From there, we’ll stroll through Arab Town, with its maze of narrow alleys and vibrant street life. Here, you’ll see beautifully carved wooden doors, bustling curio shops, jewelry stores, and local markets selling traditional Swahili crafts. The winding streets and intricate architecture make this area one of the most charming parts of Mombasa.
Hindu Temple Visit
Next, you’ll visit one of the Hindu temples in the area, learning about the diverse religious practices that have shaped Mombasa's culture over the centuries. Mombasa is a melting pot of faiths, and the Hindu community has a rich cultural history on the island.
City Market Visit
Your last stop is the City Market, where you can see a vibrant mix of fruit, vegetables, and spices sold by local vendors. This is a great place to experience the lively atmosphere of Mombasa’s street life and shop for souvenirs, if you wish.
12:30 PM – Return to Your Hotel
After exploring these iconic sites, we’ll drive you back to your hotel, where you’ll arrive by 1:00 PM, filled with new insights and memories of this captivating city.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring Mombasa’s streets
- A camera to capture the beautiful sites and landmarks
- Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
- Money for souvenirs or shopping at the market
Why Choose This Tour?
- Explore Mombasa’s History: Learn about the city’s rich colonial past and vibrant local culture.
- Iconic Landmarks: See the famous Elephant Tusks, visit Fort Jesus, and explore Arab Town.
- Cultural Immersion: Enjoy insights into local crafts, religion, and traditions with visits to the Akamba Handicraft Society, Hindu Temples, and City Market.
- Perfect for History Buffs: If you’re fascinated by history, architecture, and culture, this tour is a must.
Book Your Half-Day Mombasa Island Tour Today!
Discover Mombasa’s fascinating past, vibrant culture, and welcoming people on this exciting half-day tour. From ancient forts to bustling markets, this is your chance to explore one of Kenya’s most dynamic cities. Book today for an unforgettable adventure!
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- All entries as per the itinerary
- Professional guide in Fort Jesus and other areas
- Transport as per itinerary in a top up roof tourist fully converted van
- All our transport has insurance.
Excludes
- Drinks
- Gratuities for the service
- Yellow fever vaccination
- Visa
- Things of Personal Nature