Day Trips From Mombasa: Old Town, Beaches, Wasini, Shimba Hills and Tsavo

Kenya's second city has a long history as a trading port on the Indian Ocean, and its streets still carry Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences. Around the city you can find palm-fringed beaches, marine parks and, further inland, wildlife areas reached on a long day.

This page lists excursions beyond the city itself. For the city and coast overview see the Mombasa and the Kenyan coast guide and for accommodation the Mombasa and north coast where to stay guide.

This guide is part of our Uganda districts and towns guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Old Town and Fort Jesus

A walk through the narrow lanes of Old Town, with carved doors and balconies, brings the city's past to life, and the fort overlooking the harbour is a major historic landmark. Go in the cooler morning with a local guide who explains the layers of history. It suits nearly every visitor. See the Swahili coast culture and history guide for background.

Mombasa's position on an island, linked by causeways and ferries, shapes every excursion. Ferry queues, particularly at peak times, can add unpredictable delay, so allow generous time when you cross to the south coast and keep any flight or tour start times in mind.

North Coast Beaches

Bamburi and Nyali beaches lie a short drive from the centre and are good for a swim, a walk or a relaxed lunch. Tides influence swimming, so ask locally. See the Bamburi and Nyali beaches guide.

South Coast and Diani

Crossing the ferry south leads to Diani, one of the coast's best-known beaches, reachable on a long day or a short stay. Read the Mombasa to Diani route, the Diani Beach guide and the Diani activities and day trips guide.

Diani is easy to reach on paper, but the Likoni ferry and the coast road combine to make it a long day. Many travellers sensibly choose to stay a night or two rather than rush, then return by road or by a short flight to the Mombasa area.

Wasini and the Marine Park

Wasini Island, near the Tanzanian border, is reached by boat and offers snorkelling in marine park waters, village walks and seafood. It is usually a full day with an early start. See the Wasini Island guide.

Shimba Hills

This coastal forest reserve inland from the south coast is known for sable antelope and forest birds. It suits nature lovers on a half or full day. See the Shimba Hills activities guide and the Shimba Hills wildlife guide.

Tsavo East and the North Coast

Tsavo East can be visited on a long day or an overnight; see the Mombasa to Tsavo East route and the Tsavo East activities guide. Northwards, Kilifi, Watamu and Malindi offer beaches and marine life; see the Kilifi guide and Watamu beach guide.

For wildlife, Tsavo East offers a taste of the savannah for those on a coast holiday. A day visit gives a few hours of game driving, while an overnight stay allows early morning and late afternoon drives when animals are most active. Ask your operator which suits your schedule.

Planning Tips

The coast is hot and humid, so carry water and sun protection. Dress modestly in Old Town, and ask before photographing people. Ask operators about inclusions and group size. For wider planning see Kenya coast getting around.

If you are short of time, a half-day in Old Town combined with an afternoon on the beach gives a fine taste of the city. Hire a licensed guide for the historic area, carry a hat and water, and agree your return time with the driver before leaving the hotel.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team