Villas in Mombasa

Kenya's second most prominent city after Nairobi, and East Africa's main port, we are talking about Mombasa. A tourist attraction and an exciting demonstration of the vestiges left by the Arabs, Persians, Portuguese and English due to its strategic location and the commercial activity that took place there. Bamburi Beach, Kenyatta Beach and even accommodation in villas just metres from the city centre are your best alternatives. There are several locations where Holidu has various villa options for your visit to this interesting cultural attraction, all interesting alternatives if you want to be close to the beaches and historical sites of the city.

As a city where coastal tourism is prominent, the villa options for your stay are varied and well priced. There are more traditional villas for those on a budget, as well as more modern options that maintain fine and luxurious decorations. There are alternatives for large groups, families and even solo travellers or couples who want to spend some quality time having a barbecue in the garden or walking towards the Kenyan shores as the sun goes down.

One of Mombasa's greatest tourist attractions is the places where they showcase the wildlife and how they care for the different species they have. From monkeys to giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, buffaloes and turtles, you'll be able to see all kinds of life in the several zoos and nature areas in Mombasa. One of the most popular ones is Haller Park, a large zoo where several species live, and tourists can watch them being fed. Many say that Owen the hippo has a story worth hearing - make sure you don't miss it! There is also the Mamba Village Centre, an exciting place for families where you can meet the crocodiles, and even have your photo taken with your hand in their mouth at the end of the day. Last but not least, you can visit the Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, where you will have a unique walk with giraffes and take pictures with them - you can bring binoculars and get a glimpse of the distant wildlife in the sanctuary! Definitely an experience not to be missed.

Monuments and historical sites abound in Mombasa. One you cannot miss is Fort Jesus, a Unesco World Heritage Site designed by Italian architect Cairati. Although partially in ruins, it has incredible displays of pottery and ceramics resulting from the past trading activities of various cultures along the coast. But don't forget Mama Ngina's Drive! This location is one of the top choices for families who want to relax and enjoy a quiet day out in Mombasa, and try the fries with spicy lemon sauce! Now, when it comes to culture, we can't forget about religion: the Shree Cutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple is a Hindu temple with great architecture and significance, so take a moment to escape the noise and stress of the city and visit this representation of Hinduism in Mombasa.

One of the best ways to detail the culture and history of a tourist location, is by taking a look at the places that persist in its past structures. The Old Town of Mombasa is one such location. Located in the southeast of the island, we see the old town with the traces left by the Portuguese when they held this port. History enthusiasts, this is your tourist destination!

In commemoration of Queen Elizabeth's visit to Mombasa in 1952, the Mombasa Tusks were built. These giant aluminium tusks have become a landmark location in the city, providing a gateway to the central part of the city where you can find the island life itself: the best shops, markets and even banks. A curious fact is: these tusks simulate an ''M'' corresponding to its name ''Mombasa''.

Families, children and speeders, this is your moment! Mombasa Go-Kart is a big hit, you can have a great time driving around the smooth concrete go-karts, bounce around in all terrain buggies or get to learn how to use the Bobcat excavator. Plus, after the adrenaline rush you can get a good snack: that's what you need to make up for all the fun! In addition to big screens to watch sports games or play video games

One of the highlights of Mombasa are the day trips. One of the locations where you can do these activities is Wasini Island; you can see dolphins cruising the waters frequently and snorkel the reef on the way, an experience like no other!

The Kisite-Mpunguti National Marine Park is another natural attraction that tourists love in Mombasa, located south of Wasini Island; in the Shimoni Channel you can see dolphins and from August to October there is a beautiful show of humpback whales swimming through the waters. Other marine animals you can see at this location include fish such as grouper and snapper, as well as moray eels and green sea turtles.

One small place you'll find on the banks of Kilifi Creek has a big story behind it that you'll love - yes, we're talking about Kilifi! One of the most attractive places in this location is the Mnarani Ruins, an ancient Swahili settlement that was active in the 14th century. Previously, this place could only be reached by ferry, but in recent years a bridge has been built which has made it more accessible to visit - enjoy!

The Bombolulu Workshops is a project run by the Association for the Physically Disabled in Kenya, it has a restaurant, a cultural centre and also sheltered workshops. Here you can enjoy dances and visit traditional houses; on the other hand, you can attend workshops and buy Kenyan souvenirs and handicrafts.