Mombasa City Tour - Fort Jesus, Old Town, Spice Town & Craft

Diani Beach , Kenya

Mombasa City Tour - Fort Jesus, Old Town, Spice Town & Craft

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(3 reviews)

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About this experience

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the ancient city of Mombasa as we take you on a journey through time.
Begin your adventure at the iconic Fort Jesus National Museum, where history comes alive before your eyes. Explore the charming Old Town, with its narrow streets and traditional architecture dating back centuries.
Marvel at the old dhow harbor, a testament to Mombasa's maritime history. As you also visit spice town and check out different spices that have been a key trade items from time memorial.
We'll take you to the Elephant Tusk where you will have a chance to take iconic photos and learn of the tusk’s significance.
Finally we will visit the Akamba Craft Centre where you will se how African traditional ornament are created from start to finish with a chance to get a unique souvenir to take back home.
The total tour duration is 7 Hours. With 3 hours being total travel time.

Available options

Mombasa City Tour - Fort Jesus, Old Town, Spice Town & Craft

Pickup included

What's included

All Activity fees including Fort Jesus Entry Fees

Private transportation

Pick up and Drop off to your Hotel/Residence/Location

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Pick up at 7:30 AM and Drive to Mombasa to begin your adventure.

Get to learn about Fort Jesus, which was built by the Portuguese in the year 1593 and designed by Italian architect JoaoBatista Cairato, the fort has stood the test of time. It was built to secure the safety of the Portuguese living in on the east coast of Africa. The fort has faced a lot of attacks and hostilities and has lived to tell the tale.

Old Town covers an area of 72 hectares (180 acres), and is inhabited by a mix of local, Arab and Asian settlers.

Getting to walk in old town will take you back in time and put into perspective the story of the Kenyan coast.

One thing that you are sure to notice while walking through Old Town is the carved doors. - The higher the tenement the bigger the gateway the heavier the padlock and the huger the iron studs which nail the door of heavy timber the greater the owners dignity

The spice market in Mombasa is a lively place right in the city centre. People from all walks of life gather here to discover a wide variety of spices, herbs, and cooking ingredients. The market is bustling with colourful stalls showcasing aromatic spices, creating a vibrant and fragrant environment that enchants the senses.

Exploring Mombasa's spice market isn't just about buying ingredients. It's a chance to dive into the local culture. You'll meet friendly vendors who love to talk about spices and cooking traditions. Besides spices, you can find dried fruits, nuts, teas, and even local crafts, making it a must-visit spot for food lovers and travellers

Visit the iconic Mombasa tusks and take memorable photos. Located in the heart of Mombasa, Kenya, the Mombasa tusks, also known as Pembe Mbili, are a well-known tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s history and culture. The four aluminum tusks, arranged in an M shape, stand over Moi Avenue, a major thoroughfare in the city.

While the tusks are a popular destination for tourists visiting Mombasa, they also hold significant cultural and historical significance for the people of Mombasa.

From their construction in 1952 to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to the renovations and additions made in 1956 and 2017, the tusks have stood as a testament to Mombasa’s past and a meeting place for its residents.

Discover the Akamba Handicraft Village in Mombasa and learn more about the rich culture of the Akamba people.

From beautifully carved wood sculptures to intricately woven baskets, this village is a haven for art enthusiasts.

Experience the authentic craftsmanship and connect with local artisans as they showcase their skills passed down through generations. Delve into the captivating history, take part in interactive workshops, and bring home unique souvenirs that will forever you remind you of the spirit of Kenya.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Diani Beach

Diani Beach is a stunning coastal resort area in Kenya, renowned for its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant marine life. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both tranquility and excitement.

Top Attractions

Diani Beach

Diani Beach is famous for its white sand and clear blue waters. It's a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kitesurfing.

Beach Full day or multiple visits Free (some water sports activities may require payment)

Kishwa Beach

Kishwa Beach is a quieter and more secluded beach compared to Diani Beach. It's an excellent spot for a peaceful day by the sea.

Beach Half day or full day Free (some activities may require payment)

Colobus Conservation

Colobus Conservation is a sanctuary dedicated to the protection of the endangered Angolan colobus monkey. Visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures and the conservation efforts being made to protect them.

Nature 1-2 hours Approximately $10-$20 per person

Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills National Reserve is a protected area known for its diverse wildlife, including the rare roan antelope. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching in this beautiful reserve.

Nature Half day or full day Approximately $20-$40 per person (including park fees)

Diani Beach Marine Park

Diani Beach Marine Park is a protected marine area known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours to explore the underwater world.

Nature Half day or full day Approximately $20-$50 per person (including equipment rental and park fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ugali and Nyama Choma

Ugali is a staple food made from cornmeal, while Nyama Choma is grilled meat, usually goat or beef. This combination is a must-try for any visitor to Diani Beach.

Main Course Contains gluten (ugali) and meat (Nyama Choma)

Pilau

Pilau is a spiced rice dish cooked with meat, usually chicken or beef. It's a flavorful and aromatic dish that's popular in the coastal region of Kenya.

Main Course Contains meat and spices

Octopus Curry

Octopus curry is a seafood dish made with tender octopus cooked in a spicy coconut curry sauce. It's a delicious and unique dish that's popular in the coastal region of Kenya.

Main Course Contains seafood and spices

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Kitesurfing Deep-sea fishing Sunbathing Beach walks Spa treatments Visiting local markets

Best Time to Visit

July to March

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities, water sports, and wildlife safaris. The weather is perfect for outdoor exploration and relaxation.

25-32°C 77-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Swahili
Widely spoken: Swahili, English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Diani Beach is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and a welcoming local community. However, it's important to exercise caution and follow basic safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night, keeping valuables secure, and being aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid isolated areas at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Mombasa Moi International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles)
Ukundwa Airstrip • 5 km (3.1 miles)

By bus

Mombasa Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Matatus are the most common form of public transport in Diani Beach. They are affordable but can be crowded and lack a fixed schedule.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bodaboda (for motorbike taxis)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Diani Beach Kishwa Beach Galu Kinondo

Day trips

Wasini Island

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

Wasini Island is a small island located near Diani Beach, known for its beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, snorkeling, and dolphin watching in the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park.

Mombasa Old Town

30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day or full day

Mombasa Old Town is a historic area with a rich cultural heritage, featuring narrow streets, colonial-era buildings, and vibrant markets. Visitors can explore the town's history, sample local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs.

Halloween Cave

30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

Halloween Cave is a historic site located in Mombasa, known for its association with the infamous pirate Henry Avery. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about its history and the legends surrounding it.

Festivals

Diani Beach Festival • July Lamu Cultural Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit Diani Beach during the dry season (July to March) for the best weather and beach conditions
Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and secure the best prices
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to learn more about the area's history, culture, and wildlife, and to gain insider knowledge and tips
Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites and local communities
Support local businesses and communities by shopping at local markets, eating at local restaurants, and booking tours with local guides