Car Hire Mombassa Airport :: Mombassa District Guide

The history of Mombasa goes back to the 16th century when it was governed by the Portuguese, British and Arabs. The Portuguese explorer, Vasco De Gama, landed in Mombasa in 1498 with the intention of encouraging Christianity and also to trade with Portugal.

These countries have influenced the culture, buildings and outstanding features. Mombasa is a colourful port with a mix of modern and very old buildings and is Kenya’s second largest city. Located on Kenya’s east coastline it borders the Indian Ocean and is a major area for tourism in Africa. The beaches are classed as some of the best worldwide and with all the water sports including deep sea fishing it has something for all the family.

The marine life is endless and is a magnet for those who enjoy exploring under the sea. The people are friendly and the hotels are high class with luxury accommodation and cuisine. Most are along the sandy beaches and have individual themes; they have tennis courts and gyms and organise trips at sea and on safari. Exploring the town will reveal narrow twisting streets with antique and curio shops and the lively street bazaars. Plenty to see at the harbour, which is still in use, and the Hindu temple and most visitors are tempted to buy from the wood carvers in Akamaba. Food is fresh with fish straight from the sea and cooked while you sit and watch the sun go down, and with the various cultures the menus are quite diverse. The nightlife is made up of casinos and clubs, and bars with live music, and is active until morning.

Mombassa Airport

The airport is 7 miles from Mombasa and has I Cargo Terminal, and 3 Passenger Terminals. It handles around 900,000 passengers a year who are checked in through 19 desks and 4 gates. There is parking for short and long term and car rental is available. The usual facilities include restaurants and cafes; post office, bureau de change and duty free and gift shops and first aid. The staff is very friendly and helpful. For any special requirements call the airport or flight agent in advance.

Must See in Mombassa

• Fort Jesus Port built in 1593 by the Portuguese to guard the harbour is a landmark and also a museum.
• A short drive from Mombasa are the Shimba Hills which are over 1,000 feet high and have panoramic views over the Indian Ocean and African Bush.
  The Mombasa Elephant Sancturary is in 60,000 acres of dramatic hills and bushland and it also possible to see impala, cape buffalo or leopards here.
• Mamba is Swahili for crocodile and Mamba Village is actually a crocodile farm. After lunch on to Bamburi Nature Trail for tropical wildlife and flora

Dates for your Diary in Mombassa

• July – The 2 day Kenya Safari Rally battles with wildlife and rough terrain and ends in Nairobi.
• August - The local Camel Derby brings great entertainment alongside traditional dancing and merrymaking.
• November – Kenya’s best festival is the Mombasa Carnival and every culture and race takes part with their floats. Plenty of food, stalls selling local crafts and an impressive display of dancing.