Discover 16 Great Tours & Things To Do In Mombasa

Mombasa is a city that offers something beyond its famous beaches. This coastal hub is packed with history, culture, and wildlife adventures that can turn your trip into a memorable experience. Whether you’re interested in walking through ancient streets, exploring vibrant markets, or going on safari, Mombasa has a diverse set of options to suit different tastes.

We especially love the Walking Tour Through Old Town Mombasa and Fort Jesus, because it combines history, architecture, and local flavor—all at a friendly price.

For a more comprehensive city experience, the Mombasa City Tour offers highlights and hidden gems, ensuring you get a true feel for this lively city.

In this guide, you’ll find 16 of the best tours and things to do in Mombasa. We’ve grouped them by interest—history, wildlife, active adventures, and day trips—so you can quickly find what suits your style and schedule.

1. Walking Tour Through Old Town Mombasa and Fort Jesus

This private tour is a top pick for its personalized approach, led by a local Kenyan guide who shows you sights you’d struggle to find alone. It includes visits to the Mombasa Tusks—a symbol of colonial history—then heads to the Spice Market, where you can sample local flavors like turmeric, pepper, and curry powders.

The tour winds through Old Town Mombasa, visiting the Fish Market, the Old Port, and the Hindu Temple, plus a walk through Akamba Handicraft for souvenirs.

The highlight is a guided visit to Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site illustrating Portuguese military architecture from 1593.

What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—it’s just for your group, making it easy to go at your own pace. Reviewers praise Humphrey’s knowledge and the personal touch, with comments like, “Humphrey was extremely kind, knowledgeable, and respectful.” The cost is $50 per person for about 2-4 hours, offering excellent value for such a deep dive into Mombasa’s history.

Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers and those wanting a relaxed, in-depth introduction to Mombasa’s Old Town.

2. Mombasa City Tour

If you want to see the city’s highlights with a local guide, this four-hour tour is a smart choice. It includes visits to the Old Town, the Mombasa Tusks, and the Akamba woodcarving market, giving you a mix of history, craftsmanship, and culture. Your guide explains Mombasa’s layered past—from the 800-year-old Old Town to the darker history of the slave market—making it educational and engaging.

With a small group of no more than 20 people, the tour offers a personalized experience and flexibility. Travelers like Anton have raved about the guide’s professionalism, saying, “He and his driver were already waiting when I arrived, and he was very knowledgeable.” The cost is $45 per person for roughly 4 hours, making it a good value considering the sights.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Mombasa’s most important sites in a short time.

3. Half-Day Scenic Bike Tour

For active travelers, this bike tour offers a fun way to explore beyond the city center. You’ll pedal through villages, fruit forests, and along coastal roads, discovering parts of rural Kenya most visitors miss.

The tour includes four routes with varying difficulty, ensuring a suitable challenge for most fitness levels. Bikes, helmets, and gloves are provided, and bottled water and bananas keep you energized.

Reviewers like Julius praise the guide’s friendliness and the scenery, noting, “The scenery was amazing, and Julius biked at a moderate pace, making it accessible for all.” The tour lasts about four hours, priced at $48 per person, providing good value for a full morning or afternoon of activity.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active explorers who want to see Kenya’s countryside and local villages in a memorable way.

4. Mombasa: Tusks, Fort Jesus, Old Town, Beach and City Tour

This tour combines city sights with a touch of coastal relaxation, offering a broad overview of Mombasa’s history and culture. It covers the iconic Elephant Tusks, the Fort Jesus Museum, and walks through Old Town.

You’ll get to taste Swahili spices and see Pembe za Ndovu, a landmark with historical significance. The tour also includes some beach time, making it suitable for those wanting a balanced day.

At $30, it’s a budget-friendly option that packs in multiple experiences. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and interesting stops, making it a good choice for first-time visitors who want a quick but comprehensive city tour.

Bottom Line: Great for budget-conscious travelers who want a mix of history, culture, and a glimpse of the coast.

5. 2 Days Tsavo East National Park Tour From Mombasa/Diani (1 Night)

This private safari offers a quick escape from the city’s hustle. Over two days, you embark on guided game drives searching for elephants, lions, leopards, and more. Accommodation, park fees, and meals are included, making it hassle-free.

It begins with a morning drive and a game drive in Tsavo East, followed by an overnight stay at a lodge overlooking a waterhole—the ultimate spot for wildlife viewing.

Visitors praise the guide’s expertise, noting, “We saw elephants, lions, giraffes, and many more.” The tour costs $506.50 per person and is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts with limited time but a desire for a genuine safari experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a short, guided safari that covers Kenya’s most iconic wildlife areas.

6. Visit to Fort Jesus and the Old Town of Mombasa

This half-day tour deep dives into the history of Mombasa’s colonial past. It begins with an extensive visit to Fort Jesus, a UNESCO site built by the Portuguese, then explores the narrow streets of Old Town, full of Arab and Swahili influences. You’ll stop at the Spice Market to see local produce and visit the Shri Cutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple.

It’s a good choice for history and architecture fans looking to understand Mombasa’s diverse cultural influences. It’s priced at $40 per person for around three to four hours, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary.

Bottom Line: Recommended for history buffs and those wanting a detailed cultural walk.

7. 2-Day Safari in Taita Hills from Mombasa

This two-day safari combines Tsavo East with Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. It includes guided game drives, overnight stays at the Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge, and visits to waterholes popular with nocturnal animals. The package covers meals, park entrance fees, and transfers, making it an easy way to see more of Kenya’s wildlife.

Guests mention the “excellent driver,” with sightings of elephants, lions, and giraffes, making it perfect for wildlife photographers and nature lovers. Costing $399 per person, it’s suitable for those seeking a comprehensive safari experience with comfort.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a combined wildlife experience over two days with premium accommodations.

8. 3 Days Safari Tsavo East and Taita Hills (Saltlick lodge)

For a true African adventure, this private three-day safari covers Tsavo East, West, and Taita Hills. It’s a deep dive with multiple game drives, staying overnight at Salt Lick Lodge, which overlooks a waterhole. It’s an immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Most reviews rave about the guides’ expertise and the variety of animals seen, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs. The price is $900 per person, offering all-inclusive comfort and convenience for serious safari fans.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an extensive, multi-day safari with all logistics handled.

9. Moi International Airport To Diani Beach Taxi Services

Pre-book your transfer from Moi International Airport to Diani Beach with this reliable service. For $54, the private car guarantees a smooth arrival, avoiding the hassle of finding transport after a long flight. The service is flexible, with pickups timed to your schedule, and drivers are familiar with the best routes.

Perfect for travelers arriving at Mombasa and heading straight to the coast, this service offers peace of mind and comfort. Reviews highlight the professionalism and punctuality of the drivers.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for stress-free airport transfers, especially if arriving late or with lots of luggage.

10. Full Day Tour in Mombasa

This full-day sightseeing tour is ideal for cruise ship passengers or short-stay visitors. It covers Fort Jesus, the Old Town, and the Elephant Tusks, plus a walk through a local market and shopping in a handicrafts store. Your private guide ensures personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

Priced at $103 per person for 9-11 hours, it’s a good deal considering the comprehensive coverage. Travelers praise the informative guides and smooth logistics, making it a practical way to maximize your time.

Bottom Line: Suitable for those with a full day to explore Mombasa’s highlights comfortably.

11. Mombasa: Kisite Park Private Cruise with Breakfast and Lunch

Enjoy a private boat cruise, with options to snorkel or dive in Kisite Marine Park. The tour includes a Swahili breakfast, a seafood lunch, and time at the sandbank for relaxation. You’ll also visit Wasini Island and the Shimoni Slave Cave, adding cultural and historical insights.

This tour is perfect for marine life lovers and those seeking a luxurious, intimate experience. The $160 per person price reflects the exclusivity and included meals. Reviews mention the dolphins and vibrant coral reefs as highlights.

Bottom Line: Great for couples or small groups looking for a sea adventure with comfort and cultural stops.

12. 4 Days Tsavo West, Amboseli and Tsavo East National Park Safari

This extensive safari covers Kenya’s top parks, offering multiple game drives, stunning scenery, and wildlife viewing. Highlights include Mzima Springs, Mt. Kilimanjaro views, and the chance to see big cats and elephants. Accommodations are included, making it a stress-free, immersive experience.

Guests mention the guides’ expertise and the variety of animals seen, from lions to rhinos. Costing $2,235 per person, it’s a premium experience optimized for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a well-rounded safari vacation.

Bottom Line: Perfect for serious wildlife fans who want to explore multiple parks with all logistics taken care of.

13. Mombasa: Guided Nature Walk Amongst Giraffes

This gentle walk offers a chance to see freely roaming giraffes, along with antelopes and ostriches, in a sanctuary setting. Guided by an expert, you learn about wildlife conservation in Africa while getting close to these majestic creatures.

It’s a relaxing, family-friendly activity priced at just $34, making it accessible for all ages. Reviewers enjoy the opportunity to interact with giraffes, with one noting, “We learned a lot about conservation and had fun feeding the giraffes.”

Bottom Line: Ideal for families and nature lovers wanting a tranquil, educational wildlife experience.

14. Fort Jesus Museum Walking Tour in Mombasa

This guided walk takes you through the historic Fort Jesus, exploring its role from the Portuguese era onward. Then, it continues through Old Town, showing Arab architecture, the spice market, and local artisan shops. The tour provides a detailed look at Mombasa’s colonial past and multicultural present.

Priced at $35 for about four hours, it’s a good value for those interested in history and culture. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: Best for history buffs and those wanting an in-depth cultural walk.

15. 3 Days(2 nights) Tsavo East Tour & Saltlick

This private safari offers an immersive three-day experience, with multiple game drives and stays at the Salt Lick Lodge overlooking a waterhole. It includes visits to Tsavo East and Taita Hills, with chances to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.

Guests commend the guides’ professionalism and the wildlife sightings. It’s priced at $987 per person, which reflects the all-inclusive nature and comfort level. It suits travelers seeking a comprehensive safari with minimal planning.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting an extended, all-inclusive wildlife adventure.

16. Mombasa Half-Day City Tour with Fort Jesus and Haller Park

This half-day tour combines Mombasa’s historic sites with wildlife at Haller Park, where you can see hippos, giraffes, and zebras. It’s perfect for a quick, enriching exploration, especially if you’re short on time. The tour includes visits to Fort Jesus, the spice market, and the Mombasa Tusks, providing a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s highlights.

At $150, it’s a bit pricier but offers private door-to-door service, making it very convenient. Reviewers note the guide’s knowledge and the chance to see lots in a short time.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers with limited time who want a personalized, comprehensive city tour.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Mombasa

When selecting your tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If history is your focus, the Walking Tour Through Old Town Mombasa and Fort Jesus or the Fort Jesus Museum Walking Tour are excellent. For wildlife and safaris, the 2 Days Tsavo East National Park or the 4 Days Tsavo West, Amboseli, and Tsavo East provide immersive experiences.

Active travelers should look at the Half-Day Scenic Bike Tour, while families or those with limited time might prefer the Half-Day City Tour. Book early, especially for safaris or tours with limited availability, to ensure your preferred dates.

Mombasa offers a wide variety of tours, from historical explorations to wildlife safaris and active adventures. Whether you want a deep dive into the city’s past or an exciting trip into Kenya’s wilderness, you’ll find an option that fits your style.

For a balanced experience, consider pairing a city tour with a safari—both are accessible and rewarding. As always, plan ahead and confirm bookings early to make the most of your trip to this fascinating Kenyan coast.