How to Plan Your Mombasa City Tour with Fort Jesus & Haller Park Entrance

Are you planning a trip to Mombasa and wondering how to plan a city tour to see the most famous landmarks and attractions? Look no further than this guided tour of Fort Jesus and Haller Park, complete with a stroll through the old town, a mouth-watering lunch, and a visit to a game sanctuary. This tour is perfect for history buffs, animal lovers, and anyone who wants to see the best of Mombasa in a single day. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Mombasa city tour with Fort Jesus and Haller Park entrance.

Experience

On this tour, you will:

• Take a guided tour of Fort Jesus and learn about its history
• Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and the spice market
• Enjoy a mouth-watering lunch at one of the best restaurants in town
• Drive along the famous Mama Ngina drive towards the Elephants Tusks landmark
• Visit Haller Park game sanctuary and reptile park for a thrilling afternoon

How to Plan Your Mombasa City Tour

Follow these steps to book your Mombasa city tour with Fort Jesus and Haller Park entrance:

Step 1: Choose Your Date

First, decide when you want to take your tour. This tour is available daily and begins at 8:00 AM from your hotel or desired location in Mombasa.

Step 2. Book Your Tour

Next, book your tour online at GetYourGuide.com. When you click on the link below to book the tour, you will be taken to a page where you can select the number of guests and the date you want to travel. Then, all you have to do is click “Book Now” and enter your payment details. Book the tour here

Step 3. Get Ready for Your Tour

On the day of your tour, make sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if you plan on spending time outside. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the memorable moments!

Tour Details

Here’s what you can expect on your Mombasa city tour with Fort Jesus and Haller Park entrance:

Stop 1: Fort Jesus

Start your day trip with pick-up from your hotel or desired location in Mombasa at around 8:00 AM. Drive through the city center towards the historical old town of Kibokoni where you will find the famous Fort Jesus Museum. Take a guided tour of the fort and learn about its history as a Portuguese fort, an Omani Arab fort, a British colonial garrison, and a Kenyan national monument. The fort offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, and you can see a variety of artifacts, including cannons, pottery, and porcelain.

Stop 2: Old Town & Spice Market

After the fort, stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, and see traditional Swahili architecture, quaint shops, and bustling markets. You’ll visit the spice market, where you can see and smell a variety of exotic spices and herbs.

Stop 3: Lunch

Next, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the best restaurants in town. You’ll have the chance to taste a variety of traditional Swahili dishes, including pilau, biryani, and coconut rice.

Stop 4: Mama Ngina Drive & Elephants Tusks Landmark

After lunch, drive along the famous Mama Ngina drive towards the Elephants Tusks landmark, which is one of the most photographed landmarks in Mombasa. The tusks are a symbol of the city’s heritage and culture.

Stop 5: Haller Park Game Sanctuary & Reptile Park

Finally, visit Haller Park game sanctuary and reptile park for a thrilling afternoon. The park is a former limestone quarry, and it has been transformed into a beautiful nature reserve. Here, you can see a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and monkeys. You can also see a fascinating collection of reptiles, including crocodiles, snakes, and tortoises.

In Book Your Tour Now

A city tour of Mombasa with Fort Jesus and Haller Park entrance is a great way to explore the history, culture, and wildlife of this coastal city. Follow the steps above to book your tour, and get ready for a day of adventure and discovery. Remember to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring a camera, and be ready to learn and explore. Book your tour today and experience the best of Mombasa!

FAQs about Mombasa

If you are planning to visit Mombasa, Kenya, you must have a lot of questions in mind regarding the city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Mombasa, along with their concise answers, to provide you with the essential information you need before your visit.

1. Where is Mombasa located?

Mombasa is a coastal city located in the southeastern part of Kenya, on the Indian Ocean. It is the country’s second-largest city after Nairobi and has a population of over a million people.

2. What is the currency used in Mombasa?

The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), and Mombasa also uses it as the primary currency. You can easily exchange your foreign currency at various banks or forex bureaus located throughout the city.

3. What is the best time to visit Mombasa?

The best time to visit Mombasa is from December to March and July to October. The weather during these months is dry and sunny, which is ideal for exploring the beautiful beaches and indulging in water activities. However, expect the accommodation prices to be higher during these peak tourist seasons.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Mombasa?

Mombasa offers a range of tourist attractions that cater to different preferences. Some of the most popular tourist spots in the city include:

• Fort Jesus
• Old Town
• Haller Park
• Mombasa Marine National Park
• Bombolulu Workshop

5. What is the local language spoken in Mombasa?

Swahili is the national language of Kenya and is widely spoken in Mombasa as well. However, English is also commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas and by the locals in the hospitality industry.

6. What is the food like in Mombasa?

Mombasa offers a diverse range of cuisine due to its cultural and historical influences. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Pilau – a rice dish cooked with spices and meat.
• Biryani – similar to Pilau but with a more significant proportion of meat to rice.
• Seafood platters – various fish and shellfish dishes such as grilled fish, curry crab, and prawns.
• Mangoes, pineapples, and passion fruits – the tropical fruits are abundant in the region and are perfect for cooling off in the hot weather.

7. What is the transportation like in Mombasa?

Mombasa has various transportation options, including matatus (minibusses), taxis, tuk-tuks, and boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis). The matatus are the cheapest but also the most uncomfortable and overcrowded, while taxis are more expensive but more comfortable and safe. Tuk-tuks and boda-bodas are suitable for short distances and can be found almost everywhere.

8. Is Mombasa safe for tourists?

Mombasa is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to take necessary precautions to avoid any unpleasant incidents. Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas, and keep your valuables safe. Also, be cautious of scams and petty thefts.

9. What is the dress code in Mombasa?

Mombasa is a conservative city, and it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local markets. Avoid wearing revealing clothes, shorts, or sleeveless tops, as it may attract unwanted attention.

10. What is the nightlife like in Mombasa?

Mombasa has a lively nightlife, especially along the beachfront area, with numerous bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. However, it is essential to be cautious when partying and ensure that you only frequent reputable and safe establishments.

Wrapping Up

Mombasa is a beautiful city and makes for an excellent destination for tourists looking to explore Kenya’s coastal region. By learning about the city’s culture, language, transportation, and other essential aspects, you can plan your visit better and have a memorable experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Mombasa, Kenya

Mombasa is a stunning coastal city in Kenya known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and varied cultural heritage. The city offers a variety of tourist attractions and activities that can keep you engaged and entertained throughout your stay. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Mombasa.

1. Visit Fort Jesus

Fort Jesus is a historic structure built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mombasa. The fort is open daily to visitors and offers guided tours that provide insight into the history and culture of the city. You can also enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and the city from the fort.

2. Explore Old Town Mombasa

Old Town Mombasa is a vibrant historic center with narrow winding streets and colorful markets. The area is home to many beautiful buildings, some of which are over 100 years old. You can explore the area on foot, take a guided tour or hire a local guide to show you around. Be sure to visit the Mandhry Mosque and the Jumba la Mtwana ruins.

3. Go on a Beach Safari

Mombasa has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and a beach safari is a great way to spend your time as a tourist in the city. You can visit different beaches such as Bamburi, Nyali, or Diani where you can swim, sunbathe or engage in water sports. Be sure to pack sunscreen, water, and a towel for your beach safari.

4. Take a Swahili Cooking Class

Mombasa is known for its rich culinary heritage, and taking a Swahili cooking class is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. You can learn how to make delicious dishes such as pilau, biryani, and chapati. The cooking classes usually take place in local homes or restaurants, and you can enjoy the meal you have prepared at the end of the class.

5. Visit the Haller Park

Haller Park is a privately-owned wildlife park that was formerly a limestone quarry. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and hippos. You can take a guided tour of the park to learn about its history and conservation efforts. You can also take a walk on the nature trail or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

6. Try Out Some Water Sports

Mombasa is a great place to try out different water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, and kite surfing. There are several beaches and water sports centers where you can rent equipment and take lessons from qualified instructors. You can also go deep-sea fishing or take a boat safari to see dolphins and other marine life.

7. Visit the Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve

The Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve is home to a large variety of marine life, including corals, dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous fish species. You can take a glass-bottomed boat ride to explore the marine park or go snorkeling or scuba diving. The park also has a visitor center where you can learn about the marine life and conservation efforts in the area.

8. Shop for Souvenirs

Mombasa has a vibrant shopping scene, and you can find a variety of unique souvenirs to take home with you. You can visit the local markets such as Marikiti Market or Kongowea Market, which are known for their fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. You can also visit the modern shopping malls in the city, which offer international and local designer brands. In conclusion, Mombasa is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of rich culture, history, and natural beauty. With excellent beaches, delicious food, and a variety of attractions, you are sure to have a memorable experience in this coastal city. I hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Mombasa and enjoy your stay.