Mombasa: History, Nature and Water Activities

Mombasa offers travelers several clearly distinct areas of interest: historic sites, exploring Mombasa Old Town, wildlife and conservation, and activities on the water. On Mombasa Island, Fort Jesus and Mombasa Old Town are considered the two most significant places of historical interest. Haller Park and the Mombasa Marine National Park & Reserve complement this perspective with their own nature and water experiences. For planning, it is helpful to consider these themes individually and decide which ones you would like to shape your stay.

Historic Sites and Their Historical Context

Fort Jesus served as a Portuguese garrison from 1593 to 1595. It is considered a well-preserved example of a 16th-century Portuguese military fortification. The fort’s history also includes the exchange of cultural values and influences among people of African, Arab, Turkish, Persian and European origin who fought for control of the strategic port. The dates when it served as a garrison and its classification as a 16th-century fortification shed light on different aspects of its history.

An old Hindu temple in Mombasa was built in 1952. The Mombasa Tusks were also erected in 1952 to mark Princess Margaret’s visit to the then British colony of Kenya. They are located on Moi Avenue in central Mombasa. Comparing the two dates reveals different historical contexts: 1952 is the year the temple was built, while the tusks’ construction is associated with the princess’s visit.

Exploring Mombasa Old Town

Mombasa Old Town offers a different way to explore history than Fort Jesus. Visitors can explore its bustling markets, numerous mosques and old landmarks. While Fort Jesus is shaped by its history as a garrison and a Portuguese military fortification, the old town offers several different areas to explore. On Mombasa Island, a single historic site with a military context sits alongside an old town district with markets, mosques and other landmarks.

Nature and Water Experiences

At Haller Park in Mombasa, wildlife encounters, forest trails and hands-on conservation learning opportunities are among the visitor experiences. This gives the park a different focus from the historic sites: here, nature experiences are combined with opportunities to learn more about conservation.

At the Mombasa Marine National Park & Reserve, visitors can snorkel and dive. Jet skiing, glass-bottom boat rides, sailing and windsurfing are also available. Compared with the nature and learning opportunities at Haller Park, the program here includes underwater activities, boat trips and sailing or wind-powered activities. Availability of jet skiing, glass-bottom boat rides, sailing and windsurfing may vary by provider. If you are interested, check directly with the relevant provider to confirm whether your chosen activity is available.

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