Mombasa: Fort Jesus, Old Town & the beach
Take the train to the coast, stay on the north-coast beaches, and spend a day in the old city: Fort Jesus, carved doors in narrow lanes, and the smell of spices and frying viazi karai.
Mombasa is a beach holiday with a history lesson thrown in, if you want it. The Madaraka Express gets you from Nairobi to the coast in about six hours. From there it is a short transfer to a hotel on the north coast.
One day is for the city. Fort Jesus was built by the Portuguese in the 1590s and has changed hands more times than anyone can remember. The Old Town around it is best on foot with a guide who grew up there. In the evening, sit on the waterfront with a madafu and watch the ships come in.
Everything else is up to you: the pool, the beach, a dhow cruise or a day at Haller Park.
Highlights
- SGR train or flight from Nairobi
- Guided visit to Fort Jesus
- Walking tour of the Old Town
- Beach hotel on the north coast
Itinerary
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Day 1 · Train to the coast
Morning SGR from Nairobi, transfer to your hotel, afternoon on the beach.
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Day 2 · Old Mombasa
Fort Jesus and the Old Town with a local guide; evening at the waterfront.
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Day 3 · Your day
Beach, pool or an optional excursion.
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Day 4 · Back to Nairobi
Check out and transfer to the station or airport.
Included
- SGR economy tickets (first class or flights on request)
- Station and hotel transfers
- Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast
- Guided Fort Jesus and Old Town tour
Not included
- Lunches and dinners unless stated
- Optional excursions
- Drinks and tips
Questions travellers ask
Can we fly instead of taking the train?
Yes. Flights take about an hour and save most of a day. We will quote both so you can compare.
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