Mombasa County

Adorned with pearl-white sandy beaches stretching as far as the eyes can see, Mombasa is well known for its historical significance and glorious weather. Not only is Mombasa county the most multicultural region in Kenya, but it’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Quick facts

Population: 1.2 million as of 2019

Size: 229.7 km2

Capital city: Mombasa

Weather: Tropical with an average of temperatures 32°C

Seasons: Main rainy season between mid-April  

                Short rains in late May, October, and November

Location

Situated in the southeastern part of the former Coast Province, Mombasa county borders Kilifi County to the north, Kwale County to the southwest, and the Indian Ocean to the east. Covering an area of 229.7 km2 ( excluding 65 km2 of water mass) Mombasa county is the smallest county.

Regions in Mombasa County

Mombasa county consists of four regions

• Mvita- The island where the city was founded home to the old town and Fort Jesus
• Changamwe- The gateway to Mombasa city, this is where the airport and the railway station are situated.
• Kisauni- Fondly known as the ‘north coast’ home to luxurious beach resorts and shopping mall most popular areas Nyali 
• Likoni: home to Shelly beach and often called the south coast

Transportation In Mombasa County

Mombasa county is connected through its capital city Mombasa. Mombasa is a node to several modes of transportation including an international airport, Moi Airport, Mombasa SGR railway station, and one of Eastern Africa’s most important ports, Kilindini, which is also the main port for goods to Uganda, Burundi, and Rwanda.

Getting here 

By Air.

• Mombasa is a popular route with more than five local airlines flying at various times of the day. A flight from Nairobi to Mombasa takes 45min. Airlines flying to Mombasa include Kenya airways, blue Panorama, Condor, Ethiopian Airlines. Fly540, Fly-Sax, Jambojet, Kenya Airways, Mombasa Air Safari, Neos, Qatar Airways, RwandAir, TUI, Turkish Airlines, Uganda Airlines, KLM, and Precision air.

By Train 

A 530-km-long (SGR) railway line connects Mombasa to Nairobi. Operating several trips per day ‘Mandarak express’ takes less than five hours and a ticket on the economy class costs Ksh 1000 or Ksh 3000 for first class.

Train schedule

Mombasa to Nairobi:

1. Departure 08:00, arrival: 13:42
2. Departure 15:15, arrival 20:14

Nairobi to Mombasa:

1. Departure 08:20, arrival: 14:18
2. Departure 14:35, arrival: 19:18

By Road

Both buses and minibus run daily from Mombasa to Nairobi and a ticket costs around 1200 off-season. The journey takes about 12 hours.

Bus Companies operating this route include Mash Poa, Coast bus, Dreamliner, Spanish Coach, and Modern Coast Express.

Getting Around

A matatu (minibusses) is the most popular way for the locals to get around. Though not comfortable, these brightly colored minibusses are in plentitude. They also transport people and commodities to other counties from Mombasa.

Tuk-tuk and Boda-Boda

For the more adventurous and seasoned tourists, the tuk-tuks and Boda Bodas (motorbike taxis) are other popular options for getting around. A typical journey will cost you anywhere between 50-100 Ksh. 

Taxi

International mobile hailing apps like Uber are available. Although much more expensive taxis are the safer and the most recommended mode of transportation for tourists. Other apps include bolt and the little cab

Attractions In Mombasa County

Experiences and sports

Shopping

Shopping malls & supermarkets

• City Mall Nyali, 9AM-10PM
• Carrefour Hypermarket
• Nyali Center
• Naivas Supermarkets. 6:45AM-8:30PM
• Chandarana Food Plus Supermarket 8AM-8PM
• Nawal Centre Department store 8:30AM-7PM. A 7-floor department store mainly displaying household items and clothing.
• Ratna shopping mall

Restaurants & Bars

Ranging from budget eateries by the road to high-end restaurants offering various cuisines, Mombasa county has enough options to suit all diets and budgets. Head over to our Dining section to find the best restaurant for you.

Accommodation In Mombasa County

Whether you’re looking for an exclusive island getaway or a remote off-the-beaten-track beach holiday, our selection of accommodations is sure to inspire you. Browse through our accommodation section or contact us for your perfect in Mombasa County.