Hotels in Old Town Mombasa

Whispers of History and Nature: Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Old Town Mombasa

Old Town Mombasa is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and coastal charm on Kenya's northern coast. Wander through narrow, winding streets lined with intricately carved doors and vibrant Swahili architecture. Key attractions include the iconic Fort Jesus and the bustling markets filled with spices and crafts. Just a stone's throw away, enjoy the sun-soaked Bamburi Beach, where golden sands meet turquoise waters. Experience the rich heritage and warm hospitality that make this enchanting town a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic Kenyan adventure. Old Town Mombasa invites you to step back in time and embrace its unique allure. For the best hotel rates in Old Town Mombasa and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Old Town Mombasa

Old Town Mombasa is a vibrant destination known for its rich culture and history. Nyali Beach and Bamburi Beach are both fantastic for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Nyali Beach is ideal for first-time visitors, offering stunning views and various water activities, while Bamburi Beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere and nearby attractions. Accommodation options at both beaches range from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Old Town Mombasa:

1. Near Nyali BeachOpens in a new window: Nyali Beach is an ideal spot for travelers seeking a vibrant beach atmosphere combined with family-friendly and business amenities. Here, you can enjoy direct beach access and various activities. Consider staying at Cocoa Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that offers a great beach theme and business facilities, including a business center and meeting rooms. Another option is Jumeirah Beachfront ApartmentsOpens in a new window, a cozy guesthouse that provides delightful dining options, including English breakfast. For those who prioritize internet connectivity, Ayodya suites NyaliOpens in a new window is a solid choice, offering complimentary in-room WiFi and free self-parking, making it convenient for both leisure and business travelers.
2. Near Bamburi BeachOpens in a new window: Bamburi Beach is perfect for families and those looking to unwind with spa services amidst a beautiful coastal setting. Kilifi Bay Beach ResortOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel featuring a full spa, pool services, and child-friendly amenities like a playground and arcade game room, ensuring a relaxing stay for the whole family. If you're traveling with pets, Salty's Kitesurf VillageOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel welcoming pets, with direct beach access and amenities for your furry friends. For business travelers, BOFA Beach ResortOpens in a new window offers essential meeting facilities, making it a practical choice for work-related trips.

Things to do in Old Town Mombasa for first time

Old Town Mombasa offers a captivating blend of rich history and stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for a three-day getaway. Visitors can enjoy leisurely beach days, vibrant markets, and engaging educational experiences, alongside opportunities for boating, diving, or hiking, all while soaking in the local culture. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Old Town Mombasa:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Nyali Beach, where you can unwind on the soft sands or take a refreshing dip in the Indian Ocean. After soaking up the sun, head to Haller Park, a lovely nature reserve that features diverse wildlife and lush greenery, perfect for a leisurely walk. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Rabai Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
• Day 2: Start your day at Bamburi Beach, another stunning coastal spot ideal for relaxation and water activities. After enjoying the beach, visit the Colobus Conservation, where you can learn about the important conservation efforts for the endangered colobus monkeys and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Finish your day at Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, where you can take a peaceful walk through the sanctuary, spotting various wildlife and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Mombasa's colonial past and stunning views of the harbor. Next, explore the Mombasa Marine National Park, where you can engage in snorkeling or simply enjoy the pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Conclude your day at the Shree Cutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple, an architectural marvel that provides a tranquil space for reflection and appreciation of the local culture.

5 tips to find a great Old Town Mombasa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Old Town Mombasa on a budget is during February, October, and November, when hotel prices are more affordable. For a great value for money, plan to stay for at least 4-5 days to fully experience the area's main attractions. Key sites to explore include the beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and fascinating monuments, all of which contribute to the charm of this historic destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discovering last-minute deals to Old Town Mombasa can lead to exciting savings on your next getaway. To explore these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. You might also want to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping ensure you’re ready to take advantage of any opportunities for great savings on your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Old Town Mombasa.
4. Consider your location: Think about your location when booking on Hotels.com for your vacation. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you wish to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Old Town Mombasa and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Old Town Mombasa

Here are some top-rated dishes in Old Town Mombasa, Mombasa, Mombasa County, Kenya:

• Pilau: A fragrant rice dish, pilau is infused with a blend of spices like cumin, cardamom, and cloves, often cooked with meat or vegetables. In Old Town Mombasa, you'll find variations that reflect the Swahili influence, typically featuring local seafood or chicken, making it a delightful way to experience the region's rich culinary history.
• Biryani: This flavorful dish features layers of spiced rice and marinated meat, often accompanied by fried potatoes and boiled eggs. Biryani is traditionally served during celebrations and gatherings, showcasing the vibrant spices of coastal cuisine. In Mombasa, local chefs put their spin on this dish, using fresh ingredients and unique blends that tell the story of the area’s diverse heritage.
• Ugali: A staple in Kenyan cuisine, ugali is a simple yet essential dish made from maize flour and water, creating a dense, dough-like consistency. It’s typically served with stews or vegetables and is integral to communal meals, allowing diners to scoop up their food, fostering a sense of togetherness.

Best time to go to Old Town Mombasa

Old Town Mombasa experiences its lowest average temperatures in July and August, at 76.5°F (24.7°C), while March is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.9°F (28.3°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Old Town Mombasa are January, July, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, May, September, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.