Kenyan Coast Holidays
Kenya, Africa
Where could be more exciting to visit than Mombasa? A great port city where many cultures from Europe, Arabia and beyond have left their mark, but life is underpinned by the heartbeat of Africa. Here you'll be able to enjoy windsurfing, golf, spa treatments and every other activity or creature comfort you'd expect from a standard beach holiday. Or, if you're looking for something a little bit different, you can try staying in one of the eco resorts that do their utmost to treat their workers well and make sure tourism benefits the wider community.
What to Do in Kenyan Coast
Mombasa is one of Kenya's top tourist destinations. There's plenty to see in the city itself, and around the coast you'll find numerous holiday resorts of all types, where Europeans go for a taste of luxury at an affordable price.
Fort Jesus is the main tourist sight in Mombasa. It was built by the Portuguese and was a centre for the slave trade. You can see the dungeons and torture chamber – they act as chilling reminders of the fate of thousands shipped from this coast. On a lighter note, Diani Beach is the best city beach – sunbathe, swim, or simply kick back with a beer. Mtwapa Creek is one of the country's top fishing destinations, and you can also enjoy mountain biking or bird watching here. You can also take a dhow safari on the waters, or sail out to Lamu Island to see the colonial mansion and enjoy the peace and quiet offered by this town – you can also explore the Lamu Archipelago.
Where to Stay in Kenyan Coast
If you don't want to stay in or around Mombasa itself, then Malindi is a great alternative. It has picture perfect white sand and blue seas, and plenty of accommodation to choose from. If you're mainly interested in a beach holiday but also want a short safari, then there are numerous ways to include a trip inland in your itinerary, including fly-in-fly-out safaris. Although you'll get the standard Western offerings in your resort, it's worth exploring the local food cuisine. You'll find Chinese and Indian restaurants, and you'll also be able to tuck into local fruit, seafood, and try some indigenous Swahili cuisine too.