Mombasa, Kenya’s vibrant coastal city, is a melting pot of cultures, history, and natural beauty. Its old town enchants visitors with narrow streets, ancient architecture, and the lingering scents of spices, while its beaches offer soft sands and tranquil waves.

The city pulses with life, from colorful markets and bustling matatus to modern malls and diverse cuisine. Mombasa’s charm lies in its ability to blend the past and present, offering travelers a unique experience filled with warmth, history, and adventure.

When I landed in Mombasa in 2022, I was unsure which part will be best to live in. All I wanted was the beach. Bamburi quickly became my choice. Bamburi, is a lively coastal area in Mombasa. It is known for its stunning beaches, bustling markets, and vibrant local culture.

The golden sands of Bamburi Beach invite relaxation, while the nearby shops and stalls offer everything from handcrafted souvenirs to refreshing roadside coconuts. With its mix of natural beauty and urban energy, Bamburi is a perfect spot for both tranquil beach therapy and adventurous exploration.

Here are a few things I did within a couple of days of enjoying the coastal life in what I consider Kenya’s second most influential city.

Bamburi Beach: A Therapy in the Sand

I arrived at Bamburi Beach without a swimsuit, but the roadside shops had everything anyone could need. Instead of diving into the waves, I freed my colorful Kenyan slippers and let the sand kiss my feet. The beach was warm, the breeze playful, and the waves whispered tales of hope.

As I walked, humming songs and offering prayers, I felt each splash against my feet like therapy for the soul. The waves reminded me of life’s rhythm—God’s endless grace, whether life’s tides are high or low.

The sand was soft, embracing my feet with every step, though the wind tangled my thick afro and sprayed salty water on my edges. By sunset, my hair felt brittle, but the joy of the experience was worth the rinse when I returned home.

Before leaving, I indulged in roasted corn by the roadside. Its charred aroma was familiar, a nostalgic bite that connected Kenya and Cameroon, though the freshness was not quite the same.

Market Adventures: A Pricey Lesson

My friend’s request for Kenyan beaded sandals took me deep into the buzzing Mombasa market. The stalls were alive with color and chatter, a labyrinth of treasures waiting to be found. I called my friend via video to pick her favorites. They heard my accent and knew I was a foreigner. “Four dollars,” they said, and I thought I’d struck a bargain. Proudly carrying my purchase, I stumbled upon another stall.

The sandals were a mere $1.50 there. I showed the new vendors my overpriced buy, and their laughter was contagious. Scammed three times in one market! Embarrassed but amused, I joined in their laughter.

A fresh roadside coconut soothed my thirst and my pride.

My advice? Always ask locals for price guidance—it’s wisdom I somehow ignored that day.

City Mall: Shopping Under the Sun

City Mall in Bamburi is a bustling hub of activity, offering a blend of modern shopping and cultural charm. From stylish boutiques and local craft stalls to rooftop treasures like handmade leather wallets and vibrant Kenyan art, the mall has something for everyone. Its open-air section, bathed in sunlight, showcases the creativity of local artisans, making it a perfect spot to shop for unique souvenirs while soaking in the lively coastal atmosphere.

City Mall had treasures of its own, from handmade leather wallets to vibrant Kenyan art. On the rooftop, I found a wallet so well-crafted that it remains in my pocket today, a souvenir of high quality at a surprisingly low cost.

Wooden sculptures, colorful clothing, and sandals filled the stalls. The open-air section glowed under the sun, each item a piece of Kenya’s vibrant culture.

Wandering Through Old Town Mombasa

Old Town in Mombasa is a captivating blend of history and culture, where narrow streets wind through centuries-old buildings adorned with intricate wooden carvings and balconies. The air is filled with the scent of spices and sea breeze, reflecting the town’s rich Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese influences.

Walking through its alleys reveals hidden gems like antique shops, historical landmarks, and bustling markets, each whispering stories of a bygone era. Old Town is a living museum, offering a glimpse into Mombasa’s vibrant past.

I heard a lot about this place and I was curious. Indeed, Old Town Mombasa is a page torn from history. The ancient houses stood proud, their intricate architecture whispering tales of the past.

The streets carried the scent of time, with every turn revealing a monument, a story, or a shadow of the past. The charm of Mombasa’s old town lies in its timelessness, a perfect counter to its bustling modernity.

I took a loud, colorful matatu bus, feeling like I’d been wrapped in a kaleidoscope. It was cheap and cheerful, though navigating Uber proved a challenge.

Fast Bites and Slow Discoveries

Hungry and curious, I tried KFC in Mombasa. The fries lacked crunch, and the chicken’s dough tasted oddly raw. Still, it filled my stomach, a quick fix for a traveler on the move. For a deeper culinary experience, I sought local Kenyan dishes.

Kenyan food is a flavorful fusion of indigenous ingredients and cultural influences, offering hearty dishes like ugali, sukuma wiki, and nyama choma. Fresh seafood is a coastal favorite, while inland regions highlight grains, beans, and rich stews. The vibrant use of spices and herbs adds a unique depth to Kenyan cuisine, making every meal a celebration of its diverse heritage.

A bowl of rice and chicken sauce welcomed me one day. Its thick, flavorful gravy mirrored my own recipes, though the spices carried an non-native mystery. Another day, the hotel receptionist convinced me to try ugali with egg sauce and vegetables. The fufu was different from Cameroon’s, heavier and less familiar. But the leafy garnish on my plate made the meal feel like art, and I savored the moment.

If you are not a picky eater like me, you’ll probably like Kenyan food.

Mombasa offered me waves, laughter, lessons, and tastes I’ll never forget. From the sands of Bamburi to the crowded alleys of its market, every corner sang a different song. Each step was a reminder of life’s surprises—sometimes salty, sometimes sweet, but always memorable.

If you enjoyed this glimpse into Mombasa’s vibrant culture and coastal life, be sure to check out similar posts on my blog for more travel insights, tips, and personal experiences. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply love exploring new destinations, there’s plenty more to discover. Click through and start your next adventure today!