Join us on a safari holiday to Mombasa
Mombasa holidays mean sun, sea, and safari.
With the city’s idyllic beachside hotels, friendly, helpful staff, and all the food and drink you could want, you’ll return home feeling pampered, even after the wildlife excursion of a lifetime on a Mombasa safari holiday.
This region of Kenya is known for having plenty of opportunities to see the Big Five, just one reason why it makes the holiday wish list for countless travellers. And it’s not just the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see these majestic animals in the African wilderness that makes a Mombasa safari holiday so incredible – the city’s vibrant character and picturesque beaches make it a wonderful destination in itself. Add in the all-inclusive treatment, and you’ll be in heaven.Your beach and safari holiday will be a little more work than lounging on the sand, but you’ll still be staying in luxury lodges at night – the perfect spot to rest in comfort after a day of excitement and wonder.
Whether you’re feeling the sand between your toes or watching animals come to the watering hole from your sumptuous accommodation, Newmarket Holidays will have done all the work so you can focus on enjoying yourself.
Things to do on a Mombasa safari tour
When it comes to things to do on a Mombasa holiday you’re spoilt for choice. Whether your dream trip involves diving into a beach read under a sizzling sun, being dazzled by the incredibly diverse landscapes and wildlife that a Mombasa safari has to offer, or feeling like royalty in one of many all-inclusive environments you’ll be staying in, then you’re sure to enjoy your Mombasa beach and safari holiday. With that said, there are some things you simply cannot miss while holidaying in the East African country.

Watching animals quench their thirst at the watering hole
With Newmarket Holidays you’ll have a spot at the five-star Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge. This unique accommodation balances on stilts above a number of watering holes, which are floodlit after dark so you can watch the local wildlife congregate. With sweeping views, candlelit dinners in the dining room, and hot and cold drinks available throughout the night, there are few experiences both this mesmerising and this comfortable.

Explore Mombasa
You’ll have plenty of time to explore the gorgeous coastal city while on your Mombasa holiday. From the oceanside drink and dining options, to the ancient architecture of the Old Town – including the impressive archaeological site of Fort Jesus Museum – there are countless ways to spend your time in Mombasa. And, best of all, it’s small enough that you’re never too far from your accommodation.

Marvel at the Big 5 in Tsavo West National Park
While Mombasa has its charm, there’s no doubt the highlight of a visit to this region of Kenya is the chance to head to Tsavo West National Park. On your Mombasa safari tour you’ll traverse across vast savannah grasslands, wild scrubland and expansive plains full of otherworldly volcanic cones, like at the Shetani Lava Flow. The best part of all of this diversity is the sheer range of animal and birdlife it houses, giving you the chance to have a truly unique experience, including the opportunity to see the Big 5: lions, leopards, black rhinoceroses, African bush elephants, and African buffalos.
Things to see on a Mombasa safari holiday
The wild expanse that forms Tsavo West National Park is full of incredible animals that will make your Mombasa safari linger long in the memory. The sprawling space is also home to some of the most unique and beautiful natural scenescapes in this vast, diverse continent. While staying in the park in your luxury accommodation you’ll be treated to stunning sunsets and brilliant star shows. The city is also full of things to see, with its charming old town and the intriguing Fort Jesus Museum to explore, as well as the tranquil Haller Park.
Food and drink on a Mombasa safari tour
On your Mombasa safari and beach holiday, the food and drink matches your sublime surroundings. Your all-inclusive stay by the Indian Ocean means mouth-watering options at your fingertips, as well as the opportunity to try local restaurants. On safari you’ll be treated to local dishes that utilise ingredients from the surrounding areas to create flavours that are unlike anything you’ll have had before. A healthy mix of grains, greens, and native game make up most of what the locals eat, and you’ll be getting all that flavour and more during your Mombasa holiday.
As Mombasa is a tourist destination, it has a reputation as a melting pot of Kenya’s various culinary traditions. The country is home to numerous ethnic groups, huge tracts of arable land, a lengthy coastline, and a diverse weather system. All of this means you’ve got the recipe for something special. With that said, there are definitely some dishes that are enjoyed all across the country – like nyama choma, grilled meats – but each region tends to have its own favourites.
One thing you’ll definitely have to try on your Mombasa holiday is ugali, a thick porridge that’s made from cornflour, which you can shape into a ball and use as a tasty mop for stew-like dishes. Then there’s other unforgettable dishes, like irio and githeri, both packed full of flavour, as well as all the food influenced by the city’s large Indian population. And, of course, you must treat yourself to the local coffee and Kenyan chai.

Frequently asked Mombasa safari questions
Here are a few questions you might have.
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How should I dress in Mombasa?
While Kenya isn’t as conservative as some other countries in the region, it’s still best to cover up when walking around – not only out of respect, but because loose, long clothing will protect you from the sun and heat.
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How far is the safari from Mombasa?
The wildlife is practically on Mombasa’s doorstep. The nearest wildlife sanctuary is about a 22-mile drive from the town. However, Tsavo West National Park, the most impressive and diverse area for safari, is around a five hour drive away from the coast.
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Are there elephants in Mombasa?
There are lots of elephant populations in the areas surrounding Mombasa, so if you want to see the majestic creatures then this is the place to head.
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Is Mombasa good for a holiday?
Mombasa is a wonderful place to go for a holiday thanks to its blend of proximity to the safari, intriguing cultural highlights, and luxury oceanside accommodation.
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Is Mombasa prone to malaria?
Yes, there is a risk of malaria if you visit Mombasa without taking the proper precautions. However, as long as you speak to your GP and make sure you take the right medication, it’s a negligible risk.
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How many days do you need in Mombasa?
It really depends on what you want to do. If you’re the sort of person who’s itching to do activities while on holiday, 3-5 days is enough, but if you love relaxing on the beach and having your every whim catered to by friendly, helpful staff, then it’s worth staying a fortnight.
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