mombasa

mombasa, Kenya’s second largest city

…and sometimes called the blue and white city. As it’s blessed with long, uninterrupted white sand beaches, that provide a home for an abundance of wildlife on shore and coral reefs in the azure Indian ocean. Today this environment lures travelers from far and wide.

But in years gone by, this stretch of coastline was cursed with an enviable location, featuring natural harbours and creeks that acted like magnets to early conquistadors. And that spelt trouble for Mombasa and its residents.

Looking over another creek to Mombasa Island

One of Mombasa’s many creeks

First


…it was the Portuguese led by Vasco De Gama. Trying to protect their vast maritime empire and the newly discovered and lucrative trade routes between Europe, the Indian ocean and beyond.

Then it was the Omani’s that took control before the British arrived and were ultimately booted out in 1963. And we’ll leave it there…

History lesson over.

But, what these tumultuous periods did, was etch into Mombasa a unique and lasting cultural, visual and gastronomic tapestry for people to enjoy and explore today.

Looking out over Mombasa

THINGS TO SEE

…and do

  • 16th-century, coastal fort built by the Portuguese that’s one of Mombasa’s most distinguishing cultural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage.

    Visit website

  • Not for the faint-hearted.

    But so rewarding should you be inclined. This place is an assault on the senses – the sights, sounds, smells and history that this place elicits is captivating. If you really like to travel… then go. It’s incredible.



    Map

  • Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects and encourages ancient craftmanship in the design of it’s buildings, its streets, its arts and its crafts. A magical blend of Swahili and Islamic culture.

    Try not to miss this one..! 




  • Another UNESCO World Heritage site that was an important trading center along the Indian trade routes. Today, you can wander through these archaeological ruins whilst spending some quality time with the local inhabitants, the blue monkeys.

  • Head north towards Mtwapa and you’ll find these ancient Swahili ruins. Easier to get to than Gedi but just as rewarding.

    There’s also the added reward of the creek itself which is beautiful and teeming with life and a pretty decent café for light food and refreshments.



“mom-bas-aaaa…
Even saying it sounds nice, don’t you think? it just rolls off the tongue”

GD - Ireland

a final word

Kenya
The cradle of humanity

So, we’ve only talked about relics you can see and explore from the last 5 to 600 hundred years or so and they’re cool. They’ll expand your mind, your knowledge and your photo album (be it digital, physical or metaphysical).




But if you come here, you’re coming to the cradle of humanity. You’re coming to the place where the story of our collective evolution begins. Where your story ultimately began. What a journey.

But enough about history for now.



Next, Nyali and its culinary arts.



Your home. Your base. Should you choose to join us.