Christmas Beach Vacation
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Guided
Christmas Beach Vacation
Mombasa, city and chief port of Kenya, situated on a coralline island in a bay of the Indian Ocean. The island is linked to its mainland municipal territory of 100 square miles (259 square km) by causeway, bridge, and ferry and has an area of 5.5 square miles (14.25 square km). The town of Mombasa remained the center of the Arab trade in ivory and slaves from the 8th to the 16th century.
Depart from your beach hotel in the morning and drive to Mombasa. Begin the tour with a visit Akamba Woodcraft at Changamwe where you can see the craftsmen at work and select your carvings at the lowest price you can ever get in the world. The Baobab forest along Mama Ngina Drive before proceeding to Fort Jesus Museum built by the Portuguese at the end of the 16th century. Fort Jesus dominates the entrance to Mombasa Harbor and commands good views over the Old Town. The Fort is now a national monument and houses an interesting museum.
Walk through Mombasa the second largest city in Kenya and which is located on an island. It is a steamy, tropical, low-rise city with asymmetrical streets, languid pace, a diverse and intriguing population. It is mostly a Swahili town and women can be seen chattering by in dark bui-bui or wrapped in brilliant multicolored kanga.
Mombasa is also a port and a commercial center and has a long and complex history. Walk through the streets of Old Town up to the Old Port to see the Dhows. The old town is a maze of narrow streets, mosques and crowded buildings, some with impressive carved doors or intricate balconies.
Later visit the MacKinnon market, Elephant Tusks and Indian Temple before proceeding to enjoy lunch at the restaurant . In the late afternoon visit Haller Park, a former quarry now reforested and stocked with animals. Haller park in the afternoon where feeding of Giraffes starts at 3pm and Hipos at 4pm. Afterwards, transfer back to your hotel.
Christmas Beach Vacation Trip Highlights
- Pristine Beaches: Mombasa is known for its stunning beaches like Diani Beach, Bamburi Beach, and Nyali Beach. Spend your days relaxing on the soft, white sands and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
- Water Sports: Enjoy various water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and deep-sea fishing.
- Historical Sites: Explore historical sites like Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Old Town with its Swahili architecture, which provide insights into Mombasa's rich history.
- Local Markets: Visit local markets to shop for souvenirs, crafts, spices, and fresh produce. The Maasai Market is a great place to buy traditional Maasai items.
- Mombasa Marine National Park: Explore the Mombasa Marine National Park, where you can go snorkeling and view colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life. Nature Walks: Take nature walks in coastal forests like the Shimba Hills or Arabuko Sokoke
- Nature Walks: Take nature walks in coastal forests like the Shimba Hills or Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve to enjoy the natural beauty and possibly spot wildlife.
- Mombasa Island Tour: Explore the cultural and historical attractions of Mombasa Island, including the Old Town, Fort Jesus, and the spice markets.
- Visit Haller Park: Haller Park is a rehabilitated quarry that's now home to various animals, including giraffes, hippos, and reptiles. It's an enjoyable place for a family visit.
- Wasini Island: Visit nearby Wasini Island for snorkeling, dolphin watching, and enjoying the serene island life.
- Shimba Hills: Take a day trip to Shimba Hills National Reserve for hiking, a visit to Sheldrick Falls, and the chance to spot wildlife.
