population: 1.208 million

extension: 219.7 square kilometers

Museums

A great museum to visit while in Mombasa, Kenya is the Fort Jesus Museum. It is located on the edge of Old Town and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The museum showcases the history of Mombasa and the East African coast, with displays of artifacts from Portuguese, Arab, and Swahili cultures.

If you are interested in visiting other museums after seeing Fort Jesus, you may also want to check out the Mombasa National Museum, which has exhibits on natural history, culture, and art, as well as the Rabai Museum, which is dedicated to the history of Christianity in Kenya.

Food

Here are some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Mombasa, Kenya according to local people:

1. Biriani: a spiced rice dish often served with chicken or beef.

2. Maharagwe ya Nazi: kidney beans cooked in coconut milk and spices, typically served with rice or chapati.

3. Ugali and Sukuma Wiki: a staple Kenyan dish made of maize flour, served with a side of greens cooked with tomatoes and onions.

4. Grilled Seafood: Mombasa is a coastal city, so there's plenty of fresh seafood available. Try grilled prawns, lobster, or fish.

5. Swahili Pilau: a fragrant rice dish cooked with spices such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom, often served with meat or vegetables.

6. Mandazi: a type of fried doughnut that is a popular breakfast food in Mombasa.

7. Nyama Choma: grilled meat, usually goat or beef, which is a popular dish to share with friends over drinks.

Activities

Mombasa has a variety of fun activities that are popular among locals. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Mombasa Old Town: Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, where you can explore historic buildings and markets, taste local Swahili food, and shop for souvenirs.

2. Go to the beach: Mombasa is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Diani Beach, Nyali Beach, and Bamburi Beach. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, and trying out water sports activities like snorkeling or scuba diving.

3. Experience Swahili culture: Visit a cultural center or take a guided tour to learn more about the Swahili culture and traditions, including music, dance, and food.

4. Take a safari tour: Mombasa is close to several national parks and wildlife reserves, such as Tsavo East National Park, where you can see African elephants, lions, giraffes, and other wild animals in their natural habitat.

5. Enjoy local cuisine: Kenya has a vibrant food scene, and Mombasa is no exception. Try out local delicacies such as biryani, chapati, samosas, and fresh tropical fruits.