Hotels in Mombasa

Mombasa: Where Sunlit Shores Embrace Ancient Temples and Vibrant Coral Reefs

Mombasa, Kenya's vibrant coastal gem, beckons with its sun-kissed beaches and rich cultural tapestry. Explore the stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life, perfect for snorkelling or diving enthusiasts. Wander through the historic Old Town, where Swahili architecture meets bustling markets and inviting eateries. Don't miss the iconic Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells tales of the region's past. With luxurious resorts and comfortable stays dotting the coastline, Mombasa promises an unforgettable blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal getaway for beach lovers, culture seekers, and romantic souls alike. For our best hotel rates in Mombasa and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Mombasa

Some of the best places to stay in Mombasa are Nyali, Old Town Mombasa and Diani Beach. Mombasa offers diverse experiences for travellers. Nyali is known for its upscale resorts and vibrant nightlife, making it ideal for relaxation and fun. Old Town Mombasa showcases rich history and culture, perfect for exploration. Diani Beach is famed for its stunning coastline and water activities, great for beach lovers. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, with many offering spa services. For first-time visitors, Old Town Mombasa provides a captivating introduction to the region's heritage. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Mombasa:

1. NyaliOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, Nyali is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the sun at Nyali Beach, explore the historic Fort Jesus, or dive into the marine wonders at Mombasa Marine National Park. For accommodations, consider Cocoa Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that offers direct beach access and excellent business amenities, making it perfect for family vacations. Another option is Nyali Beach Holiday ResortOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel with a full spa and pool service, ideal for those seeking relaxation. Lastly, Voyager Beach ResortOpens in a new window, a 4-star resort, provides adventure sports and family-friendly amenities, ensuring an exciting stay.
2. Old Town MombasaOpens in a new window: Rich in history and culture, Old Town Mombasa is a treasure trove of historic sites, including Fort Jesus and various temples. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers. You can stay at Hotel English Point Marina & SpaOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel with direct beach access and a full spa, making it a great choice for relaxation. Alternatively, check out Lotus HotelOpens in a new window and Regency Park HotelOpens in a new window, both 3.5-star hotels that cater to business travellers with essential business amenities and dining options.
3. Diani BeachOpens in a new window: Renowned for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, Diani Beach is a slice of paradise perfect for beach lovers. It's also close to other beautiful beaches like Tiwi and Galu Kinondo. For a luxurious experience, consider Leopard Beach Resort & SpaOpens in a new window, a 5-star resort with direct beach access and comprehensive business facilities. Another great choice is Swahili Beach ResortOpens in a new window, also a 5-star hotel, which is family-friendly and offers various amenities for children. Both hotels provide a perfect blend of luxury and comfort for a memorable getaway.

Things to do in Mombasa for first times

Three days in Mombasa offer travellers the chance to unwind on stunning beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs, and immerse themselves in the local culture. Enjoy activities like swimming, sea diving, and fishing, or venture into nearby parks and forests for hiking and wildlife safaris, creating lasting memories in this coastal paradise. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Mombasa:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the pristine Diani Beach, where you can soak up the sun on the white sandy shores and enjoy some water activities. Afterward, take a short drive to Tiwi Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Here, you can relax or explore the tidal pools during low tide. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Kongo Mosque, a historic site that offers insight into the local culture and architecture of the region.
• Day 2: Start your day at Bamburi Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy a leisurely morning before heading to Haller Park, an ecological haven where you can encounter various wildlife in a beautiful natural setting. Don't miss the opportunity to feed the giraffes! Conclude your day at the Rabai Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the area, including its role in the Swahili culture and the arrival of Christianity.
• Day 3: Kick things off at Nyali Beach, a vibrant beach perfect for a morning swim or a stroll along the shore. Next, visit the historic Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reflects the area's colonial past. Explore its museum and enjoy the panoramic views of the harbor. Finally, spend some time at the Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, where you can unwind amidst nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful end to your day.

4 tips to find a great Mombasa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Mombasa is during May, September, and November when hotel prices tend to be lower. If you are an international traveller, it's advisable to book your flight at least 3 months in advance for more budget-friendly rates. For domestic travellers, aim to secure your flight at least 1 month ahead to enjoy great value for money. A stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended to fully explore the area’s key attractions, which include stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and historic temples. This way, you can make the most of your trip while keeping costs down.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for a spontaneous getaway, last-minute deals to Mombasa can provide excellent savings on accommodations. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to keep informed about sudden sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, increasing your chances of snagging the best hotel deal in Mombasa.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Mombasa.
4. Consider your location: When making reservations on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying nearer to key attractions or city centres may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you plan to visit.

Best time to go to Mombasa

Mombasa experiences its lowest average temperatures in July and August, at 76.5°F (24.7°C), while March is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.9°F (28.3°C). May is usually the wettest month. January, February, and December are the peak travel months in Mombasa, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with no to light rainfall. On the other hand, April to June tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.