Mombasa Old Town Market: 10 Things to Do in Mombasa, Kenya
Mombasa, Kenya is a vibrant and historic port city on the Indian Ocean. It’s home to a lively Old Town Market, where visitors can find everything from souvenirs and spices to traditional crafts and clothing. Whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience or simply want to explore a fascinating part of the city, the Mombasa Old Town Market is a must-visit. Here are 10 things to do in Mombasa Old Town Market.
1. Explore the Bazaars
The Mombasa Old Town Market is home to an array of bazaars, where you can find everything from spices and crafts to clothing and souvenirs. The bazaars are bustling with activity, and you’ll find plenty of interesting items to explore.
2. Shop for Local Crafts
The Mombasa Old Town Market is a great place to find unique and traditional crafts. Look for hand-crafted jewelry, pottery, and textiles. You can also find items made from local materials, such as carved wooden boxes and baskets.
3. Haggle for Bargains
Haggling is a common practice in the Mombasa Old Town Market. Don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price on items, as this is part of the experience. Just be sure to stay friendly and respectful when bargaining.
4. Sample Local Cuisine
The Mombasa Old Town Market is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, where you can sample traditional Kenyan cuisine. Try dishes like ugali (a maize-based porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), and mandazi (fried dough).
5. Visit the Fort Jesus Museum
The Fort Jesus Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Mombasa. The museum is located in the Old Town Market and houses a collection of artifacts from the 16th century Portuguese fort.
6. Take a Dhow Cruise
A dhow cruise is a great way to explore the coastline of Mombasa. You can take a cruise around the Old Town Market, or venture further afield to explore the nearby islands.
7. Visit the Old Town
The Old Town of Mombasa is a fascinating part of the city. Here, you’ll find narrow streets lined with old buildings, mosques, and markets. Be sure to visit the Old Town Mosque, which dates back to the 16th century.
8. Go to the Beach
Mombasa is home to some of the best beaches in Kenya. Take a trip to Nyali Beach, which is located just north of the Old Town Market. Here, you can relax on the white sand and take a dip in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
9. Take a Tour of Mombasa
There are a number of tour companies in Mombasa that offer guided tours of the city. These tours will take you to all the major attractions, such as the Old Town Market, Fort Jesus Museum, and Nyali Beach.
10. Have a Drink at a Rooftop Bar
For a unique experience, head to one of the rooftop bars in Mombasa. Here, you can enjoy a drink with a view of the city and the Indian Ocean. Be sure to try the local beer, Tusker.
Mombasa Old Town Market is a vibrant and fascinating part of the city. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, sampling local cuisine, or simply exploring the city, there’s plenty to do in the Mombasa Old Town Market. From bargaining for bargains to taking a dhow cruise, make sure you experience all that the Mombasa Old Town Market has to offer.