The Top 10 Markets In Mombasa, Kenya
Shopping in Mombasa is an exciting experience. This centuries-old city sits on an island off the main shore of Kenya, accessible only by boat and connected by bridges to the mainland. Here are 10 great markets to visit.
Old Town in Mombasa
The Old Town section of Mombasa contains a delightful collection of tourist-friendly shops and souvenir stands. Many of the shops reflect the history of the town, with Asian, Portuguese and Arab shops abounding. You can find many good bargains, from clothes and artwork to jewelry, spices and fragrances. The Fort Jesus that overlooks the harbor in Old Town is nearby and makes for a great historical spot.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Biashara Street
In downtown Mombasa on Biashara Street you’ll find a collection of shops for crafts and clothing items to suit summertime tastes. The kikoys and khangas, which are popular and colorful pieces of cloth to wrap around oneself, are sold here. There is a wide variety of other textile and clothing items, from slippers to curtains and scarfs. The area also contains restaurants and food stands to grab a flavorful meal.
Akamba Wood Carvers
Showcasing a deep talent for wood carving, the Akamba Wood Carvers market allows you to get an outstanding decoration item for a good price. The Akamba Wood Carvers is located on Airport Road near the airport in Mombasa. Inside, you’ll see the artists and carvers at work on a stunning variety of wood carvings depicting everything from animals to human society.
City Mall Nyali
City Mall Nyali
For visitors who want a relaxed shopping experience in a gorgeous environment, the City Mall Nyali offers a good retreat. You can choose a tasty Indian or Chinese-themed lunch from the numerous fine restaurants on the second floor of this seven-floor mall. For shopping, you can check out the fashion shops around the establishment, a selection which includes such renowned brands as Woolworths, Levi’s and Converse.
Bombolulu Workshops
Bombolulu Workshops
A visit to the Bombolulu Workshops is an eye-opening experience; this is a chance to see great artwork while supporting some of Kenya’s disabled artists. This place is run by a charity establishment to support the work and talent of the disabled. A large shop here houses a plethora of beautiful handicrafts and artwork, ranging from necklaces and wristband jewelry to wood carvings and leather items. You’ll also be able to get a local lunch onsite.
Workshop Road, Bombolulu, Mombasa, Kenya
A1 Supermarket
The A1 Supermarket on Hospital Street and Digo Road in Mombasa is one of the best venues for finding foodstuffs and buying local produce. Whether you need to find some good wine, cheese, in-season fruits or some supplies for throwing a party, the A1 has plenty of options. You’ll find plentiful supplies of Kenyan produce as well as some imported brands and snacks.
Coast Zanzibar Curio Shop
The Coast Zanzibar Curio Shop on Moi Avenue is great for finding crafts and souvenirs. This place makes a good spot for an afternoon visit, and is conveniently located next to the beach. A wide selection of items can be found, including leather bags, basket decorations, pictures and framed paintings. They also have selections of pretty jewelry including necklaces, pendants and earrings. For a small price here you can source something unusual and not available elsewhere.
Pirates Beach
Bar, Restaurant
Pirates Beach
The perfect venue for a day-trip, the Pirates Beach is great for basking in the sun and swimming on the breaking waves of the Indian Ocean. A trip here brings the shopping to you, as you’ll find many vendors and hawkers that sell their wares on the beach. You can buy colorful hats and clothing items while you watch the scenic waves. When not hunting for the best bargain items, you can also get a taste of the fine seafood and beer for sale along the beach.
http://instagram.com/p/BGo79t8QnVr/?tagged=nyalicinemax
Nyali Cinemax
Nyali Cinemax
The Nyali Cinemax shopping mall is great for shopping and grabbing a festive meal with friends. You can buy some great jewelry in the mall, as well as some luxurious fashion items ranging from wristwatches and shoes to hats and jeans. The cinema makes for an entertaining time after you’ve finished shopping, and is one of the best in Kenya. You’ll be able to sit in for all of the latest Bollywood and Hollywood releases.
Marikiti Market
For a great Kenyan shopping experience, head out to Marikiti Market in the city. This bustling market makes for a thrilling outing, and you’ll find plenty of great souvenirs and artwork to make the trip worthwhile. You can also get Kenyan clothes along with cloths and khangas of a stunning variety that you might not get elsewhere. There are numerous places to get food along the way, with street food being a popular and tasty option.
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.
KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
