Mombasa Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Pre-planning builds a delightful trip.

Planning Timeline

Follow this guide for a stress-free experience.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months, 2 blank pages). Research and apply for your Kenya e-Visa.

Health & Vaccinations

Consult doctor for required and recommended vaccinations, including Yellow Fever, and malaria prophylaxis.

Flights & Insurance

Book international flights and purchase comprehensive travel insurance including emergency medical evacuation.

-2 Months Before

Accommodation & Tours

Book your accommodations and any major tours or safaris you plan to take.

Permits & Luggage

Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to self-drive. Check luggage allowances.

Packing List

Start a detailed packing list for your journey. A comprehensive Packing organizer can be useful.

-4 Weeks Before

Confirmations & Banking

Confirm all your bookings: flights, hotels, tours. Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

Documents & Gear

Make copies of essential documents. Purchase necessary Travel gear, like a power adapter and insect repellent.

Offline Resources

Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps) and translation apps (e.g., Google Translate Swahili pack).

Important Bookings

Secure these items well in advance for your trip.

Main Reservations

Flights (both international and domestic).
Your Kenya e-Visa.
Accommodation.
SGR train tickets (Mombasa-Nairobi) if planning to use the train.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Further steps to enrich your journey.

Research and Readiness

Read widely available travel guides and blogs specific to Mombasa and Kenya.
Familiarize yourself with basic Swahili phrases.
Gain an understanding of local customs and etiquette to confirm respectful interactions.
Review safety advisories issued by your government.

Home Preparation Before Departure

A calm return starts with a prepared home.

Home Security

Secure your home by locking all doors.
Ensure all windows remain closed and locked.
Consider smart lighting or timers for a lived-in appearance.
Stop mail or arrange for collection.

Pet and Plant Care

Arrange for pet care while you are away.
Ensure plants receive water as needed.
Check for any dripping faucets before leaving.
Confirm arrangements with caregivers.

Household Maintenance

Pay any bills coming due during your travel.
Empty trash bins to avoid odors.
Clean out your refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Final Check

A well-prepared departure leads to a relaxed journey. Account for every detail.

Arrival Checklist

These steps make for a smooth transition upon arrival.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration Procedures
Complete immigration procedures at Moi International Airport (MBA). Have your passport and e-Visa printout ready.
2
Luggage and Customs
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim. Clear customs promptly.
3
Airport Transfers
Proceed to your pre-arranged transfer or the official taxi stand. Do not engage with unofficial touts inside the airport.

Orientation Strategies

Check-in and Settle
Check into your accommodation. Take time to unpack and settle in.
Local Recommendations
Ask hotel staff for local recommendations, safety tips for the neighborhood, and directions.
Maps App Usage
Use your maps app to get a sense of your location relative to attractions and transportation routes.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Initial Exchange

Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport upon arrival.

While rates may not be the best, it brings immediate local currency.

City ATMs

Locate ATMs in the city or resort area for larger withdrawals once you are settled.

These are often easy to find.

Bottled Water

Purchase bottled water immediately.

Tap water is not safe to drink.

Smooth Landing

A strategic arrival plan builds a foundation for a pleasant trip.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make a smooth exit from Mombasa.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping, especially if visiting Bombolulu Workshops or Akamba Handicraft.
If you plan to ship large items home, confirm arrangements with the vendor or a reputable freight forwarder.
Do this well in advance of your departure.
Keep receipts for important purchases.

VAT Refund Procedures and Pre-Departure Timing

VAT refund for tourists is not widely available or commonly practiced in Kenya.
For very large purchases, confirm with the specific store if they participate in any export refund schemes.
For international flights, arrive at Moi International Airport (MBA) 2-3 hours before departure.
If traveling by train, arrive at the Miritini Terminus 30-45 minutes before departure for security checks.

Return Trip Preparation

Organize your exit for seamless travel.

Departure Checklist

Reconfirm flight detailsCheck times and terminal.
Pack strategicallySafeguard fragile souvenirs.
Documents accessiblePassport and boarding pass ready.
Currency managementAccount for remaining local currency.

Last Minute Tips

Check current weather forecasts for your departure day.
Confirm all devices are fully charged for travel.
Inform your emergency contacts of your updated travel plans.
Have contact information for your accommodation and transport ready.

Farewell Mombasa

A well-executed departure brings warm memories.

Your journey concludes with ease and satisfaction.

Mombasa Travel Checklist