Mombasa Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

Information on local SIM cards and mobile network providers.

Getting Connected

Safaricom (widest coverage) or Airtel, Telkom Kenya.
Purchase SIM at airport or retail outlets (passport required).
Ensure your phone is unlocked for a local SIM card.

Consider Airalo for eSIMs or Solis Wi-Fi for portable devices.

Internet & Language

Details on Wi-Fi availability and navigating language differences.

Access & Communication

Complimentary Wi-Fi at most hotels/resorts.
English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Swahili is the national language; many speak it.

Explore Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Essential Phrases for Travelers

Learn some fundamental Swahili phrases for smoother interactions.

Basic Swahili Greetings & Courtesy

Hello (general): Jambo! (JAHM-boh)
How are you?: Habari? (hah-BAH-ree?)
I am fine: Nzuri sana (nzoo-ree SAH-nah)

Awareness of communication norms enriches your experience.

Important Considerations

Greetings preface conversations.
Google Translate with offline packs is helpful.
Kenya Post Office branches available for mail.

Additional Communication Points

Phrases Continued

Thank you: Asante (ah-SAHN-teh)
Please: Tafadhali (tah-fah-DHAH-lee)
Yes / No: Ndiyo / Hapana
Excuse me/Sorry: Samahani

Important Information

Public Wi-Fi networks are limited and less secure.
Postal services may operate slower.
Mobile data with a local SIM is reliable.
Addressing elders with "Mzee" (men) and "Mama" (women) shows respect.

Quick Communication Tip

An unlocked phone for a local SIM card streamlines communication during your travels.

Business Hours & Schedules

An overview of typical operating hours and public holidays in Mombasa.

Government Offices

Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM.

Shops & Supermarkets

Typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM.

Restaurants

Many open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM or later.

Banking & ATMs

Find out about bank operating hours and ATM access.

Financial Services

Banks: Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Some branches open Saturday mornings (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM).
ATMs are widely available and operate 24/7.

Holiday Impact

Know which religious and public holidays might affect services.

Holidays

Major Public Holidays (e.g., New Year's Day, Christmas).
Islamic Holidays (Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha) dates vary.
Christian Holidays (Good Friday, Easter Monday).

Seasonal Variations

Long Rainy Season April-June

Some smaller establishments may reduce hours.
Potential temporary closures due to lower tourist numbers.
Always confirm operating hours during this time.

Market Hours

Markets open early morning.
Continue operating until late afternoon or early evening.
Local vendors typically available throughout the day.

Planning Ahead

Always confirm operating hours for specific businesses, especially during holidays or off-season, to avoid inconvenience.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigating local customs and cultural practices in Mombasa for respectful interactions.

Greeting & Attire

Learn about traditional greetings and appropriate dress codes.

Cultural Pointers

Always greet locals first ("Jambo" or "Habari").
Dress modestly outside resorts, especially in Old Town.
Address elders with "Mzee" (men) and "Mama" (women).

Dining & Photography

Understand local dining customs and photography guidelines.

Dining & Photo Conduct

Eat with your right hand in local eateries.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals.
Do not photograph government buildings or military sites.

Sensitive Topics & Bargaining

Be aware of subjects to avoid and the art of respectful bargaining.

Navigating Interactions

Avoid sensitive political or religious discussions.
Bargaining is customary in markets; do so respectfully.
Approach haggling with a smile and avoid aggression.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Awareness

Understand local societal attitudes regarding gender and LGBTQ+ matters.

Societal Norms

Women traveling alone may experience more attention.
Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya; avoid public displays of affection.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

Important Societal Notes

Gender Considerations

Dressing conservatively can reduce unwanted attention.
Kenyan society holds conservative views.
Unsolicited comments might occur.

LGBTQ+ Information

Social attitudes are largely conservative.
Travelers should exercise discretion.
Public displays of affection are not advised.

General Interaction Advice

Politeness & Openness

Handshakes are common, sometimes prolonged.
A simple smile and nod go a long way.
Patience for "Kenya time" is valuable.

Cultural Sensitivity

Do not point with your feet; it shows disrespect.
Never offer money for a photo.
Respect cultural groups who prefer no photos.

Cultural Respect Tip

Respect for local traditions creates a richer journey and more positive interactions with the community.

Accessibility Information

Details on accessibility considerations for travelers with specific mobility or sensory needs.

Infrastructure & Transportation

An overview of Mombasa's infrastructure regarding mobility access.

Challenges and Solutions

Uneven or non-existent sidewalks are common.
Public transport generally lacks accessibility features.
Pre-arranging private vehicle transfers is recommended.

Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access, and Compensair for flight disruptions.

Support Services

Information on services for visual or hearing impairments.

Limited Availability

Specialized services are generally limited.
Guide dogs are not commonly accepted in public places.
A travel companion or pre-arranged interpreter is advisable.

Accessible Attractions & Resources

Potentially Accessible Sites

Modern Malls/Hotels: Nyali Centre, City Mall (ramps, elevators).
Haller Park: Some paths are relatively flat.
Ride-sharing apps: May offer larger vehicle options.

Finding Information

Research hotels explicitly advertising accessible services.
Contact local disability organizations for specific advice.
Always verify information directly with providers.

Accessibility Planning Note

Confirm accessibility features directly with hotels and tour operators before booking for a smoother trip.

Mombasa Travel Tips