Best Day Trips from Mombasa – Top 7 Excursions You Can’t Miss
Mombasa is more than just a beach destination — it’s the gateway to unforgettable day trips and excursions that blend wildlife safaris, cultural encounters, and ocean adventures. Whether you want to spot the Big Five in Tsavo East, sail to Wasini Island with dolphins, or explore Shimba Hills’ lush forests, the best day trips from Mombasa are waiting to take you beyond the city’s white sandy beaches.
At Annest Kenya Safaris, we craft seamless Mombasa excursions that combine comfort, local expertise, and incredible wildlife sightings. Here are the top 7 excursions from Mombasa that every traveler should experience.
Tsavo East Safari from Mombasa – Red Elephants & Big Five in a Day
- Just 2–3 hours from Mombasa by road.
- Famous for its red-dusted elephants, lions, buffalo, and giraffes.
- Ideal for a one-day safari or an overnight trip.
- Includes game drives through open savannah.
Book your full-day Tsavo East safari from Mombasa with Annest Kenya Safaris and spot the Big Five in action.
2. Shimba Hills Safari – Kenya’s Closest Safari from Mombasa
- Only 45 km from Mombasa.
- Home to the rare sable antelope and spectacular Sheldrick Falls.
- A perfect half-day or full-day excursion for travelers short on time.
- Offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean from the hills.
Plan your Shimba Hills safari day trip with Annest Kenya Safaris.
3. Wasini Island Dolphin & Snorkeling Tour
- Sail on a traditional dhow across the Indian Ocean.
- Snorkel in the protected Kisite Marine Park, home to dolphins, turtles, and colorful coral reefs.
- Enjoy a freshly prepared Swahili seafood lunch on Wasini Island.
- Ideal for families, couples, and groups.
Join our Wasini Island dolphin tour and experience a magical day on the ocean.
4. Tsavo West Safari from Mombasa
- Known for its rugged landscapes, volcanic lava flows, and the beautiful Mzima Springs.
- Spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and elusive leopards.
- A great extension for those who want a wilder side of Tsavo.
5. Haller Park – A Family-Friendly Mombasa Excursion
- A wildlife sanctuary close to the city.
- Home to giraffes, hippos, giant tortoises, and crocodiles.
- Perfect for families with young kids who want an easy half-day excursion.
6. Tamarind Dhow Dinner Cruise
- A romantic evening sailing the Mombasa harbor.
- Live music, Swahili-inspired dining, and breathtaking views.
- Ideal for couples and honeymooners.
7. Fort Jesus & Old Town Mombasa Tour
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Fort Jesus, built in the 16th century.
- Walk through Old Town’s Swahili-Arab streets filled with history, spice markets, and architecture.
- Great cultural experience for history lovers.
From safaris in Tsavo and Shimba Hills to marine adventures at Wasini Island, the best day trips from Mombasa let you experience Kenya’s diverse wildlife, landscapes, and culture without long travel times.
Ready to explore beyond the beach? Book your Mombasa excursions today with Annest Kenya Safaris — your trusted guide to unforgettable adventures.
FAQs – Best Day Trips from Mombasa
The Tsavo East safari from Mombasa is the most popular, thanks to its Big Five game drives and accessibility.
Yes — the Wasini Island dolphin excursion is a full-day trip that includes sailing, snorkeling, and a seafood lunch.
Shimba Hills is only about 1 hour from Mombasa, making it the closest wildlife safari.
Yes! Options like Haller Park and Wasini snorkeling tours are perfect for families with kids.
Absolutely — many travelers enjoy Tsavo East or Shimba Hills safaris by day and return to relax at the beach resorts by night.
