Old Town and Marikiti Market Mombasa
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, intoxicating aromas, and rich history of Mombasa's Old Town and Marikiti Market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce and lively market
Old Town and Marikiti Market Mombasa
Best Time
Freshest produce and lively market
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, intoxicating aromas, and rich history of Mombasa's Old Town and Marikiti Market.
"A worthy stop point when visiting Mombasa, full of spices, nuts, dates, and friendly sellers."
Negotiate Prices Wisely
Sellers expect bargaining. Start lower and meet in the middle for great deals on spices and goods. :moneybag:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through narrow streets and market aisles. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marikiti Market's Spice Bazaar
Marikiti Market
A vibrant hub for exotic spices, nuts, dates, and fresh meats. The air is thick with aromas, and friendly sellers welcome negotiation.
Mombasa Old Town's Swahili Architecture
Mombasa Old Town
Wander through narrow streets lined with historic Swahili buildings, showcasing intricate carvings and a rich cultural heritage.
Authentic Yemeni Cuisine
Al-Diwan Arabian Food
Savor delicious and authentic Yemeni mandi, a flavorful rice and meat dish, in a welcoming atmosphere.
Mama Ngina Drive Views
Mama Ngina Drive
Enjoy scenic ocean views and a lively ambiance, perfect for a relaxed stroll or enjoying local snacks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Spice and Haggling
Old Town's Charm and History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Prices Wisely
Sellers expect bargaining. Start lower and meet in the middle for great deals on spices and goods. :moneybag:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through narrow streets and market aisles.
Try the Local Meats
Marikiti Market offers fresh camel, beef, and mutton. A must-try for meat lovers! :steak:
Capture the Colors
The vibrant spices and architecture make for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Prices Wisely
Sellers expect bargaining. Start lower and meet in the middle for great deals on spices and goods. :moneybag:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through narrow streets and market aisles.
Try the Local Meats
Marikiti Market offers fresh camel, beef, and mutton. A must-try for meat lovers! :steak:
Capture the Colors
The vibrant spices and architecture make for stunning photos.
Explore Guided Tours
Consider a guided tour for deeper historical insights and local experiences.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant sensory experience of Marikiti Market, praising the wide variety of spices and the friendly, negotiable sellers. Mombasa Old Town is lauded for its rich history and unique Swahili architecture, offering a captivating glimpse into the past. Some find the market crowded, and parking can be a challenge in Old Town.
"Interesting place full of an assortment of various spices, nuts, dates, groceries etc.
Reasonable prices and friendly sellers who embrace negotiation.
A worthy stop point when visiting Mombasa."
Henry Ochieng
"Along the municipal market. You can get meat of a camel, beef and mutton as well.
Do not forget to buy all sorts of spices ranging from tumeric, pepper 🌶, curry powder and other exotic scents just to spice your meat."
Stephen Gachucha
"Better space,inclusive kinda shopping place."
Daniel O Adwera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Old Town and Marikiti Market by taxi or matatu (local minibus). Many tours also include transportation. If driving, parking can be challenging in the narrow streets.
The Old Town has narrow, winding streets. It's best explored on foot. Consider a local guide to help you navigate and understand the history.
They are adjacent, so walking is the easiest and most immersive way to experience both.
Yes, matatus frequently pass by areas near the market, offering an affordable way to get there.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are available in Mombasa and can take you to the vicinity of Old Town and Marikiti Market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to both Mombasa Old Town and Marikiti Market is generally free. Some specific historical sites within Old Town might have small entrance fees.
Marikiti Market is typically open from early morning until late afternoon, with the busiest hours in the morning for fresh produce.
Old Town can be explored at any time, but visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better visibility of the architecture.
Yes, booking tours in advance, especially for guided experiences of Old Town, is highly recommended to secure your spot.
The Old Town itself is a living heritage area and does not have a general admission fee. Individual museums or historical buildings within it may charge a fee.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You can find a wide array of spices, nuts, dates, dried fruits, fresh produce, and various meats like camel, beef, and mutton. +1
Yes, negotiation is a common practice and expected by sellers. Be polite and friendly when bargaining.
Look for local eateries in and around Old Town for authentic Swahili dishes. Al-Diwan Arabian Food offers Yemeni cuisine.
Don't miss out on the diverse spices, fresh meats, and local Swahili delicacies. Yemeni mandi is also a popular choice.
Yes, some restaurants offer platters starting from around 1500 KES, perfect for sharing.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate Swahili architecture, carved wooden doors, narrow alleyways, and the vibrant street life.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their goods.
Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful natural light, creating a warm glow on the buildings and market stalls.
Be mindful of people's privacy. Avoid photographing individuals without their consent.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A smartphone camera is also excellent for candid shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the market can get crowded, so holding hands is advisable. Consider a shorter, focused visit to avoid overwhelming younger children. Look for guided tours that might offer a more engaging and structured experience for the whole family, highlighting historical aspects in a child-friendly manner.
💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring Old Town is free, and you can soak in the history and atmosphere without spending a dime. For meals, seek out local eateries away from the main tourist spots for authentic and budget-friendly Swahili cuisine. Matatus are the cheapest way to get around if you're not walking.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Marikiti Market offers a riot of color and texture, from vibrant spice mounds to fresh produce and bustling vendors. Remember to be respectful and ask permission before photographing people up close.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Mombasa Old Town
Key historical landmarks include Fort Jesus, a formidable Portuguese fortress built in the 16th century, and numerous mosques and temples reflecting the diverse religious heritage of the city. The atmosphere is palpable with history, and guided tours can bring these stories to life, highlighting the trade routes and cultural exchanges that shaped Mombasa.
Visitors often remark on the vibrant atmosphere and the sense of discovery as they wander through the labyrinthine alleys. It's a place where history is not just in museums but alive in the streets, the architecture, and the daily lives of its residents.
Marikiti Market: A Culinary Adventure
Beyond spices, the market is a prime spot for sourcing fresh meats, including camel, beef, and mutton, often displayed in impressive quantities.
For those looking to sample local flavors, Marikiti Market is a great starting point. While it's primarily a place to buy ingredients, the energy and sights are an experience in themselves. Nearby eateries and restaurants, like Al-Diwan Arabian Food, offer opportunities to taste dishes prepared with these very ingredients.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit