Is Mombasa Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Mombasa is Kenya’s second-largest city and a seaport.

Mombasa is Kenya’s main tourist destination.

It is located on the Eastern coastline of Kenya bordering the Indian Ocean.

It is made it a popular destination for a beach vacation. Mombasa offers diverse marine life, world-class hotels, and a friendly atmosphere.

There is a tropical climate in the city all year; it is a great destination filled with activities for all ages.

There are interesting places for tourists, such as the Old Town, and the historical district is mainly turned into souvenir shops and restaurants; Colobus Trust nature walks and conservation volunteering at Diani Beach; many green parks and stunning beaches with clear water.

Warnings & Dangers in Mombasa

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Mombasa is not a safe city for tourists. Attacks happen in the area of the old town and often at night. It is not recommended to walk around the town after sunset and carry a lot of cash and jewelry.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Public transportation in Mombasa is not safe. Drivers may not be on schedule and may neglect traffic regulations. Criminals and pickpockets operate the buses. Taxi is secure if you call a licensed service, for example, recommended at your hotel. Make sure the driver turns on the taximeter.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

There are quite a few pickpockets in the city. Most often they operate in public transport, the old city and at tourist sites. Always keep track of your belongings and bags. Pickpockets work in pairs and often move very quickly.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Mombasa and the rest of the Kenyan coast have a moderate degree of tsunami hazard. The risk of natural disasters here is quite low. Before you travel to Mombasa, study weather and other conditions to avoid this risk.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Armed robberies happen very often in Mombasa, and tourists often become victims. If you were attacked for the purpose of theft - give everything that the criminal requires to save his life. Try not to shine on the street with expensive devices and money. This will attract the attention of intruders. While in the car, always close doors and windows. Also, always lock your home.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorists are very likely to carry out attacks in Mombasa. There is a heightened threat of terrorism, including kidnappings, across Kenya. Seizures, including terrorist hijackings, could target Westerners. Places of worship, including churches and mosques, have also been targeted. Be particularly vigilant in these areas.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

We can say that in Mombasa the risk of fraud is not very high. Most likely due to the fact that other, more serious crimes are common in the city. Minor fraud may be associated with the sale of tourists non-existent tours and excursions, as well as trinkets on the beach, which are not worth the money.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

Women are not recommended to travel to Mombasa alone. Avoid any contact with local men, do not walk late at night through the streets of the city. In general, even during the day, it is better to be in the company, preferably men. Sexual harassment is possible.

So... How Safe Is Mombasa Really?

Despite the great tourist attraction, the city is considered unsafe.

The crime rate is above average.

The main crimes are related to the theft of things, armed robberies, car thefts, insults, drug dealers, and corruption.

It is better not to drink tap water.

Boil it thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables.

It is also better to buy bottled water in supermarkets.

Robberies often occur in the area of the old city.

Carefully monitor your surroundings, visit only central tourist places and supermarkets, always close the doors of your hotel/house and park your cars in secure parking lots.

In this place, you should especially carefully monitor your belongings and surroundings.

Do not walk late at night in any area of Mombasa.

And especially in the suburbs or dimly lit streets.

In the city, there were recorded cases of murders of tourists when they did not want to give criminals what was required of them.

If you are attacked, give the attackers what they ask to save their lives.

Contact the police then immediately.

Choose only well-guarded hotels or houses for your trip.

It is best to take a taxi if you return late at night.

It is strictly not recommended walking around the city late at night and alone.

Women are not recommended to travel in Mombasa themselves.

How Does Mombasa Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Visitors to Kenya require a visa unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. Citizens of the 43 countries can visit Kenya with no visa for stays up to 90 days. All visitors must hold a passport valid for six months.

Currency

The shilling is the currency of Kenya. It is divided into 100 cents. It has a sign: KSh and a code: KES. The Kenyan shilling replaced the East African shilling in 1966 at par.

Weather

The best times to visit Mombasa for ideal weather are December to April. Average temperatures in Mombasa vary very little and the weather feels hot all year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year.

Airports

Moi International Airport is the international airport of Mombasa. It is located in Mombasa County in a township called Port Reitz and features regional as well as intercontinental flights. The airport is located 12 km from the city center.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Mombasa Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Kenya - Safety by City