Moi International Airport sits approximately 20 km west of Mombasa city center, connected by taxi along the main Mombasa-Nairobi highway. The journey takes 25-40 minutes through Kenya's second-largest city and principal coastal metropolis.

About Mombasa City Center

Mombasa is Kenya's oldest city and the gateway to the Indian Ocean coast, a vibrant port city where Swahili, Arab, Portuguese, and British influences create a unique cultural tapestry. The Old Town, a maze of narrow streets lined with intricately carved wooden doors, ornate balconies, and coral-stone buildings, preserves centuries of trade and cultural exchange between Africa, Arabia, and India.

Fort Jesus, a 16th-century Portuguese fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, guards the entrance to the Old Harbour and houses a museum documenting the coastal region's turbulent history of conquest and commerce. The fort's coral-stone walls, designed by Italian architect Giovanni Battista Cairati, overlook the dhow harbour where traditional sailing vessels still operate.

Mombasa Island, connected to the mainland by bridges, is crowned by the landmark Mombasa Tusks — giant aluminum tusk arches spanning Moi Avenue, built in 1956 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth's visit. The city's diverse religious heritage is visible in the Mandhry Mosque, the Lord Shiva Temple, and the Holy Ghost Cathedral, often within the same street. North and south of the island, the pristine white-sand beaches of Nyali, Bamburi, Diani, and Shanzu draw tourists and form the backbone of Kenya's coastal tourism industry.

Nearby Landmarks

Fort Jesus Mombasa Tusks Old Town Nyali Beach

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. At Moi International Airport arrivals, proceed to the taxi area outside
2. Negotiate a taxi fare to Mombasa city center (KSh 2,000-3,000, about $15-22)
3. The drive takes 25-40 minutes via the Mombasa-Nairobi highway
4. For Old Town/Fort Jesus, request drop-off at Nkrumah Road or the fort entrance
5. For Nyali Beach area, cross the Nyali Bridge (additional 15 minutes)
6. Matatus (minibuses) run from the airport road but are not practical with luggage

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis and boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) operate 24 hours in Mombasa, though availability decreases after 10:00 PM. Negotiate taxi fares before departing (KSh 2,000-3,000 to city center, about $15-22). Ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Uber) have limited coverage in Mombasa compared to Nairobi. Most beach resorts north and south of the city offer airport transfer services. Avoid walking in unfamiliar areas at night.

Luggage Tips

Mombasa taxis can accommodate standard luggage. If heading to beach resorts north (Nyali, Bamburi) or south (Diani) of the island, arrange hotel transfers in advance as they know the routes and can handle luggage. The Likoni Ferry for the south coast requires walking with luggage from the vehicle side — keep bags close and manageable. Tuk-tuks are common for short trips but impractical with large luggage.

Accessibility

Moi International Airport has basic accessibility facilities. Mombasa city infrastructure presents significant challenges for wheelchair users — sidewalks are often missing or obstructed, streets are uneven, and public transport has no accessibility features. Beach resorts, particularly higher-end ones in Nyali and Diani, are more likely to have accessible facilities. Fort Jesus has some accessible areas on the ground level but upper sections require stairs.