Philip Mwakio
"Jambo and karibu sana (Hello and welcome)," were the kind words from two professional tour guides who ushered us into a nine-sitter van as we prepared for a tour of Mombasa.
Naima, the lead tour guide from Stoney Tours and Safaris, which specialises in safari packages and car hire services around East Africa, was going to be our host for the day.
A street in Mombasa Old Town.. [PHOTO: Omondi Onyango/STANDARD] |
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"We offer convenient and affordable packages for both local and foreign tourists coming to Mombasa," Naima said.
The tour around the city was to last about two and half hours. We started off from our offices located along the busy Moi Avenue and headed straight to the landmark elephant tusks for what has become a must photo shoot for visitors to this coastal town.
Fort Jesus Museum
And then it was time to visit Fort Jesus Museum located on the lower side of the Island. Our driver Ali Abdalah seemed to know Mombasa streets like the back of his hand and after going though the normal traffic pileups, we made our way to the entrance the museum. After clearing with the ticket booth, we took a leisurely walk round the various exhibition malls depicting the early history of Mombasa and how the Portuguese built the fort to protect their trade route to India and other interests in East Africa. Later, we visited the nearby Mombasa Old Town with its characteristic narrow roads. Also to be found in this area are goldsmith and curio shops and Hindu temples.
Through the narrow streets, we headed towards the Old Mackinon Market where one can sample tasty fruits; buy hand-woven baskets, sandals or even a kikoi.
Abdalah’s knowledge of all-important stops made it easier for us to take the best photos. According to the tour firm’s CEO, Said Dume, locals, particularly those from upcountry, are embracing domestic tourism.
"We handled a bigger number of local clients during the December holidays last year compared to previous years and this goes to show that many locals are taking up leisure travel here," Dume said.
Bush tour
And apart from such tours, the firm is also involved in organising the popular North Coast Bush tour. Here, one drives through the countryside to Kaloleni where there are several Mijikenda villages and huge plantations of palm trees. This is an opportunity to taste the famous mnazi (palm wine).
And after a drive through the cashewnut and mango farms, the tour ends with a stop for a late African traditional buffet lunch at Porini village at the North Coast.
