A getaway to the idyllic beaches of Mombasa in Kenya

The Kenyan coast stretches for almost 400 km of beaches, nature and discovery. The country's second-largest city, on the same coast, is Mombasa. Situated on a 13 km² island, it is home to around 1.5 million inhabitants. The city centre is bustling with traffic, in contrast to the old town, which is discreet and peaceful. The city is linked to the north coast by a bridge over the Indian Ocean, while to the south you have to take the ferry, which runs several times a day. You'll have to be patient, as the queue to board the ferry can be long... Mombasa is a place where history meets modernity. This thriving port city is a major economic centre for Kenya, as well as a prime tourist destination for travellers from all over the world who come to enjoy the country's finest safaris.

The city's main point of interest is Fort Jesus, in the heart of Mombasa. Built by the Portuguese in the 17th century to protect the entrance to the city's port. Many stories of famine, betrayal and even murder have punctuated its existence. A huge ochre and pink citadel that dominates the old town, Fort Jesus is a reminder of the country's history.

Vasco Da Gama arrived in Mombasa in 1498. The Portuguese were not welcome. They decided to move further north to Malindi. But the Portuguese had not said their last word: they took Mombasa by force in 1593 and deemed it necessary to build a fort to defend the entrance to the port. Sailing under the flag of the Order of Christ, the name Fort Jesus was an obvious choice. Angular in shape, the fort was designed by an Italian architect from Goa.

Its history is quite eventful. It was in turn in the hands of the Portuguese, then the Arabs of Oman, and was eventually bombed by the British. Finally, in 1895, it became a government prison. Today, a row of cannons can be seen inside the ramparts, lined up in front of the main building. The main building houses a small museum containing artefacts from a shipwreck belonging to the Arab and Muslim peoples. There are also a number of displays on the life of the Kenyans, their village and their customs.

After visiting the fort, don't forget to continue on to the old town. It's a fairly quick walk, but there are plenty of picturesque little streets full of handicrafts to wander around.

You can also admire the balconies dating back to the colonial era. You'll notice that a curious mix of colonial, Swahili, Arab, Asian, Portuguese and British people live here, providing a glimpse into the city's eventful history.

And don't miss the Old Law Court Gallery, just a stone's throw from Fort Jesus. This former law court has been converted into a museum. The great hall, where trials were held in the past, has been very well preserved. Today, it is used by students. Inside, you'll find an exhibition of pretty outfits worn by Swahili men and women. Two rooms are devoted to the history of the Swahili people, one of which has an interactive computer.

Mombasa is a fascinating and dynamic city with a rich history and unique culture. It offers an incomparable tourist experience, from its historic monuments, beaches and nature reserves to its delicious cuisine. But when you set out to explore the city's surroundings, you'll be surprised by the stunning beauty of Kenya's coastline.

Indeed, outside Mombasa, there are many magnificent beaches, including Nyali, Bamburi and Diani. Water sports enthusiasts will not be disappointed: glass-bottomed boats, diving, sailing, kitesurfing, .... Diani beach, Mombasa's southernmost beach, is a hidden paradise. With its immaculate beach and crystal-clear water, lush vegetation and magnificent accommodation, this is a holiday filled with relaxation that awaits you along these shores, where you can even take a camel ride on the beach.

The beaches off the coast of Mombasa are an ideal setting to begin or end your stay in this magnificent country. With their enchanting scenery and coconut palms, they are still largely untouched by mass tourism, so you'll be far from the crowds. And the price of accommodation is unbeatable in such an idyllic setting. This is your chance to treat yourself!