Mombasa , Kenya

Half-Day Scenic Bike Tour

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(77 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover Africa with Bike the Coast

Discover Africa by cycling off the beaten track.

See local people in their settlements and traditional African villages, palm- and mango-tree forests. Enjoy fantastic views on Creeks and the Mombasa North Coast area. Ride through the bush along the Indian Ocean or different climate zones.

Bike the Coast offers different guided half day bush-tours on safe unpaved roads and paths without traffic. With the mountain-bike you come closer to the local life than with any other means.

All equipment and refreshments are provided.

In price included:
• Use of mountain-bike with front-shocks
• Use of helmet and gloves
• Bottled drinking water, bananas for energy boost
• 1 Soda at the stopAt least 2 local guides per tour.

Under Swiss Management, we speak English and German.

Africa begins right behind your hotel - discover it.

Available options

Morning Tour

What's included

Local guide

Bottled water

Use of bicycle

Snacks

Use of helmet

What you'll see

A typical tour with "Bike the Coast" covers a distance of 23 - 31 km and takes about 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours of cycling on unpaved roads with no traffic.
• Each tour has a different level of difficulty, from 1 to 4.
• There are short cuts
• With every tour we stop at a local place to have refreshment.We have four standard tours:

Along The Coast

Scenery: Start and end in Mtwapa, an upcoming lively town. We ride leisurely through traditional African villages in palm-tree and mango forests. About a third of the tour follows the coast and at some places we can enjoy the view on the Indian Ocean.

Distance: about 40 km, short cut possible

Time needed: 4 to 5 hours

Altitude: total ca. 50 m

Difficulty: 1

Three Coastal Areas

Scenery: Three typical climate zones along the Coast: beach - palm-tree forest - semiarid area. Along the hotel area to some few upper class plots at the creek, local village, traditional Giriama village in a typical palm-tree-forest along the creek - crossing an arm of the creek. Spectacular view over the Mombasa North Coast.

Distance: 24 km, 2 km tarmac with no traffic short cut possible

Time needed: 3 to 4 hours

Altitude: total ca. 150 m

Difficulty: 1..2, two short but steep uphill stretches

Along The Creek

Scenery: Start and end in Mtwapa, an upcoming lively town. We follow the Creek inland and ride leisurely through traditional Giriama settlements in palm-tree forests and farms, here called shamba. Spectacular views of Mtwapa Creek and almost untouched bush-land.

Distance: 31 km, short cut possible

Time needed: 3 ½ to 4 ½ hours

Altitude: total ca. 150 m

Difficulty: 2

The Bike Adventure

Scenery: First we ride through palm- and mango tree forests with traditional African villages. Then we reach the semi arid area where we climb some hilltops and cross arms of the Mtwapa Creek. From a high hill we have an fantastic sight over the North Coast Area and different Creeks around Mombasa.

Distance: 24 km

Time needed: 3 to 4 hours

Altitude: ca. 350 m

Difficulty: 3..4, about 8 km single trail, short but steep up/down hill stretches

What You Bring
• T-Shirt and trousers
• Training shoes or other solid shoes
• Sun protection
• Head scarf (because you are using a rented helmet)

What's not included

Hotel pickup

Hotel drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

71 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Along The Coast Scenery: Start and end in Mtwapa, an upcoming lively town. We ride leisurely through traditional African villages in palm-tree and mango forests. About a third of the tour follows the coast and at some places we can enjoy the view on the Indian Ocean. Distance: about 40 km, short cut possible Time needed: 4 to 5 hours Altitude: total ca. 50 m Difficulty: 1 Three Coastal Areas Scenery: Three typical climate zones along the Coast: beach - palm-tree forest - semiarid area. Along the hotel area to some few upper class plots at the creek, local village, traditional Giriama village in a typical palm-tree-forest along the creek - crossing an arm of the creek. Spectacular view over the Mombasa North Coast. Distance: 24 km, 2 km tarmac with no traffic short cut possible Time needed: 3 to 4 hours Altitude: total ca. 150 m Difficulty: 1..2, two short but steep uphill stretches Along The Creek Scenery: Start and end in Mtwapa, an upcoming lively town. We follow the Creek inland and ride leisurely through traditional Giriama settlements in palm-tree forests and farms, here called shamba. Spectacular views of Mtwapa Creek and almost untouched bush-land. Distance: 31 km, short cut possible Time needed: 3 ½ to 4 ½ hours Altitude: total ca. 150 m Difficulty: 2 The Bike Adventure Scenery: First we ride through palm- and mango tree forests with traditional African villages. Then we reach the semi arid area where we climb some hilltops and cross arms of the Mtwapa Creek. From a high hill we have an fantastic sight over the North Coast Area and different Creeks around Mombasa. Distance: 24 km Time needed: 3 to 4 hours Altitude: ca. 350 m Difficulty: 3..4, about 8 km single trail, short but steep up/down hill stretches

Meeting point

Departure Point: Mombasa Go-Kart
Directions: You find us along Mombasa-Malindi Road, 1.5 km after hotel Whitesands, just next to the Petrocity station.
There is a big signboard with two flags on the mainroad.
Dates: See Availability

About Mombasa

Mombasa is a vibrant coastal city in Kenya, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and Swahili culture. It offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a popular tourist destination.

Top Attractions

Fort Jesus

A 16th-century Portuguese fort that played a significant role in the history of the Indian Ocean trade. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical 2-3 hours KES 1200 (USD 12)

Mombasa Marine National Park

A protected marine area with diverse marine life and coral reefs. It's perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Nature Half day KES 500 (USD 5)

Hallerr Park

A lush botanical garden with a variety of plant species, including orchids and palm trees. It's a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature 2-3 hours KES 300 (USD 3)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Biriani

A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian.

Ugali

A staple food made from cornmeal, often served with stews or vegetables.

Side Dish Vegetarian, gluten-free.

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, usually goat or beef, seasoned with local spices.

Main Course Contains meat, can be spicy.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Water sports Beach relaxation Spa treatments Sunset cruises Visiting Fort Jesus Exploring Old Town

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the best time to visit Mombasa due to the pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swahili, English
Widely spoken: Arabic, Various African languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Time Zone

EAT (UTC+3)

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Mombasa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Use reputable taxi services.
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services.

Getting there

By air

Moi International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Mombasa Central Station

By bus

Mombasa Bus Terminal, Likoni Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Matatus are the most common form of public transport in Mombasa. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Little

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Nyali Bamburi

Day trips

Watamu

100 km (62 miles) from Mombasa • Full day

A beautiful coastal town known for its pristine beaches, marine parks, and historic sites.

Diani Beach

30 km (19 miles) from Mombasa • Full day

A stunning beach destination with white sand, clear waters, and a variety of water sports.

Shimba Hills National Reserve

50 km (31 miles) from Mombasa • Full day

A protected area with diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and a variety of bird species.

Festivals

Mombasa Carnival • November Mombasa International Cultural Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit Fort Jesus early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the city's history and culture.
Carry small denominations for street vendors and markets.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.