Mombasa is one of the most recognizable vacation destinations in Kenya. Its stunning white-sand beaches, warm Indian Ocean waters, and Swahili culture continue to lure holidaymakers from all over the globe.
From wandering the narrow streets of Old Town to sipping cocktails at luxury beach resorts, it’s no wonder Mombasa is known for a comforting tropical vibe.
But did you know Mombasa is also an ideal base for an exciting African safari?
Many visitors come for the beach but soon realize that they can visit Kenya’s amazing wilderness — and it’s not far from Mombasa! From the red-soiled plains of Tsavo to the sprawling grasslands of the Masai Mara, Mombasa gives you the best of both worlds.
In this guide, we will reveal the best safari destinations that can be reached from Mombasa — by road or by air — as well as top tips to help you plan your dream safari-and-beach getaway.
Why Start a Safari from Mombasa?
Mombasa is often visited for the coast, which is no wonder. After spending a few days on the sunny beaches of Diani, Bamburi, or Nyali, most people want to mix things up a bit. A safari is in order.
Mombasa is uniquely situated to provide easy access to some of the most well-known wildlife experiences in Kenya, which means you can mix both beach and bush on the same visit.
Here’s why a safari from Mombasa makes sense:
- Easy Accessibility: Mombasa is the birthplace of easy access as it has good road connectivity and daily air access to the major parks. To get to Masai Mara, from Mombasa, it’s only a 2-hour flight, or a 3-hour car ride to Tsavo.
- Two Holidays in One: Two different experiences, why settle for one when you can combine them both?
- Short or long experiencing: whether you have only a day or a week to get away, there are safari packages from Mombasa to suit your needs.
- Softer Crowds: Many visitors start their safari in Nairobi. Starting from Mombasa means fewer people at the parks, particularly Tsavo. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on honeymoon, or a family on vacation, starting your safari adventure in Mombasa is a convenient, stress-free choice.
Top Safari Destinations from Mombasa
Kenya is gifted with some of Africa’s most beautiful national parks and reserves. Some of the best safari destinations you can reach from Mombasa include:
1️. Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara is Kenya’s top safari destination. It is known around the world for its great wildlife, amazing sunsets, and the breathtaking Great Wildebeest Migration that occurs between July to October.
This park is home to Big Five- lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino as well as cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and many different bird species.
Reasons to Visit the Masai Mara from Mombasa:
- Great game drives with a good chance of seeing predators.
- Open plains are great for pictures of landscapes, animals, and sunsets.
- Interact with the Maasai people and learn about their culture.
How to Get There:
By air is the easiest and quickest way. Charter flights from Mombasa to the Masai Mara take roughly 2 hours and land at the airstrips inside the park.
The majority of flying safari packages include flights, transfers, accommodations, meals, and game drives.
2️. Tsavo East National Park
If flying is not for you – and you want a safari – Tsavo East National Park is your closest option. It is one of the largest and oldest parks in Kenya, covering an area of over 13,700 square kilometers.
Tsavo East is known for its red elephants, which are aptly called, as the elephants have a habit of bathing in the red dust of the park. You will also see lions, leopards, zebras, and many, many other creatures roaming the plains.
Why should you go to Tsavo East?
- Closest safari option via road from Mombasa
- Very good chances of viewing large herds of elephants
- Stunning landscapes and photo opportunities
How to get there:
By road, approximately 3 hours from Mombasa.
3️. Tsavo West National Park
West of Tsavo East is its equally scenic cousin, Tsavo West National Park, famous for its diverse landscapes, volcanic hills, and Mzima springs, with an underwater viewing chamber where you can get close to crocodiles and hippos.
Why visit Tsavo West?
- Breathtaking scenery featuring rolling hills, lava flows, and a variety of wildlife habitats.
- It is possible to see more leopards, cheetahs, and black rhinos here than at any other park.
- Can be paired with a trip to Tsavo East.
How to get there:
Approximately 4 hours drive from Mombasa.
4️. Amboseli National Park
Amboseli is the perfect destination if you have always dreamed of photographing elephants against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro.
Although the park is one of the most photogenic in Kenya and known for its elephant herds, Amboseli is renowned for stunning panoramic views of Kilimanjaro.
Reasons to visit Amboseli:
- Sunrise and sunset views of Kilimanjaro are breathtaking
- The elephants!
- Good birdlife and variety of habitats
How to get there:
By air from Mombasa – flight times are about 1 hour 45 minutes.
5️. Nairobi National Park
For a truly one-of-a-kind safari, take the plunge into Nairobi National Park, where you can observe lions, giraffes, and rhinos with the Nairobi skyline in the background.
It is perfect if you are connecting through Nairobi before or after your Mombasa visit.
Why go to Nairobi National Park?
- Unique urban safari experience.
- Combine with a visit to the Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
How to reach Nairobi National Park:
Fly from Mombasa to Nairobi in just 1 hour.
Flying Safaris to Masai Mara from Mombasa
Flying safaris are the ideal option for maximizing your wildlife experience while being time-effective.
Instead of taking, for example, a full day driving trip through Nairobi to reach the Masai Mara, you can fly from the coast straight to the Masai Mara.
What is included in a flying safari?
- Return flights from Mombasa to Masai Mara.
- Transfers from the airstrip to your camp or lodge.
- Full-board accommodation and guided game drives.
Why go on a flying safari?
- Fast, comfortable and stress-free.
- An ideal option for a short vacation.
- More time in the park and less time traveling
Flights will usually arrive into airstrips such as Keekorok, Serena, or Ol Kiombo.
Mombasa to Masai Mara Air Safaris
Most air safari packages begin with a 2-day, 1-night itinerary, but longer packages can also be arranged.
Example 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning flight from Mombasa to Masai Mara.
- Transfer to your lodge/camp.
- Afternoon game drive.
- Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2:
- Early morning game drive.
- Breakfast and relax.
- Mid-morning flight back to Mombasa.
Additionally, it is possible to book a 3-day or 4-day package if you would like to spend more time in the park. Some packages even offer hot air balloon rides or sundowner bush dinners.
Tips for Planning a Safari from Mombasa
Here are some expert tips to help ensure a seamless and enjoyable safari:
- Book Early: This is particularly important during the migration (July–October); lodges and flights fill quickly.
- Pack Light: Domestic flights have strict luggage limits (15kg per person, soft bags preferred).
- Spend Time Choosing When to Go:
- July–October: The wildebeest migration.
- December–March: The best weather for photography and viewing wildlife.
- Take the Essentials: Camera, binoculars, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, light clothes, and a sweater for cold mornings.
- Work with a Reputable Operator: Leave the details to the professionals and enjoy your adventure!
Why Combine Beach and Safari?
Kenya is one of the few locations in the world where you can go from snorkeling in the Indian Ocean to watching lions hunt on the African savannah — all in a single trip.
The combination makes a beach and safari style trip ideal for:
- Honeymooners: Romantic evenings on the beach combined with the excitement of nature’s drama and magnificent wild animals.
- Families: Something for everyone to enjoy – swimming, culture, and adventure.
- Solo travellers: See the best of Kenya in a variety of different settings and easily.
This combination illustrates the diversity of Kenya – the people, the landscape, and hopefully the wildlife will all contribute to making your holiday an unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
If you are going to Mombasa, be sure to check out Kenya’s wild side. Whether you visit the nearby Tsavo Parks, astonishing Amboseli, or the internationally renowned Masai Mara, you will remember each visit for a lifetime.
Reserve your flying safari to Masai Mara from Mombasa today and see why Kenya is the land of endless adventure – from the sand to the savannah!
