Set on the spectacularly scenic coast of Kenya, Mombasa serves as both the name of the island and the city which inhabits it. Mombasa is the regional cultural, economic, and tourism centre of Kenya. The island is connected to the mainland by bridges for ease of access, and visitors can also hop on a ferry. It features East Africa's largest cosmopolitan port, which has a rich heritage as a historical trading centre. The Old Town boasts magnificent well-preserved Arabic architecture, vibrant markets, and winding alleyways all permeated with the scent of local spices. Visitors can explore the 16th-century Fort Jesus, which stands watch over the harbour; and visit the beautiful coral reefs and white-sand beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Located in Kenya's Coast Province, Tsavo West National Park stretches for over 9000 square kilometres and is one of Kenya’s most impressive parks. Tsavo West’s spectacular natural scenery includes volcanic cones, swamps, rocky outcrops and lava flows, mountains, river forests, plains, lakes, natural springs, and wooded grassland. The other-worldly, black, layering Shetani Lava Flows, named after the devil, spreads over the savannah. Other incredible natural attractions include the awe-inspiring Chaimu Crater; the Roaring Rocks, offering panoramic views; and the gorgeous Mzima Springs, the main source of water for the Tsavo River. Animal lovers will enjoy the chance to see highly endangered black rhinos at the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, and a list of other animals in the park including large herds of elephants, common waterbuck, eland, buffalo, gerenuk, fringe-eared oryx, impala, and Maasai giraffe.
