About Fort Jesus Museum

This fort was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. It was made overlooking the Indian ocean so as to help the Portuguese keep an eye on the approaching ships from the ocean. It signifies the European colonization of Mombasa and was the first major structure built in the area. Fort Jesus, Mombasa, changed hands many times throughout its history, coming under Arab, Swahili and English control thus it has a rich history and culture!  It is overlooking the Indian ocean and is a must watch to get a glimpse of the history of Mombasa. It houses a museum which houses artifacts from the slave trade era. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort is an example of ancient Portuguese architecture and is in a dilapidated shape having borne the onslaught of the Arabs. Today it has a lovely museum and offers scenic views of the Indian Ocean. No trip is complete without adding a dash of history to it. Hard to bid adieu to Mombasa without visiting Fort Jesus.

Must See

 

  • An intriguing collection of archaeological artifacts from the fort, as well as Manda, Ungwana, Gede and other sites,
  •  the traditional tools
  • Amazing artifacts
  •  The preserved wall paintings from the Portuguese period 
  •  Italian architect Cairati designed structure, which is one of the world's finest examples of 16th-century Portuguese military architecture.
  • The view surrounding the Fort 
  • Remnants of the items used during wars between the Portuguese and the Omani Arabs
  •  A lot of information about the journey of Vasco da Gama in search of spices.
  • There is a water cistern, which the Portuguese used to harvest water and 76 feet deep well.
  •  A live butterfly exhibition, allowing you to learn more about the biodiversity among butterflies in Mombasa and their connections to the local communities.

How to reach

  • 1 h 57 min (9.5 km) via Malindi Rd/B8 by walking
  • 26 min (10.1 km) via Malindi Rd/B8
  •  A matatu ride starts from Ksh 20 just to go 500m 

    The price for a tuk-tuk ride is Ksh 50-100 and boda-boda around Ksh 50.

Tips

  • Best time to visit the Fort is morning 8 am to 10 am.
  • Take a guide for knowing the history of the place.
  • Witness the different culture.
  • Butterfly exhibition is one of its kind attraction there.
  • Unique view from different angles.
  • A small exhibition of Omani jewelry, weaponry, and other artifacts are lovely.
  • You need to pay an entrance fee to enter, and can opt either for a guide or to roam independently.
  • There is plenty to explore and many opportunities to take great pictures.
  • Better to hire one of the local guides to get a more informative tour.
  • Watch the Fort play host to a spectacular sound and light show 3 nights each week.

Visit Time

Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Monday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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Waiting Time

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Entrance Fee

Yes
  •  Fort Jesus Entry Fee is 1200 KES for non- resident adults
  • , 600 KES for a non-resident child,
  • 400 for East African adults,
  • 200 for East African Children,
  • 200 for Kenya citizen adults and
  • 100 for Kenya citizen children
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Time you can spend

3 hours

 

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Weather

Few Clouds 28.25°C

 

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