| Activity |
Long Dry Season Jun–Oct |
Short Wet Season Nov |
Short Dry Season Dec–Feb |
Long Wet Season Mar–May |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Holidays | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Fair |
| Snorkeling & Diving | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Fair |
| Cultural Events | Good | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Travel Value | High | Excellent | High | Excellent |
The coral reefs off Mombasa are spectacular year-round, but the best time to go to Mombasa for diving and snorkeling is July – September and January – February, when underwater visibility is at its clearest.
Mombasa is a cultural hub blending Swahili, Arab, and Indian influences. The city’s biggest event is the Mombasa Carnival, celebrated every November with parades, dance, and music. This falls during the short rainy season, but showers are brief and rarely disrupt festivities.
The low season in Mombasa corresponds with the long rainy season (March – May). This is also the off peak season in Mombasa, when heavy showers make beach conditions less reliable. However, it’s the best value period, hotels offer lower rates, and attractions are quieter.
Kenya’s oldest coastal city, Mombasa, enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 27°C and 33°C (81°F–91°F). The city’s coastal breeze from the Indian Ocean keeps conditions comfortable, even during hotter months. Mombasa experiences two rainy seasons, the long rains (March to May) and the short rains (October to November), but sunshine and blue skies dominate most days. Whether you’re exploring Fort Jesus, diving along the coral reefs of Nyali, or relaxing on Bamburi Beach, every month offers its own rhythm of coastal magic.
January
Mombasa buzzes with post-holiday energy. Expect lively beach bars, local festivals, and perfect ocean conditions for snorkeling and sailing.
February
Dry, bright, and beautifully warm, ideal for couples and sunseekers. The perfect time to pair a beach stay with a safari in Tsavo or Amboseli.
March
Hot and humid, with early rains appearing toward the end of the month. Great for cultural tours, spice market visits, and exploring Old Town’s narrow alleys.
April
The wettest month, with heavy but short-lived showers. Ideal for those seeking peace, spa retreats, and low-season hotel rates.
May
Rains ease, leaving the coast emerald green and quiet. Excellent for travelers looking for solitude and serenity by the sea.
June
Cool mornings and fresh sea breezes, great for sightseeing, walking tours, and photography.
July
Dry and mild, with ideal ocean conditions for diving and water sports.
August
A popular month for both local and international visitors. Expect festive beach energy, calm seas, and superb visibility for snorkeling.
September & October
Warm, tranquil, and romantic, perfect for honeymoons and relaxing beach holidays.
November
Soft rains and lush scenery make this a beautiful month for cultural tours and quiet beach escapes.
December
Mombasa comes alive with holiday celebrations, beach fireworks, and oceanfront dining. Book early for the festive season, as resorts fill up fast with both local and international visitors.
General weather summary in November
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30
20
10
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86
68
50
32
General weather summary in December
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20
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86
68
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32
General weather summary in January
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What to wear
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30
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86
68
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32
General weather summary in February
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What to wear
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30
20
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0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in March
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What to wear
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in April
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What to wear
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Amount
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Temperature
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in May
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What to wear
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30
20
10
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86
68
50
32
General weather summary in June
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30
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86
68
50
32
General weather summary in July
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30
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86
68
50
32
General weather summary in August
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30
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86
68
50
32
General weather summary in September
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30
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86
68
50
32
General weather summary in October
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
This relaxing 4-day holiday takes you to the idyllic Diani Beach on Kenya’s coast south of Mombasa. Whether you’re ending a Kenya wildlife safari, or preparing to head to one, or simply want to re
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The Mombasa climate is tropical, hot, and humid year-round. Average highs are 28–32 °C (82–89 °F), with warm nights around 23–25 °C (73–77 °F).
The hottest month in Mombasa is February, with highs of 31–32 °C (88–89 °F) and high humidity.
The coldest month in Mombasa is July, with cooler evenings and daytime highs of 27–28 °C (81–82 °F), though it still feels warm by most standards.
The best time to go to Mombasa is during the long dry season (June – October) for comfort, or the short dry season (December – February) for beach holidays and cultural vibrancy.
Most travelers agree that July – September and January – February are the best time of year to visit Mombasa, combining clear skies with warm, calm seas.
The Mombasa Carnival takes place every November, showcasing Swahili culture through music, dance, and colourful parades.
The long rainy season is March – May, while the short rainy season is in November.
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