Is Mombasa Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Mombasa, while a stunning city with rich history, is often characterized by instances of petty theft. It is essential for solo travelers to take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas, especially at night, and ensuring their belongings are secured. Mindful of these aspects, Mombasa can be a rewarding travel destination.

Safety rating

2.9 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Mombasa is currently ranked #24 safest place in Kenya for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 2.9 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Mombasa?

Safety at night:Unsafe

Mombasa, at night may present some challenges for a solo female traveller. While a lot depends on the specific area within the city, generally, walking alone at night can be risky. Just like any other bustling city worldwide, common petty crimes such as pickpocketing and muggings may occur, especially in less populated areas. It's advisable to avoid dimly lit areas and always use trusted means of transportation during late hours. Staying vigilant and aware of your surrounding at all times will largely contribute to your safety.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transport, mainly consisting of matatus (minibuses) and tuk-tuks, is fairly reliable and used by many locals in Mombasa. However, the conditions of the vehicles can be poor and they are often overcrowded. While serious incidents are relatively uncommon, petty crime can occur, especially at night. For safety, avoid public transport at night, keep your belongings close, and be aware of your surroundings. Many solo female travelers prefer using taxis, especially those from trusted companies.

Street harassment:Moderate

As a solo female traveler in Mombasa, you can expect a moderate amount of street harassment. While locals are generally friendly and welcoming, it's quite common to experience persistent street sellers and occasional verbal harassment. Always be cautious and avoid engaging with unsolicited attention or distractions. Dress modestly to blend in and minimize unnecessary attention.

Petty crimes:High

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and theft from hotel rooms or cars are quite common, particularly in crowded places like markets and bus stations. Travelers are advised to always watch their belongings and avoid flaunting wealth. It's better to keep a low profile and stay vigilant especially when in public and crowded places.

Is Mombasa worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.3 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.7/5

Safety

2.9/5

Food

3.3/5

Budget-friendly

2.8/5

Solo travel

I stayed in Nyali area. This is a tourist friendly part of the city. It was safe to walk around the streets alone, even in the evening when its already dark outside. When going to the beach there will be a lot of locals trying to sell you coconuts, boat tours or crafts. They will walk with you on the beach and it might be hard to get rid of them. A good place to go for dinner is Mama Siti Cafe. They have a cheap menu and the local food is amazing. For transport i recommend to use the app BOLT. You can book a taxi, tuktuk or motortaxi and its not expensive at all.

Posted: February 27, 2025

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Solo travel

Yes I was safe in Mombasa I get to experience the breeze of sea , tried sea food and other amazing street food which I find it more delicious than the other common food in Kenya, mombasa is the best place for relaxing

Posted: December 24, 2024

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Solo travel

Everyone I met was so so welcoming and friendly. Prices were expensive in the supermarket and food choice was limited if you are vegetarian. But the local markets had amazing fresh produce for cheap, don't be afraid to haggle!

Posted: March 13, 2024Experienced: March, 2018

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Is Mombasa safe for women?

Mombasa is a very developed coastal city in kenya, and i beleive the rate of crime here is so low because young people are self employed most of them and since there is enough job for youths the rate of crime is so low

Posted: December 31, 2024

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It’s a good place to travel and explore but you have to be careful. For first time travelers you shouldn’t trust strangers you meet at the beach because most of them are scammers and can try to sell you things which are overpriced.

Posted: March 10, 2024

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Meet locals in Mombasa

Umu

About Me

My Name is Umu. I am currently a student studying Nutrition and dietetics and I would love to meet up with new friends from different parts of the world.

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Rheen

About Me

My name is Rheen, a seasoned traveller around Africa

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Stay with locals in Mombasa

Umu

Mombasa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

My Name is Umu. I am currently a student studying Nutrition and dietetics and I would love to meet up with new friends from different parts of the world.

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Upcoming visitors to Mombasa

Sumi

About Me

Dang, I am Sumi. Currently I am based in the capital of India. I like plants (I've managed to kill a cactus tho), doggos, cattos, hanging out with friends at a local tea shop and pretend that it's the UN and we all will bring world peace. That's a bit about me.

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