Getting Around Mombasa: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Mombasa offers a mix of walkable areas, especially in the city center and older neighborhoods, where pedestrians can easily access daily necessities without a car. The infrastructure in these areas is improving, with wider footpaths and streetlights enhancing the walking experience. However, some parts of Mombasa are car-dependent, requiring transport for longer trips. For a traveler, this city presents plenty of opportunities to explore on foot in the right parts of town, though navigating from one area to another might sometimes require additional transport.

Public transport in Mombasa mainly relies on matatus and tuk-tuks, which are ubiquitous but can be crowded and somewhat unpredictable. Despite ongoing efforts to introduce a Bus Rapid Transit system, current options may not always be the most comfortable or safe. This reliance on informal transit networks means travelers may find the system functional but not particularly convenient or timely for longer journeys.

Mombasa's flat terrain is favorable for biking, but the city's infrastructure is just beginning to accommodate cyclists, with few dedicated bike lanes and heavy traffic posing challenges. Although there are initiatives to expand cycling routes, the current environment may feel precarious for everyday biking. Hence, for travelers relying primarily on bikes, the experience could be limited to select areas until further improvements are made.