Mombasa, located on the coast of Kenya, is a popular tourist destination known for its sandy beaches and rich cultural history. As the country’s second and oldest city, Mombasa attracts many visitors yearly. Recently, the city has gained a new attraction worth visiting: the Mama Ngina Waterfront Park. This 26-acre public park, located in Mombasa County and overlooking the Kilindini Channel, has undergone a redevelopment project that has transformed it into an integrated urban tourist attraction site. 

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the Mama Ngina Waterfront Park and all it offers, from its cultural exhibits and dining options to its outdoor activities and breathtaking views. Whether you are a tourist or a local, the Mama Ngina Waterfront Park is a must-visit destination in Mombasa.

History of the Park

The Mama Ngina Waterfront Park was originally a 26-acre public park that overlooked the Kilindini Channel in Mombasa County. It was a popular spot for leisure activities such as walking, jogging, and riding. The park was also known for its food vendors, selling fried cassava, fried potatoes, and pastries.

In 2019, the park underwent a redevelopment project that cost approximately $4.6 million. The project included landscaping, building an amphitheater, the Kilindini Cultural Centre, ablution blocks, and two main gates. The park was redesigned to support a 24-hour economy, and its layout now includes a jetty for water taxis. The redevelopment project was undertaken by a local company called Suhufi Agencies.

Features of the Park

The Mama Ngina Waterfront Park has several features that make it a unique and enjoyable destination for tourists and locals alike.

Promenade and Seating Area

One of the park’s main attractions is its 2.1km promenade, lined with palm trees, and offers breathtaking views of the Kilindini Channel. The promenade is separated from the cliff face by rail guards, ensuring the safety of visitors.

At the end of the promenade is a seating area that has been transformed into an amphitheater. The amphitheater has a seating capacity of 3,000 people and is surrounded by newly planted palm trees and grass. The amphitheater’s design was inspired by ancient Rome and is a perfect spot to enjoy live cultural events and performances.

Cultural Centre and Food Vendors

In addition to the amphitheater, the park also features the Kilindini Cultural Centre, which offers exhibitions and displays on the cultural heritage of Mombasa. Visitors can learn about the history, traditions, and customs of the city and its people.

There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy food and drinks at the park. The promenade has a space for food vendors, where visitors can try a variety of local and international cuisine. The park also has open-air fresco restaurants and cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink.

Accessibility and Safety

The Mama Ngina Waterfront Park is easily accessible from the Likoni Ferry Crossing, marked by one of the park’s two main gates. The other gate is located at the park’s north end, near the Mombasa Golf Club. These two points serve as the entry and exit points for the park.

To ensure the safety and convenience of visitors, the park is equipped with a police post and public toilets. It is also well-lit, with strategically placed security lighting. The park is open 24 hours a day so visitors can enjoy its amenities anytime.

Things to Do at the Park

There is plenty of things to do at the Mama Ngina Waterfront Park. Here are a few suggestions for activities that visitors can enjoy:

• Dine at open-air restaurants and cafes: The park has several dining options, from fresco restaurants and cafes to food vendors selling local and international cuisine. Visitors can savor the flavors of Mombasa while enjoying the scenic views.
• Relax and take in the views: The promenade and seating area at the park is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Visitors can stroll along the palm tree-lined path or sit and watch the waves crash against the rocks below.
• Participate in outdoor activities: The Mama Ngina Waterfront Park is great for walking, jogging, and riding. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and exercise while exploring the park.
• Attend a cultural exhibition or performance at the amphitheater: The amphitheater is a great venue for experiencing live cultural events and performances. Visitors can enjoy music, dance, and other artistic expressions from Mombasa and beyond.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mama Ngina Waterfront Park is a unique and vibrant attraction in Mombasa that offers something for everyone. With its cultural exhibits, dining options, outdoor activities, and breathtaking views, the park is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can experience the beauty and culture of Mombasa while enjoying the amenities of this revitalized waterfront park. 

Whether you are interested in attending a cultural performance at the amphitheater, dining at one of the park’s fresco restaurants or food vendors, relaxing and taking in the views, or participating in outdoor activities, the Mama Ngina Waterfront Park has something to offer. So if you are planning a trip to Mombasa, add the Mama Ngina Waterfront Park to your list of must-see attractions.