Jumba la Mtwana
A 14th–15th-century Swahili stone-town ruin on the Mtwapa Creek, where the foundations of mosques and old houses lie hidden among seaside trees.
Jumba la Mtwana, meaning 'the great house of the slave master', is a Swahili settlement dating from the 14th–15th centuries and is managed by the National Museums of Kenya. Among the trees are coral-stone remains of four mosques, pillar tombs, houses, and cisterns. The Seaside Mosque sits right next to the beach and is quiet and scenic. Although smaller than the Gede Ruins near Malindi, it is closer to Mombasa, about 20 km north, which makes it ideal for a half-day trip. It is open daily, and the entrance fee is low. Mosquitoes are common in the grounds, so bring repellent, and after visiting the ruins you can walk down to the beach.
Opening hours
Daily 08:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Shanzu Beach
- Bamburi Beach
- Haller Park
- Nguuni Nature Sanctuary
- Bombolulu Workshops & Cultural Centre
- Wild Waters
- Mamba Village
- Nyali Beach