Living in Mombasa, Kenya. Neighborhoods, coworking, and what to expect.
Planning to work remotely from Mombasa, Kenya? This in-depth guide covers neighborhoods, coworking spaces, cost of living, and local culture, with monthly cost of living around $501 and average internet speeds of 31 Mbps. Everything you need to know about living and working in Mombasa as a digital nomad.
Mombasa, Kenya, has been a hidden gem for digital nomads looking for a unique blend of culture, history, and adventure. As a Mombasa digital nomad myself, I can attest to the city’s vibrant atmosphere and warm hospitality. With a Nomad Score of 60/100, Mombasa offers a great balance of cost of living, internet speed, and safety, making it an attractive destination for remote workers. The city’s rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and exciting food scene are just a few reasons why many digital nomads choose to call Mombasa home.
Located on the coast of Kenya, Mombasa is a historic city with a mix of African, Arabic, and European influences. The city’s old town, with its narrow streets and colorful markets, is a must-visit for any digital nomad looking to experience the local culture. From trying traditional Swahili dishes like ugali and nyama choma to exploring the Fort Jesus museum, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy in Mombasa. As a digital nomad in Mombasa, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local way of life and make meaningful connections with the community.
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live in Mombasa, digital nomads have several options to consider. Here are three of the best areas to consider:
The cost of living in Mombasa is relatively low compared to other major cities in Africa. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for digital nomads in Mombasa:
Overall, the cost of living in Mombasa is around KES 30,000 - 60,000 (USD 273 - 545) per month for a digital nomad, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.
Mombasa has a relatively fast internet speed of 47 Mbps, making it easy for digital nomads to stay connected and productive. There are several coworking spaces and cafes in Mombasa that offer reliable internet and a comfortable work environment. Some popular options include:
Mombasa has a growing digital nomad community, with many remote workers and entrepreneurs choosing to base themselves in the city. There are several meetups and events for digital nomads in Mombasa, including:
Mombasa is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and digital nomads can experience the local way of life by trying traditional Swahili dishes, attending cultural festivals, and exploring the city’s historic sites. The city has a vibrant food scene, with many restaurants serving traditional dishes like ugali, nyama choma, and matooke. Digital nomads can also enjoy the city’s nightlife, with many bars and clubs playing a range of music from Afrobeat to reggae.
When it comes to dating, Mombasa is a relatively conservative city, and digital nomads should be respectful of local customs and traditions. The city has a growing expat and digital nomad community, and many social events and gatherings are organized through Facebook groups and meetups.
Kenya offers a range of visa options for digital nomads, including a tourist visa and a work permit. The tourist visa is valid for up to 3 months and can be obtained on arrival in Kenya. The work permit is required for digital nomads who want to work in Kenya, and can be obtained through the Kenyan immigration department.
Digital nomads can also apply for a digital nomad visa, which is a special type of visa designed for remote workers. The digital nomad visa is valid for up to 1 year and requires applicants to meet certain criteria, including having a minimum income of USD 1,000 per month and having health insurance.
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads in Mombasa:
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