Information Guide Mtwapa City Mombasa Coast

Thugged away in the forests of La Marine area, at the mouth of the Mtwapa Creek is an archaeological site that was a town during the 14th century. Evidence from these ruins indicate that the site developed prior to contact with the Middle and Far East.

Strategically it was important both for its position, facing the sea, and later as an exit point to the Middle East. From a centre of wealthy of the Swahili Community, later a large slaving settlement set among baobab trees and beautiful lawns elevated above the beach. Remains at the site consist of the ruins of a number of houses, tombs and mosque.

On a short distance from the local beach or firm walk from the road, Mtwapa Ruins is easy to reach by foot. Please watch out for the water wells hidden by overgrowth. Do not miss out on the giant baobab tree near the beach, probably the oldest and biggest baobab tree on Coast.

There is a care taker who can guide you around to explain more about the history, which is probably one of the oldest Ruins in East Africa, and about the present importance as a religious forest for local community.