Mombasa "Tusks", Mombasa

Mombasa "Tusks", Mombasa (must see)

The Mombasa Tusks stand as one of the city鈥檚 most recognizable landmarks and a proud symbol of its history and identity. Erected in 1952 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II鈥檚 first visit to Mombasa, the twin ivory-colored arches were designed to form the letter 鈥淢鈥� for Mombasa. They were strategically placed on Moi Avenue鈥攖hen known as Kilindini Road鈥攚here the Queen鈥檚 motorcade was expected to pass, creating a ceremonial gateway to the heart of the city.

Originally constructed from wood and canvas, the tusks were later replaced with durable aluminium to withstand weather and time. Over the decades, they have come to represent more than just colonial history鈥攖hey now symbolize Mombasa鈥檚 spirit of hospitality and its role as a gateway to East Africa. The monument鈥檚 symmetrical design, crossing above the central avenue, has become an instantly recognizable feature in photographs and postcards from the region.

The surrounding area on Moi Avenue offers a lively mix of urban energy and coastal charm. Beneath the shade of palm trees, visitors will find benches, gardens, and small vendors selling refreshments and souvenirs. At night, the illuminated tusks create a striking visual effect that draws both locals and tourists for photographs.

For those exploring Mombasa, the Tusks are not just a photo stop鈥攖hey are a reminder of the city鈥檚 layered history, where Swahili culture, colonial encounters, and modern urban life converge.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Mombasa. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Mombasa "Tusks"
Sight Location: Mombasa, Kenya (See walking tours in Mombasa)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Mombasa Introduction Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Mombasa, Kenya

Create Your Own Walk in Mombasa

Creating your own self-guided walk in Mombasa is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Mombasa Shopping Tour

Mombasa is the best place in Kenya for souvenirs, because most of the country鈥檚 unique handicrafts are made right here in the city. You can get many amazing African art pieces, handmade jewelry and home decorations like captivating wooden statues. Take our tour to find the best shopping spots in the city, from the beach to the Old Town district.

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles

Mombasa's Top Religious Sites

Mombasa has a strong Arab influence, a fact which is reflected in the great number of old mosques in this Kenyan city. But here you鈥檒l also find many Hindu temples and Christian churches that have been established over time. Take our self-guided tour to explore the religious life of the city.

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles

Mombasa Introduction Walking Tour

Kenya's second-largest city Mombasa is a bustling metropolis and a major regional cultural and economic hub. Owing to its strategic location on the country's east coast, facing the Indian ocean, Mombasa enjoys steady influx of visitors as both, a seaport and tourist destination. The most notable local landmarks include the famous "Tusks", Swaminarayan Temple, Jain Temple, Fort... view more

Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.2 Km or 3.2 Miles

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