Tourists at the Mamba Village in Mombasa. [Photo/ letsgokenya.com]
The December holidays are around the corner and a majority of Kenyans can't wait to put aside the frustrations of a year marked by prolonged political battles.If you are still looking for places to go on holiday, the coastal region of Kenya never disappoints.Here are a few places to visit during your stay at the Coast.Fort JesusFort Jesus was once a revered watchtower for the Portuguese. This monumental fortress is one of the tourist attractions you can check out if you want to understand the country's colonial history and the significance of the coastal region to the outside world.Mamba VillageLocated in Nyali, this unique and expansive tourist site hosts East Africa's largest crocodile farm. You can learn about the life cycle and behaviour of these reptiles with the main focus being on how the crocs square it out for tasty morsels during feeding time.Shimba Hills National ReserveLocated about 33 km south of Mombasa, Shimba Hills offers a peaceful getaway from the ever-bustling city life. The reserve’s woodlands, savannas, waterfalls, and rainforest provide a home for a rich diversity of Kenya's flora and fauna. Shimba Hills has rare cycads and orchids as well as one of the highest concentrations of elephants in the country.Haller ParkYou have to visit Haller Park if you are an animal and nature lover. The park is located approximately 10km from the Mombasa CBD on the road to Mtwapa and was formerly known as Bamburi Nature Trail. This exciting park is rated as one of the region’s best tourist attractions. Initially a limestone quarry, this ageless zone was transformed into a haven of sorts with different tree species, a wildlife park, hundreds of bird species as well as walking and cycling parks thanks to the efforts of Dr Rhene Haller.Mombasa Marine ParkWatching the sea below and seeing the diverse and beautiful marine life is the wish of every tourist who visits the coastal city. Mombasa Marine Park is sure to provide you with this marvelous experience. The Bamburi-based park also offers diving and snorkeling activities.