MOMBASA The coastal city of Mombasa is one of Africa 's major tourist destinations, with some of the best beaches in the world. Located on Kenya 's Eastern coastline bordering the Indian Ocean , Mombasa has become popular for its exotic beaches, diverse marine life, world-class hotels and friendly people. Mombasa is also one of the busiest ports on the East African coast – cargo handling, cruise ships and passenger ships. It is the port and natural harbour that brought its first visitors centuries ago mainly colonialists all seeking a piece of Africa ’s vast natural treasure trove. Mombasa 's history dates back to the 16th century, and it has been ruled by the Portuguese, Arabs and British-which have all influenced the town's culture and the attractions that still exist including historical ruins such as Fort Jesus and the Old Town .  Today the streets of Old Town Mombasa still reflect the Arab and Latin architecture deeply immersed in the African Arabic cultures. In 1498 a Portuguese explorer called Vasco De Gama landed on the shores of Mombasa . The purpose of his exploration was to spread the Christian faith and to further expand Portugal ’s trading area. His arrival to Mombasa was met which much hostility among the local people. However, he made a very important ally, the King of Malindi. The Portuguese knew that Mombasa was essential in order to successfully trade their goods; hence in 1592 they used their power to make the King of Malindi the Sultan of Mombasa. In doing so the locals consequently had no choice but to obey the orders of the Sultan, which in turn came from the Portuguese Government Mombasa 's beaches offer a host of activities for kids and adults alike such as deep-sea fishing and water sports. Tours of the town, safaris in game parks, and camping can all be planned through travel agencies within the city. Hotels also incorporate these activities as part of their entertainment, with the aim of making the trip to Mombasa the ultimate holiday experience. There is plenty to see and do in Mombasa . One of the factors that draws visitors from Mombasa , not only internationally but also from other areas within Kenya such as the capital Nairobi , is the exciting nightlife. There are many nightclubs situated along the North and South Coasts of the town, all of which have different themes that cater to different crowds. Many hotels also have their own entertainment , which are very appealing to those wishing to have a relatively mellow evening. Amongst the many excursions offered to the discerning visitor are the following: Bamburi Nature Trail The Bamburi Nature Trail is the largest animal sanctuary in Mombasa . Located in Bamburi next to the Cement Factory, the Nature Trail boasts an enormous variety of animals, reptiles, insects and botanical gardens. Walking along the trail is the ideal way to look at the various animals, and on many occasions holding or feeding a reptile such as a snake is allowed under close supervision of a guide. Educational videos are also shown, with emphasis on the the history and continuous improvement of the trail. It was previously a barren piece of land that had been stripped of its resources through limestone mining, and was redeveloped through reforestation and conservation efforts, and is now a habitat for a large number of flora and fauna species Bombolulu Workshops  The Bombolulu workshops are located along the north coast of Mombasa . Founded in 1969, Bombolulu Workshops is a Project of the Association for the Physically Disabled in Kenya (APDK). It is a major Tourist attraction, which consists of a Cultural Center with 8 traditional homesteads. The Center also runs a traditional Restaurant and entertains guests with traditional dances throughout the day. The Center is run by the "Association for the physically disabled" and employs 150-disabled craftsmen/women who produce jewellery, hand printed textiles, wood carvings and leather crafts. The products are sold in a large showroom and exported to 20 countries. Bombolulu Workshops have grown to be one of the biggest rehabilitation centers in Kenya and has built a reputation as one of Kenyans most reliable exporters The Mamba Village Crocodile Farm Mamba Village , which is situated in Nyali, is East Africa ’s largest crocodile farm. A tour of the farm starts with a movie on the life cycle and behaviour of crocodiles, followed by a comprehensive tour of the rest of farm, and ends with the highlight of the day: a spectacular scene of blood-thirsty crocodiles fighting for food during feeding time. Excellent cuisine is available at the Mamba Restaurant, and the house specialty is superbly grilled crocodile meat. Souvenirs of your visit can be bought at the Mamba Souvenir shop located within the village.