Okay, so I wanted to share a bit about my time going through Moi International Airport in Mombasa, Kenya. It was definitely an experience, a real hands-on kind of day for me, and I figured I’d jot down how it all went.
Stepping Off the Plane
So, the plane finally landed. We taxied for a bit, and then we were out. The first thing that hit me was the warm air, really different from where I’d come from. We actually walked down the stairs onto the tarmac. I always find that a bit old-school, you know? Instead of a jet bridge. I took a moment to look around, saw the airport building, nothing too fancy, but functional looking. We then got onto a bus for a short ride to the terminal building itself. That was quick enough.
Into the Terminal and Immigration
Once inside, we headed straight for immigration. That was the first real hurdle, I guess. The hall was pretty busy. Lots of people from different flights, it seemed. I got in line and just waited. It wasn’t super fast, but it wasn’t the worst I’ve seen either. I had my visa sorted beforehand, which I think helped a lot. I just handed over my passport and the landing card I filled out on the plane. The officer was polite, asked a couple of basic questions about my stay, stamped my passport, and I was through. Phew!
Baggage Claim Adventures
Next up was baggage claim. I found the carousel for my flight, and then the waiting game began again. It took a little while for the bags to start coming out. I kept watching, hoping to spot mine.
- Saw a lot of interesting luggage go by.
- The carousel made a few funny noises.
- Finally, there it was! My bag, looking a bit tired from the journey.
I grabbed it quickly. Always a relief to be reunited with your stuff, right?
Customs and Exiting
With my bag in hand, I headed towards customs. I wasn’t carrying anything I shouldn’t have been, so I wasn’t too worried. It was a pretty straightforward process. An officer glanced at my luggage, asked if I had anything to declare. I said no, and he just waved me through. That was easier than I thought it might be.
Then, I was finally walking out into the arrivals area. Wow, that was a burst of activity. Lots of people waiting, taxi drivers looking for fares, tour operators holding up signs. It was a bit overwhelming for a second, but also kind of exciting. I had pre-arranged my transport, so I looked around for my name on a sign. Spotted it after a minute or two. My driver was there, friendly enough, and helped me with my bag.
My Final Thoughts
So, that was my journey through Mombasa Airport. It’s not one of those huge, super-modern, gleaming airports you see in some big capital cities. It’s got a more down-to-earth, functional feel to it. Things moved, maybe not at lightning speed, but they did move. Staff were generally helpful when I needed them. It was a good introduction to the local pace, I think. I managed to get through it all without any major drama, which is always a win when you’re traveling. Just another practical experience under my belt, navigating a new place. I learned to just go with the flow a bit, and it all worked out in the end.
