A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mombasa vs. Setubal for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Mombasa or Setubal?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mombasa and Setubal. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Mombasa or Setubal?

Mombasa

Mombasa is a beautiful, large city on the eastern coast of Kenya, bordering the Indian Ocean. The city is famous for its stunning beaches, friendly locals, and diverse marine life. Mombasa experiences a tropical climate year round, meaning temperatures rarely drop below 70° Fahrenheit. The rainiest months of the year are April and May and the driest months are January and February. Temperatures tend to be more mild from May through October, usually in the 70's and 80's. Temperatures get much warmer from November through April, with daily averages reaching the high 90's.

Setubal

Setubal is a busy working port and major commercial fishing center. Setubal is a city that has always had a close connection to the seas, and this is celebrated along the newly rejuvenated waterfront, which encompasses the colorful fishing harbor, the popular urban park and the Troia Peninsula ferry terminal. Within the charming historic center is a maze of narrow alleys, hidden plazas, and family-owned shops, along with Portugal's largest fish market. Setubal is primarily an industrial city, but is situated in a region of immense beauty; to the east is the stunning Serra da Arrabida, to the north is historic Palmela, while to the south are the paradise beaches of the Troia Peninsula. Setubal may not be a conventional holiday destination, but there is a surprising amount to see and do within the city and the surrounding region.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Kenya, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Kenya, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.


Which place is cheaper, Setubal or Mombasa?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mombasa is $80, while the average daily cost in Setubal is $175. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mombasa and Setubal in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mombasa $26
    Setubal $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mombasa $52
    Setubal $138
Compare Hotels in Mombasa and Setubal

Looking for a hotel in Mombasa or Setubal? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mombasa


Hotels in Setubal


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mombasa Hotel Prices and Setubal Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mombasa $18
    Setubal $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mombasa

Also for Mombasa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Mombasa Airport Transfers to Mtwapa: $130
  • Mombasa Airport Transfers : $129
  • Mombasa Airport Private Transfer To Watamu Hotels: $114
  • Private Day Tour of Mombasa City with Transfers: $104
  • Mombasa Airport Private Transfers To Vipingo & Kilifi Hotels: $95
  • Mombasa Airport Private Transfer to Diani Beach: $81
  • Private Transfer from Mombasa City Hotels to Mombasa Cruise Port: $79
  • Private Transfer from Mombasa Cruise Port to Mombasa City Hotels: $79
  • Mombasa Airport (MBA) to Mombasa - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $74
  • DianiBeach: Private Transfer from Airport or Railway Station: $70
  • Private Transfer from Moi Airport Mombasa (MBA) to Mombasa City: $43
  • Private Transfer from Mombasa City to Moi Airport Mombasa (MBA): $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Setubal

Also for Setubal, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfers (Lisbon - Évora) / (Évora - Lisbon): $286
  • Transfer Sesimbra to Lisbon Airport: $102
  • Setúbal: Ilha Deserta Boat Transfer with Free Time: $29
  • Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach Taxi Boat Transfer Round Trip: $24
  • Boat Transfer to Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach with Return: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Mombasa or Setubal?

Prices for flights to both Setubal and Mombasa change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mombasa $41
    Setubal $70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mombasa

For Mombasa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Special African Dinner: $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Setubal

For Setubal, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Lisbon Guided Tour with Live Fado Show and Traditional Dinner : $205

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mombasa $18
    Setubal $15

Tours and Activities in Mombasa

For Mombasa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Mombasa Getaway with Haller Park Tours: $150
  • The Best Of Mombasa Walking Tour: $227
  • Bus Tickets from Mombasa to Nairobi: $55
  • Day Tour To Tsavo East National Park: $240
  • Day Tour to Tsavo East National Park from Mombasa or Diani: $278
  • Day tour to Shimba hills National Reserve from Mombasa/Diani: $336
  • Diani: Full-day Guided Mombasa City Tour from Diani: $110
  • Fort Jesus Museum Walking Tour in Mombasa: $35
  • Full Day Group Joining Tour of Mombasa : $107
  • Full Day Mombasa Excursion Tour : $110
  • Full day tour in Mombasa: $93
  • Full-Day Tour of Mombasa: $110

Tours and Activities in Setubal

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Setubal.

  • Horse Carriage Tour on the Mountain in Palmela: $183
  • Secrets of Setúbal: Exploration Game and Tour: $7.17
  • Évora Catholic History Tour: $101
  • Évora Jewish History Tour: $101
  • Évora Private Walking Tour, By Local Guide: $56
  • Évora or Montemor-o-Novo: Guided Tour to Escoural Caves: $30
  • 4x4 Tour to the Wonders of Cabo Espichel : $60
  • 4x4 and Boat Tour in Arrabida Natural Park: $108
  • Arrábida - Sesimbra: Nature Jeep Tour: $65
  • Arrábida Kayak Tour with Secret Beaches & Beach Picnic: $186
  • Arrabida Adventure Circuit: $72
  • Boat Tour - Arrábida Coves: $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mombasa $8.79
    Setubal $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Setubal

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Setubal:

  • Workshop - Wine Tasting 101: $72
  • Sesimbra: Half-Day Tour to Arrabida with Wine Tasting: $143
  • Half Day Wine Tour Around Evora: $156
  • Lisbon Getaway: Private Arrabida Wine Tour with Cheese Tasting: $213


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mombasa and Setubal, we can see that Setubal is more expensive. And not only is Mombasa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Mombasa is in Africa and Setubal is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Mombasa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mombasa and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Setubal would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Setubal than you might in Mombasa.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mombasa Expensive? and Is Setubal Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mombasa or Setubal?

Mombasa has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Setubal. When comparing the sizes of Mombasa and Setubal, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Mombasa or Setubal?

Setubal has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Mombasa experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Mombasa or Setubal in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Mombasa and Setubal. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Mombasa year-round.

In July, Mombasa is generally around the same temperature as Setubal. Daily temperatures in Mombasa average around 24°C (75°F), and Setubal fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Setubal this time of the year. In Mombasa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mombasa usually receives less sunshine than Setubal during summer. Mombasa gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Setubal receives 352 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Mombasa usually receives more rain than Setubal. Mombasa gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Setubal receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mombasa 24°C (75°F) 
    Setubal 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Mombasa or Setubal in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Mombasa as well as Setubal. Mombasa attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Mombasa is a little warmer than Setubal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mombasa averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Setubal fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Setubal. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mombasa this time of the year. In the autumn, Mombasa often gets more sunshine than Setubal. Mombasa gets 291 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Setubal receives 213 hours of full sun.

Mombasa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Mombasa usually gets more rain in October than Setubal. Mombasa gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Setubal receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mombasa 26°C (79°F) 
    Setubal 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Mombasa or Setubal in the Winter?

Both Setubal and Mombasa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Mombasa throughout the year.

In the winter, Mombasa is much warmer than Setubal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mombasa in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Setubal averages at about 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mombasa. Mombasa usually receives more sunshine than Setubal during winter. Mombasa gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Setubal receives 144 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Setubal. In January, Mombasa usually receives less rain than Setubal. Mombasa gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Setubal receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mombasa 27°C (81°F) 
    Setubal 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Mombasa or Setubal in the Spring?

Both Setubal and Mombasa during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Mombasa because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Mombasa is generally much warmer than Setubal. Daily temperatures in Mombasa average around 27°C (81°F), and Setubal fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Setubal, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mombasa. In the spring, Mombasa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Setubal. Mombasa gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Setubal receives 235 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mombasa. Mombasa usually gets more rain in April than Setubal. Mombasa gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Setubal receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mombasa 27°C (81°F) 
    Setubal 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Setubal and Mombasa

Mombasa Setubal
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 27°C (81°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 28°C (82°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 26°C (79°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 21°C (69°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 24°C (75°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 50 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 26°C (79°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 26°C (79°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)