Lamu

Lamu is an island northeast of Mombasa along the Kenyan Coast. Lamu is a World Heritage Site. It is an ancient town where you can immerse yourself in Swahili culture. The quiet of Lamu is only interrupted by donkeys braying and the Muslim call for prayer.

Lamu museum, built in 1891, was the residence for colonial-era Governors from Britain.

On the seafront is the ancient Fort that protected the islanders until 1910. The Fort is now an environmental museum and a library.

On the north end of Lamu island is a beautiful stretch of Shela beach. There are small broken sea shells on the white sand. 

Takwa ruins lie on the southern side of Manda Island. People from Shela visit the ruins twice a year to pray for rain at the Pillar Tomb.

What to do in Lamu

Explore the Lamu archipelago on an ancient Arab sailing vessel called a dhow. There are well-organized tour guides with licenses who work harmoniously.

Manda beach is ideal for walking, snorkeling, watching the sunset, kite surfing, and water sports.

When to Visit Lamu

You can show up any time of the year. Have a tour guide for booking.

How to Get to Lamu

• The fastest way to Lamu Island is by air. Local flights come in from Nairobi, Malindi, or Mombasa to Lamu.
• Use the daily bus service from Mombasa through Malindi to Mokowe. From Mokowe, you can take a shared speed boat, a slow, crowded ferry, or hire a speed boat.
• Private cars from Malindi or Mombasa to Lamu are available.

Once on the island, you don’t need a car to get around. A boat will do on the water and a donkey on land. Everything is within reach. You can walk down the winding pathways.

What to Wear in Lamu

Lamu is an Islamic center. The locals wear headscarves and traditional robes. A t-shirt and kneel-length pants are good to go.

Accommodation in Lamu

• Peponi Hotel
• Private beach villas at Kizingo