Lamu Island, Kenya

Lamu Island is a beautiful and culturally rich destination located off the coast of Kenya in the Indian Ocean. 

Location: Lamu Island is part of the Lamu Archipelago, situated in the northeastern part of Kenya, near the border with Somalia. It lies approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of Mombasa.

History: Lamu Island has a long and storied history, dating back to the 14th century. It was a major trading port along the Swahili Coast and served as an important hub for trade between Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and beyond. The island has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Arab, Portuguese, and Swahili cultures.

Architecture: Lamu Town, the main settlement on the island, is renowned for its well-preserved Swahili architecture. The town’s narrow winding streets, coral stone buildings, and intricately carved wooden doors are a testament to its historical significance and cultural heritage.

Cultural Heritage: Lamu Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding cultural significance and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Lamu Fort, Lamu Museum, and Swahili House Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture.

Getting to Lamu Island typically involves a combination of air and sea travel due to its remote location. Here’s how you can reach Lamu Island:

1. By Air:

  • The nearest airport to Lamu Island is Lamu Airport (IATA: LAU), located on Manda Island, which is adjacent to Lamu Island. Flights to Lamu Airport are available from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and Wilson Airport (WIL).
  • Several airlines operate scheduled flights to Lamu, including Safarilink, Fly540, and AirKenya. Flight durations vary, but it typically takes around 1 hour to fly from Nairobi to Lamu.

2. By Boat:

  • Upon arriving at Lamu Airport on Manda Island, travelers must take a short boat ride to reach Lamu Island itself. Boat transfers are readily available and can be arranged in advance or upon arrival at the airport.
  • The boat journey from Manda Island to Lamu Island usually takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on weather conditions and tides.
  • Alternatively, if you’re already in the region, you can also reach Lamu Island by boat from other coastal towns such as Mombasa or Malindi. Regular ferry and speedboat services operate between these destinations and Lamu.

3. By Road and Boat:

  • If you’re traveling overland from Nairobi or other parts of Kenya, you can reach Lamu by road and then take a ferry from Mokowe Jetty to Lamu Island.
  • From Mombasa or Malindi, you can drive to Mokowe Jetty and then take a ferry across to Lamu Island. The journey by road can take several hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Important Tips:

  • It’s advisable to book flights and boat transfers in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your seats and ensure smooth travel.
  • Keep in mind that travel times and schedules may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other factors, so it’s a good idea to check with airlines and boat operators for the latest information before your journey.
  • Once on Lamu Island, transportation within the town is primarily by foot, bicycle, or donkey, as motor vehicles are limited due to the narrow streets and historical preservation efforts.

Overall, reaching Lamu Island is part of the adventure, and the journey itself offers glimpses of the stunning coastal landscapes and the unique way of life in this remote island paradise.

Lamu Island, part of the Lamu Archipelago in Kenya, offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do and see on Lamu Island:

  1. Explore Lamu Town: Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Lamu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Swahili architecture. Admire the intricately carved wooden doors, visit historic mosques, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this ancient town.

  2. Visit Lamu Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Lamu Island at the Lamu Museum, which houses exhibits on Swahili culture, trade, and maritime history. Don’t miss the opportunity to see traditional Swahili artifacts, including furniture, jewelry, and household items.

  3. Relax on the Beaches: Spend a day soaking up the sun on one of Lamu Island’s beautiful beaches. Shela Beach and Manda Beach are popular choices, offering pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

  4. Dhow Sailing: Experience the traditional way of sailing by taking a dhow cruise around Lamu Island and the surrounding archipelago. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, visit nearby islands, and watch the sunset over the ocean.

  5. Visit Takwa Ruins: Explore the ancient ruins of Takwa, an abandoned Swahili settlement located on Manda Island. Marvel at the well-preserved structures, including mosques, houses, and tombs, and learn about the history of this once-thriving community.

  6. Enjoy Water Sports: Take advantage of the island’s pristine waters by engaging in water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing. Discover vibrant coral reefs, colorful marine life, and hidden underwater treasures.

  7. Take a Mangrove Tour: Embark on a guided tour of the mangrove forests that fringe the shores of Lamu Island. Learn about the importance of mangroves to the local ecosystem, spot bird species, and observe wildlife such as crabs, monkeys, and mudskippers.

  8. Attend Cultural Festivals: Experience Lamu Island’s rich cultural heritage by attending one of its many festivals and events. The Lamu Cultural Festival, held annually, celebrates Swahili culture through music, dance, art, and traditional performances.

  9. Savor Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavors of Swahili cuisine at one of Lamu Island’s many restaurants and cafes. Sample dishes such as samosas, biryani, grilled seafood, and coconut-infused desserts, accompanied by freshly squeezed fruit juices or aromatic Swahili coffee.

  10. Relax and Unwind: Take time to relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of Lamu Island. Whether you choose to lounge on the beach, enjoy a spa treatment, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Lamu offers plenty of opportunities to rejuvenate body and mind.

These are just a few of the many attractions and activities that await you on Lamu Island. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing by the sea, Lamu has something for everyone to enjoy.

Here are some hotels and accommodations on Lamu Island:

  1. Peponi Hotel Lamu: Located in Shela village, Peponi Hotel is a family-run boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms with ocean views, a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood, and a poolside bar. The hotel also organizes dhow sailing trips and other activities.

  2. The Majlis Resort: Situated on Manda Island, The Majlis Resort offers luxury accommodation in spacious rooms and suites with private balconies or verandas. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, water sports center, and fine dining restaurant.

  3. Kizingo: Kizingo is a beachfront eco-lodge located on Lamu Island’s remote southwest coast. The lodge offers rustic-chic bandas (cottages) with ocean views, a beach bar, and restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine. Activities include snorkeling, kayaking, and dhow sailing.

  4. Forodhani House: This boutique hotel in Lamu Town features elegantly decorated rooms and suites with traditional Swahili furnishings. Guests can relax in the courtyard garden, enjoy meals at the rooftop restaurant, and explore Lamu’s historic attractions.

  5. Jua House: Jua House is a charming guesthouse located in the heart of Lamu Town. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with authentic Swahili decor, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and a tranquil courtyard garden.

  6. Subira House: Situated in Lamu Town, Subira House is a restored 18th-century Swahili mansion offering guest rooms and self-catering apartments. The property features traditional architecture, ornate wooden carvings, and a rooftop terrace with views of the town and harbor.

  7. Manda Bay Resort: Located on Manda Island, Manda Bay Resort offers luxury tented accommodation with en-suite bathrooms and verandas overlooking the ocean. Guests can enjoy activities such as fishing, snorkeling, sunset dhow cruises, and beach picnics.

  8. Banana House & Wellness Centre: Banana House is a boutique hotel in Shela village offering spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel features a wellness center offering yoga classes, massage treatments, and holistic therapies.

  9. Diamond Beach Village: This eco-friendly beachfront resort on Manda Island offers rustic-chic bandas and cottages with ocean views. Guests can relax on the beach, enjoy water sports activities, or dine at the on-site restaurant serving fresh seafood.

  10. Baytil Ajaib: Baytil Ajaib is a historic Swahili mansion in Lamu Town that has been converted into a guesthouse. The property features beautifully decorated rooms, a courtyard garden, and a rooftop terrace with views of the town and sea.

These are just a few of the hotels and accommodations available on Lamu Island. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or guesthouses with local charm, Lamu offers a range of options to suit every traveler’s preferences.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Lamu Island:

  1. Where is Lamu Island located?

    • Lamu Island is located off the coast of Kenya in the Indian Ocean, forming part of the Lamu Archipelago. It lies northeast of Mombasa and near the border with Somalia.

  2. How do I get to Lamu Island?

    • Visitors can reach Lamu Island by flying to Manda Airport, which is located on neighboring Manda Island. Flights to Manda Airport are available from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and other airports in Kenya. From Manda Airport, travelers can take a short boat ride to Lamu Island.

  3. What are the main attractions on Lamu Island?

    • Lamu Island is known for its rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and well-preserved Swahili architecture. Some of the main attractions include Lamu Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Lamu Museum, Shela Beach, Takwa Ruins, and the annual Lamu Cultural Festival.

  4. What activities can I do on Lamu Island?

    • Visitors to Lamu Island can enjoy a variety of activities, including dhow sailing trips, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, birdwatching, and sunset cruises. Exploring the narrow streets of Lamu Old Town and relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches are also popular pastimes.

  5. Is Lamu Island safe to visit?

    • Lamu Island is generally considered safe for tourists, but travelers should exercise normal safety precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It’s advisable to follow local customs and respect cultural sensitivities while visiting Lamu.

  6. What is the best time to visit Lamu Island?

    • The best time to visit Lamu Island is during the dry season, which runs from late December to March and from July to October. During these months, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.

  7. What should I pack for a trip to Lamu Island?

    • It’s recommended to pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate, as well as sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to engage in water activities, don’t forget to pack swimwear and snorkeling gear.

  8. Are there accommodation options on Lamu Island?

    • Yes, Lamu Island offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, guesthouses, and eco-lodges. Visitors can choose from beachfront properties, historic Swahili houses, and secluded retreats depending on their preferences and budget.