A hidden jewel of Kenya's Indian Ocean coast, Lamu Archipelago is home to unique Swahili culture and architecture with narrow streets, traditional houses and magnificent fort overlooking the blue Indian Ocean. Lamu has also powdery white beaches and rich underwater world with corals and tropical fish ideal for snorkeling and diving. On the unforgettable boat trips you can even swim with the dolphins - and think you've come to a paradise on earth.
Lamu Town, the capital of Lamu archipelago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to narrow streets and interesting Swahili architecture with hand-carved, wooden doors. Founded in the 14th century, Lamu is the oldest living town in Kenya with a rich history as a trading place. Once used as a prison and now serving as a museum and library, the massive Lamu Fort is one of the main attractions in the town. The fort provides beautiful views over the town and the Indian Ocean. In the excellent Lamu Museum you can learn more about the fascinating Swahili culture, Lamu’s nautical history and admire island’s ceremonial horn. A Muslim town, Lamu town is also home to two beautiful mosques. In the Donkey Sanctuary you can see many donkeys, which are used for transportation in the narrow streets of the town.
Villages & water sports. Besides the spectacular Lamu town, there are some picturesque villages on Lamu Island. You can for example visit the small villages of Shela and Matondoni, which have some great beaches for sunbathing and water sports, such as water skiing, jet skiing, windsurfing and snorkeling and diving in Lamu. Home to the best white beaches on the island, Shela village hosts many guesthouses and hotels in Lamu. You can also go on unforgettable boat tours in Lamu Archipelago or even swim with the dolphins. There are also other interesting historical sites to visit on the archipelago, such as Takwa and Manda Towns on Manda Island.
Swahili culture, white beaches and diving - Attractions and activities in Lamu
Located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya, the Lamu archipelago consists of Pate, Manda and Lamu islands as well as smaller pristine islands home to white sand beaches and fascinating Islamic Swahili culture.Lamu Town, the capital of Lamu archipelago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to narrow streets and interesting Swahili architecture with hand-carved, wooden doors. Founded in the 14th century, Lamu is the oldest living town in Kenya with a rich history as a trading place. Once used as a prison and now serving as a museum and library, the massive Lamu Fort is one of the main attractions in the town. The fort provides beautiful views over the town and the Indian Ocean. In the excellent Lamu Museum you can learn more about the fascinating Swahili culture, Lamu’s nautical history and admire island’s ceremonial horn. A Muslim town, Lamu town is also home to two beautiful mosques. In the Donkey Sanctuary you can see many donkeys, which are used for transportation in the narrow streets of the town.
Villages & water sports. Besides the spectacular Lamu town, there are some picturesque villages on Lamu Island. You can for example visit the small villages of Shela and Matondoni, which have some great beaches for sunbathing and water sports, such as water skiing, jet skiing, windsurfing and snorkeling and diving in Lamu. Home to the best white beaches on the island, Shela village hosts many guesthouses and hotels in Lamu. You can also go on unforgettable boat tours in Lamu Archipelago or even swim with the dolphins. There are also other interesting historical sites to visit on the archipelago, such as Takwa and Manda Towns on Manda Island.
Practical information for your stay in Lamu
Lamu enjoys a pleasant tropical climate with slightly warmer winter months than summer months.
Photo: Cessna 206, used under Creative Commons License (By 2.0)
The rainiest months are May, June and July, whereas the rainfall is minimal in January and February. November to March is the best time to visit Lamu.
Accommodation & services. Although not among the most popular travel destinations in Kenya, Lamu has good facilities for visitors, including hotels and guesthouses around the main island. Most of the local people in Lamu speak some English. Restaurants in Lamu often serve seafood or Swahili cuisine. Many of the restaurants also have beautiful sea views. The Lamu Town has several small bars, discos and clubs where you can enjoy cold beer and good music. What comes to shopping in Lamu, there are some small shops and galleries where you can find souvenirs and Swahili handicrafts.
How to get there. The easiest way to travel to Lamu Archipelago is by air. There are direct flights to Lamu from Nairobi and Mombasa. Ferries are the easiest way of getting around in Lamu Archipelago. There are no cars or other motorized vehicles on Lamu. Therefore, donkeys are used for transport on the island. You can also rent a bike or walk around. All the major attractions on the main island can be easily explored on foot.
Safety. Although it is not as dangerous as Nairboi, crime does happen also in Lamu, so visitors should use common caution. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone after dark.
