"Home to the 3rd a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kenya"
Lamu Island Tourism
Lamu Island, located 150 miles from Mombasa, Kenya, is a bustling city and port in the Indian Ocean. As part of the Lamu Archipelago, the island boasts a history that dates back to the 14th century, and is known as one of the oldest continuously inhabited Swahili settlement in East Africa. With a population of just over 25,300 people, it is a melting pot of different cultures with influences from Arab, Persia, India, and Europe. Featuring narrow streets, coral stone buildings, and intricately carved wooden doors that reflect its storied past, the Lamu town is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001.
Visitors to Lamu Island can explore the town’s historical landmarks, including the Lamu Museum, showcasing Swahili culture and history, and the Lamu Fort, a 19th-century fortification that now serves as a library and cultural center. The island’s dhow-building industry offers a glimpse into traditional boat-making techniques, while a dhow sail along the Indian Ocean provides stunning views of the coastline.
The island is perfect for water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving due to its beautiful coral reefs. The island’s vibrant festivals, such as the annual Lamu Cultural Festival and Maulidi Festival, celebrate the island’s heritage with music, dance, and traditional sports.
Lamu Island is also a haven for relaxation and nature enthusiasts. The serene Shela Beach, with its golden sands and clear waters, is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The nearby Manda Island and its ancient ruins offer further exploration opportunities. The island’s laid-back atmosphere, devoid of motorized vehicles, allows visitors to experience its charm through leisurely walks or donkey rides.
Accommodations on Lamu Island range from luxurious beachfront resorts to charming boutique hotels and guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. The island’s cuisine, featuring a blend of Swahili and international flavors, delights food enthusiasts with fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and coconut-infused dishes.
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Things to do in Lamu Island
1. Shela Beach & Village
Shela Beach, on Lamu Island's southeast coast, offers beautiful white sands and clear blue waters. It's great for relaxing, swimming, and trying water sports like kite surfing. Nearby Shela Village ha (Read More)s quaint streets lined with traditional Swahili houses.
2. Manda Island
Just a short boat ride from Lamu Town, Manda Island has untouched beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. You can enjoy activities like snorkelling, diving, birdwatching, and kayaking here. It's a (Read More) peaceful spot surrounded by nature.
3. Kiunga Marine National Reserve
North Lamu Island lies the Kiunga Marine National Reserve, known for its dolphins, turtles, and colourful coral reefs. Visitors can snorkel, dive, or go on boat tours to see marine life. It's a great (Read More)place to experience Kenya's underwater world.
4. Lamu Museum
Lamu Museum, in Lamu Old Town, showcases Swahili culture and history. You can learn about local traditions and see artefacts from Lamu's trading past. It's a fascinating insight into the island's heri (Read More)tage.
5. Takwa Ruins
On Manda Island, the Takwa Ruins are ancient remains dating back to the 15th century. Guided tours let you explore old mosques, tombs, and other structures, offering a glimpse into Lamu's history.
6. Lamu Fort
Lamu Fort, built in the 19th century, now houses a museum about Swahili culture. You can climb the tower for views of the town and attend cultural events here.
7. Donkey Sanctuary
Lamu Island's Donkey Sanctuary cares for working donkeys. Visitors can meet the donkeys, learn about their welfare, and support the sanctuary's efforts.
8. Old Lamu Town
Old Lamu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Swahili architecture and bustling markets. It's great for exploring narrow streets and admiring historic buildings.
9. Sail Traditional Dhow
Sailing on a traditional dhow is a must-do experience in Lamu. These wooden boats offer sunset cruises and island-hopping adventures.
10. Kiwayu Island
Kiwayu Island, northeast of Lamu, has secluded beaches and coral reefs. It's perfect for snorkelling, diving, and relaxing.
11. Pate Island
Southwest of Lamu, Pate Island is rich in history and culture. You can explore ancient ruins and traditional villages here.
12. Lamu Island Festivals
Lamu Island hosts vibrant festivals like the Lamu Cultural Festival, Maulidi Festival, and Lamu Yoga Festival, showcasing Swahili culture through music, dance, food, and cultural displays.
Must Know Before You Travel to Lamu Island
- Embrace "Pole-Pole" Lifestyle: Before going to Lamu Island, remember to take it easy and go with the flow. The local saying "pole-pole" means to take things slowly, shaping the island's laid-back vibe.
- Getting Around: Transportation on the island is mainly by donkey, dhow, or walking, as there are only four cars.
- Accommodations and Dining: Shela is where you'll find most accommodations and dining spots, while Lamu Old Town offers a more cultural experience.
- Lamu Cultural Festival: The Lamu Cultural Festival happens in late November, a great time to visit for a taste of local traditions.
- Dhow Cruises: Don't skip a dhow cruise around the island, easily arranged through your hotel or by speaking directly to captains at the docks.
- Lamu County is not Lamu Island: Lamu Archipelago (Lamu County) includes more than just Lamu Island; it also covers Manda Island and a few other smaller islands in the area.
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Shopping in Lamu Island
Visitors can explore Lamu Old Town for traditional crafts like wooden furniture, colorful kikois, handwoven baskets, and brassware. Lamu Market is great for fresh produce, while Lamu Museum Shop offers historical items. For unique finds, Ali Lamu sells bags made from recycled cloth, and Natural Lamu offers spa products and stylish bags. Aman & Aman Home has chic boutiques, and nearby African Corner is a quaint gift shop. The Maasai Market sells beaded jewelry, and Janet’s Collection offers affordable kikoys and Swahili dresses.
Nightlife in Lamu Island
Nightlife in Lamu Island is vibrant and diverse, catering to locals, tourists, and expats.
- MaraRaha Village Lounge is a cozy bar in the sand dunes, offering occasional party nights with live music and dancing.
- Known for its great food and buzzing atmosphere, Peponi Hotel in Shela village is a popular spot for locals, expats, and tourists, perfect for special occasions.
- Kijani Restaurant serves delicious meals like fish & chips.
- Diamond Beach Village on Manda Island hosts beach parties that last late into the night.
- Ali Lamu is a quaint café and shop in Shela, ideal for enjoying smoothies and treats like flourless chocolate cake.
- For budget-friendly snacks, Al-Mabrook shop in Shela offers local favorites like mandazis and samosas.
- The Floating Bar & Restaurant is famous for its weekly parties along the boat route from the airport to Lamu.
Festivals in Lamu Island
- Lamu Cultural Festival: Held annually, this event typically takes place in November and showcases traditional music, dance, art, and food. Highlights include dhow races, donkey races, and displays of local crafts.
- Maulidi Festival: Celebrated to honor the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, this festival occurs annually in the third month of the Islamic calendar.
- Lamu Yoga Festival: Typically held in March, this festival invites visitors to join yoga classes, workshops, and meditation sessions against Lamu's picturesque backdrop to promote wellness and mindfulness.
- Lamu Food Festival: This culinary celebration usually takes place in June, offering a taste of Swahili cuisine with seafood specialties, spices, and street food, accompanied by live music and cooking demonstrations.
- Lamu Arts Festival: Showcasing local artists, musicians, and performers, this festival is often held in August, featuring art exhibitions, music concerts, theater performances, and poetry readings to foster creativity and cultural exchange.
Tips to Visit Lamu Island
- Stock Up on Alcohol: Alcohol is expensive and only sold in restaurants and hotels on Lamu Island. So it's a good idea to buy what you need in Nairobi before you go.
- Respect Local Dress Code: Since Lamu is a conservative Muslim community, remember to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees when walking around the village.
- Protect Yourself from Bugs: If mosquitoes and sand flies bother you, visit the Peponi gift shop when you arrive to buy Natural Lamu mosquito repellent balm or oil.
- Bring a Flashlight: Since the pathways aren't lit at night, make sure to bring a flashlight if you'll be out after dark for safe navigation.
Best Time to Visit Lamu Island
How to Reach Lamu Island
How to Reach Overview
To get to Lamu Island, the only option is by boat. Manda Airport, located on Manda Island, is the closest airport to Lamu Island. From Manda Island, it's just a quick five-minute boat ride to Lamu Island. If you're coming from the mainland, you can take a ferry or boat from Mokowe Jetty, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
How to reach Lamu Island by flight
Manda Airport, situated on Manda Island, is the closest airport to Lamu Island. Daily flights from major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Malindi are operated by domestic airlines such as Airkenya Express, Safarilink, Fly 540, and Mombasa Safari Air. After landing at Manda Island, a quick boat ride, lasting about five minutes and costing around $1.45, connects travellers to Lamu Island. Ferries and boats are readily available at the shore or can be arranged through accommodations for convenience.
How to reach Lamu Island by road
Lamu Island is not directly accessible by road due to its island location. However, travellers can drive to Mokowe Jetty on the mainland and then take a boat to reach the island, which typically takes about 10 minutes. The drive from Mombasa to Mokowe Jetty lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, covering a distance of around 400 kilometres, while from Nairobi, it takes about 10 to 12 hours, covering approximately 600 kilometres.
How to reach Lamu Island by train
Lamu Island doesn't have a direct railway link. Instead, you can take a train from Nairobi to Mombasa, which takes about 6 to 9 hours. Then, travel by road from Mombasa to Mokowe Jetty, taking around 6 to 7 hours by taxi or bus.
How to reach Lamu Island by waterways
To get to Lamu Island by boat, travellers can hop on a short five-minute ride from Manda Island, costing about $1.45. Boats and ferries are easily found at the shore or arranged through accommodations. Manda Island acts as a convenient connection point for those arriving by air, offering quick access to Lamu Island.
From the mainland, travellers can reach Lamu Island by ferry or boat from Mokowe Jetty. The journey typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, with ferry tickets priced at approximately $5 to $10 per person for a one-way trip.
From the mainland, travellers can reach Lamu Island by ferry or boat from Mokowe Jetty. The journey typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, with ferry tickets priced at approximately $5 to $10 per person for a one-way trip.
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