Kenya’s Coastal Paradise
Lamu Island Kenya
Nestled along Kenya’s northern coast, Lamu Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its pristine beaches, rich Swahili culture, and centuries-old history. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a cultural experience, or a relaxing beach retreat, Lamu offers a unique blend of traditional charm and tropical paradise.
🌴 Why Visit Lamu Island?
✅ Rich Swahili Culture – Explore centuries-old traditions & architecture
✅ Unspoiled Beaches – White sandy shores & crystal-clear waters
✅ No Cars, Only Donkeys & Dhows – Tranquil & eco-friendly travel
✅ Historical Stone Town – Narrow alleyways, ancient mosques & coral stone houses
✅ Amazing Seafood & Cuisine – Fresh seafood, Swahili dishes, and aromatic spices
🌴 Top Things to Do in Lamu
1️⃣ Explore Lamu Old Town 🏛️
Walk through Lamu’s narrow streets and discover the town’s rich Swahili heritage
Visit Lamu Museum, Lamu Fort, and ancient mosques & Swahili houses
2️⃣ Relax on Shela Beach 🏖️
A serene, untouched beach with soft white sand and warm turquoise waters
Enjoy camel rides, sunset walks, or yoga retreats by the ocean
3️⃣ Traditional Dhow Sailing & Sunset Cruise ⛵
Glide through the Indian Ocean on a traditional Swahili dhow
Enjoy a magical sunset cruise with fresh seafood & drinks
4️⃣ Manda Island & Takwa Ruins 🏝️
Take a boat ride to Manda Island for secluded beaches & snorkeling
Explore the Takwa Ruins, a 15th-century abandoned Swahili settlement
5️⃣ Visit Matondoni & Kipungani Villages 🏘️
Experience authentic Swahili life in these traditional fishing villages
Watch local artisans make handcrafted dhows & woven mats
6️⃣ Lamu Cultural Festival & Maulid Festival 🎭
A vibrant celebration of Swahili culture, featuring dhow races, traditional dances, and donkey races
The Maulid Festival honors the birth of Prophet Muhammad with religious celebrations and feasts
Best Places to Stay in Lamu
Luxury: Majlis Resort, Peponi Hotel, Lamu House Hotel
Mid-Range: Banana House, Kizingo Lodge, Forodhani House
Budget: JamboHouse, Wildebeest Lamu, Amu House
📍 How to Get to Lamu Island?
✈️ By Air: Daily flights from Nairobi, Mombasa & Malindi to Lamu Airport (Manda Island)
🚤 By Boat: Short boat ride from Manda Island to Lamu Town or Shela
🍽️ Best Restaurants & Cuisine
🍤 Seafood Delights: Try grilled lobster, coconut prawns & octopus curry
🍛 Swahili Cuisine: Sample pilau rice, biryani, mahamri, and samosas
☕ Lamu Coffee Houses: Enjoy spiced Swahili coffee with sweet pastries
Best Time to Visit Lamu
June – October: Best weather, ideal for beach activities
November – March: Perfect for dhow cruises & cultural festivals
April – May: Rainy season, fewer tourists, lower prices
Book your Lamu Island beach holiday vacation with Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris
