Lamu Island offers a laid-back beach vibe, fantastic food, a vibrant art scene, and fascinating Swahili culture. Transport is almost entirely by donkey and traditional dhow — a genuine 'step back in time' and an ideal post-safari beach add-on.
Lamu at a glance
Lying just off Kenya's far north coast is a string of beautiful Indian Ocean islands — Lamu, Manda, Pate, Kiwayu, and Manda Toto — known collectively as the Lamu Archipelago. An area of archaeological and historical interest as well as great natural beauty, these islands offer a more tranquil, away-from-the-crowds Kenya beach holiday.
The mystical island of Lamu offers a laid-back beach vibe, fantastic food, a vibrant art scene, and fascinating Swahili culture. Transport on this almost care-free island is by donkey and traditional Arab dhows.
The perfect bush-and-beach destination
The ocean side of the island is fronted by an eight-mile-long deserted beach, with commanding dunes shielding coconut and mango plantations behind. At the heart of the island is the Old Town, where narrow winding paths and traditional Swahili architecture reflect the combined influences of Omani, Indian, and Portuguese merchants across a thousand years of spirited trade.
A small beach community, Shela, has developed within walking distance of the Old Town and has become a favourite refuge for celebrities and the European elite who don't want to be recognised. Lamu locals have welcomed visitors since the early white hunters began visiting after their long safaris of the 1920s and 30s.
Key reasons to visit
Unique history and architecture: explore Lamu Old Town, the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa, featuring coral-stone buildings, intricately carved wooden doors, and the 19th-century Lamu Fort.
Culture and atmosphere: a vibrant, traditional Swahili-Muslim culture where transport is on foot or by donkey — a slow-paced step back in time. Stunning beaches: the unspoiled white sands of Shela village and Manda Island.
Dhow sailing: traditional wooden dhows, especially a romantic sunset cruise. Yoga and relaxation: Lamu hosts an annual yoga festival and offers a peaceful, bohemian vibe. Cuisine: local Swahili food known for coconut and spice use, at spots like Mang Restaurant in the Old Town.
Quick facts
Lamu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its preservation of traditional Swahili culture and architecture. Architectural features include coral stone, mangrove timber, inner courtyards, verandas, and distinctive, elaborately carved wooden doors.
Because of the island's narrow, winding roads, residents commute on foot or by donkey — car use by the public is banned. Lamu's coral reefs form a rich marine ecosystem including mangroves and seagrass that host diverse species such as turtles, dugongs, and whale sharks.
When to visit and how
Activities include snorkeling and scuba diving (best November-March when water is clearest), historical walking tours, dhow sailing trips, sea kayaking, and dolphin diving.
Flying is the best way to reach the archipelago. The airport is on Manda Island, from where you'll be transferred to your hotel by boat. The island is ideal for visitors looking to detox from modern life.
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