On this article, I’ll share one of the best locations to go to and issues to do in Lamu, Kenya. These embody exploring an previous city, visiting museums, attending festivals, watching the sundown on a conventional dhow cruise, and easily stress-free on a seaside. This is likely one of the most stunning locations to go to in Kenya. Lamu is a magical and enchanting archipelago with 4 important islands – Kiwayu, Manda, Pate, and Lamu. It’s located alongside the northern coast of Kenya and options many sights together with forts, museums, and settlements courting again to the Twelfth century. In the event you’re visiting Kenya and are in search of issues to do outdoors of the safari nationwide parks and climbing trails, Lamu is a implausible coastal vacation spot to contemplate. Expertise the historical past, tradition, and heritage of the Swahili folks by historical buildings, dhows, delicacies, museums, festivals, and by interacting with the pleasant locals. As a local Kenyan who enjoys exploring less-traveled locations, Lamu is one in all my favourite locations to go to. It’s like stepping again in time when donkeys had been the only technique of transport and dhows dominated ocean routes. So, that can assist you plan your journey higher, I’ve ready this text for one of the best issues to do in Lamu. Finest Issues To Do in Lamu Lamu is wealthy in historical past, structure, and cultural heritage. It gives magnificent historic websites, pristine seashores, eating places, and pure sights. That will help you discover one in all my favourite locations in Kenya, listed below are 10 sights and prime issues to do in Lamu. 1. Discover Lamu Outdated City on Foot Kenya has a number of UNESCO World Heritage Websites, however none is extra spectacular than Lamu Outdated City. It’s the oldest Swahili settlement alongside the East African coast, and its folks nonetheless retain their traditions and tradition at this time. Strolling alongside the slender alleyways of Outdated City is likely one of the finest issues to do in Lamu. A stroll takes you previous historical buildings, historic websites, markets, and native outlets. Marvel at previous homes with carved doorways, coral stone partitions, and delightful rooftop patios. The day-to-day actions of the locals are positive to move you again to a time when commerce was blooming within the city as you wander round. Lamu Museum is my favourite place to be taught the historical past of this stunning place. It’s discovered within the coronary heart of Outdated City and hosts ethnographic displays of the native Swahili folks. It additionally homes artifacts and supplies that hyperlink the city with commerce throughout the Twelfth century. Along with Lamu Museum, you possibly can cease by the Lamu Fort and spot the Outdated German Submit Workplace. Deal with: Go to Lamu Museum and the Lamu Fort (Sultan’s Fort). Click on on every attraction for instructions. 2. Pattern the Scrumptious Swahili Dishes A visit to Lamu wouldn’t be full with out exploring Swahili delicacies and seafood. There are a number of locations within the archipelago serving coastal dishes at inexpensive charges, however one of the best eating places embody the Floating Bar & Restaurant, Seafront Cafe, and Mangrove Restaurant. So, whether or not you’re craving biryani (my favourite), wali wa nazi (coconut rice), or contemporary prawns, Lamu has all of it. Try any native restaurant in Lamu Outdated City for extra conventional dishes like pilau. I extremely suggest the Seafront Cafe. The restaurant serves scrumptious meals starting from biryani to grilled lobster and contemporary juices. Their seafront setting is good, and the ambiance is gorgeous – particularly within the night. Deal with: Click on right here for instructions to the Seafront Cafe. Additionally, examine our information to fifteen Should-Attempt Dishes in Kenya. 3. Attend the Lamu Cultural Competition Lamu hosts a number of festivals yearly. One among my favorites is the Lamu Cultural Competition which takes place from late November to early December. The 4-day occasion celebrates the cultural heritage of the archipelago. It contains samples of native meals, music, and conventional dances. Guests throughout the competition can participate in varied actions. These embody sampling scrumptious native dishes, dhow races, and experiencing the Swahili conventional ceremonies. I notably take pleasure in watching the dhow races. Locals race the gorgeous conventional boats within the ocean, providing spectators a really spectacular scene. In the event you’re visiting Lamu throughout this weeklong competition, make sure you additionally learn to play the Bao sport, hearken to Swahili poetry, or get your self a henna portray. Deal with: The Cultural Competition happens between Nov 30 – Dec 2 in Lamu Outdated City. 4. Stroll Alongside the Magnificent Shela Seashore In contrast to adventure-filled locations in Kenya like Masai Mara and Mount Kenya, Lamu is a slow-paced place to loosen up. Most vacationers go to this coastal city for its historical past and the seaside, and there’s no higher place to take in some solar than the magnificent Shela Seashore. The 12 km-long white sands and dunes assure moments of peace and serenity. You may stroll alongside the seaside, sunbathe on the sand, or sit nonetheless and watch the gorgeous sundown. In comparison with seashores in Mombasa and Diani, Shela Seashore lacks facilities akin to bogs and showers. Nonetheless, it’s probably the most peaceable and least crowded seashores in Kenya. Deal with: The seaside is finest accessed from Shela Village. Stroll previous the Peponi Lodge or the Seashore Home to get there from the Outdated City. 5. Go on a Sundown Dhow Cruise Lamu is likely one of the most stunning locations to go to in Kenya. With just a few vehicles round and donkeys roaming the streets, one of the simplest ways to discover the island is by foot. Wandering alongside the labyrinthine backstreets permits you to observe within the footsteps of locals and merchants who first set foot within the space. One other method to see the magic and fantastic thing about Lamu is by exploring its islands – Manda, Pate, and Kiwayu – by taking a dhow experience, (an historical Arab crusing boat), and cruising from Shela Village to any of those scenic spots. Evenings are notably magnificent. The sight of the orange-yellow African sundown makes Lamu a vacation spot you’ll bear in mind perpetually, and crusing between the islands invitations you to benefit from the breeze and consider how merchants made their method to Lamu from so far as Oman in these conventional dhows. Deal with: Dhows are one of many main technique of transport between islands in Lamu. You may ask your host or lodging facility to rearrange a visit with a good captain. 6. Go to the Donkey Sanctuary A Swahili proverb claims, “A person and not using a donkey is a donkey.”. Higher nonetheless, a saying goes, “A person who doesn’t maintain his donkey is a donkey.”. The latter is supposed to create consciousness about taking care of pack animals. Donkeys play a major position within the financial system and progress of Lamu. With out motorized vehicles and automobiles, the neighborhood depends on them for day-to-day actions. They transport folks, transfer items, and even carry constructing supplies across the stunning city. The Donkey Sanctuary was established by a Sidmouth-based group (by the identical identify) based by Dr. Elisabeth Svendsen, and along with providing medical providers to donkeys, the ability advocates for his or her higher welfare. When strolling alongside the Lamu Outdated City alleys, move by the sanctuary and study their trigger. It’s also possible to assist the initiative by donating, adopting a donkey, or shopping for a few of their merchandise. Deal with: The Donkey Sanctuary is located off Faza Kenyatta Street in Lamu Outdated City. Click on right here for the handle. 7. Expertise the Lamu Yoga Competition Even when you don’t know a lot about yoga and its many kinds, the Lamu Yoga Competition facilitates an all-new perspective. The 5-day occasion takes place in Shela Village and brings to life the close by Manda Island and Lamu Outdated City. This competition attracts guests from all around the world who’re captivated with yoga, well being, wellness, and meditation. In addition to taking yoga lessons, you possibly can take pleasure in different actions like dune walks, dhow meditation journeys, and even paddleboard yoga safaris. What I like most in regards to the occasion is that the organizers are eager on involving the neighborhood. With sponsors’ assist, the competition has raised funds to assist initiatives akin to Ubunifu (a neighborhood artwork heart in Maharani village). In addition they provide free yoga workshops and sanitation pads to ladies in Lamu. Deal with: For dates, applications, venues, and lodging choices, take a look at the Lamu Yoga Competition web site. 8. Attend the Maulid Competition Maulid or Maulidi is one other well-known competition in Lamu. The annual occasion takes place throughout the third month of the Islamic calendar to mark and have fun the beginning of Prophet Mohammed. Through the 3-day celebration, pilgrims and curious guests take pleasure in and participate in varied actions. Uncover music and dances, artwork exhibitions, recitals of reward poems, dhow races, and swimming competitions. The competition contains video games, a prayer vigil, and a narration of Prophet Mohammed’s life and deeds. It culminates with a parade (Zeffe) alongside the Outdated City’s slender streets. So, when you love experiencing totally different cultural practices and other people’s lifestyle, add the Maulid Competition to your bucket record. Deal with: The Maulid Competition takes place in Lamu Outdated City yearly throughout the third month of the Muslim calendar (normally on the Riyadha Mosque). 9. Go to Kiwayu Island and Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve Only a few folks journey additional than Pate Island. Nonetheless, when you’re daring and adventurous sufficient, take a ship experience to Kiwayu Island – probably the most stunning locations close to Lamu. The island is located north of Pate and near the unspoiled nationwide reserves of Dodori. The primary attraction right here is the Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve. This spectacular ecosystem is house to varied marine species like fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. In addition to uncommon sightings of dugongs, guests also can take pleasure in scuba diving, snorkeling, and browsing alternatives. Deal with: Kiwayu Island (and Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve) will be accessed from Lamu city through speedboat or dhow. The journey takes 2-7 hours. Whereas there, you possibly can keep at Mike’s Camp – one of the best lodging facility on the island. 10. Go to the Many Ruins Lamu is especially wealthy in ruins; most of that are stays of deserted settlements alongside the Swahili coast. Whereas their abandonment stays a thriller, some folks consider warring tribes attacked them. Others argue that it was due to silting up of the harbors. One of the well-known ruins and sights in Lamu is Takwa, a relic of a Sixteenth-century village located on Manda Island. In the event you’re a historical past lover like me, be certain that so as to add Takwa Ruins to your record of one of the best issues to see in Lamu. You’ll study Lamu’s historical past, structure, tradition, and other people’s lifestyle. Different historical ruins in Lamu embody Faza, Siyu Fort, and Shanga on Pate Island. Deal with: To go to Takwa Ruins, take a ship experience to Manda Island. It’s also possible to ask your lodging facility to assist set up your journey. Fast Journey Itineraries For Lamu Whether or not you’re on a decent schedule or you’ve gotten the posh of extra time, these fast itineraries will assist you to benefit from your journey to Lamu. They embody visiting museums, spending time on the seaside, and taking a dhow cruise. Your host or lodging can prepare journeys to locations and sights talked about in these itineraries. It’s also possible to have interaction locals (largely in eating places and on the primary jetty) for boat and dhow rides. 1 Day in Lamu Itinerary One of the best ways to spend 24 hours in Lamu is to discover its Outdated City on foot. Begin your day with espresso and snacks on the Whispers Cafe or Mangrove Restaurant. From there, stroll alongside the backstreets, and admire the city’s structure. Be certain to cease at Lamu Museum, Lamu Fort, and the Donkey Sanctuary. In case your journey coincides with one of many festivals, take part and expertise the wealthy tradition of the Swahili folks. On the finish of the day, take a ship experience for dinner on the Floating Bar and Restaurant. 2-3 Days in Lamu Itinerary Three days is lengthy sufficient to get a very good style of the Lamu Archipelago. Spend your first day exploring the Outdated City and visiting its historic websites. Observe the 1-day itinerary above. Start your second day by strolling or jogging alongside Shela Seashore earlier than it will get too heat. Head again to your resort for a late breakfast after which take a ship to Manda Island. Whereas right here, go to Takwa Ruins and luxuriate in some contemporary seafood at The Majlis Resort. Calm down at their seaside till night, and luxuriate in a dhow cruise to observe the sundown as you head again to your resort or guesthouse – in Shela, Manda, or Lamu. Spend your third day experiencing the adventurous facet of Lamu. You may go windsurfing, snorkeling, or tubing within the Indian Ocean. The Majlis Resort in Manda Island can prepare these actions for you. After the day’s thrill, go for dinner in one of many native eating places to culminate your journey to the archipelago. 1 Week in Lamu Itinerary You probably have seven days within the Lamu archipelago, you’ll have time to expertise the whole lot within the Outdated City and even take pleasure in a visit to Kiwayu Island. Spend your first two days wandering round Lamu Outdated City, a UNESCO World Heritage website with its slender alleyways and delightful coral stone homes. Go to the Lamu Museum, Riyadha Mosque, the Donkey Sanctuary, and the Lamu Fort. Spend the night strolling alongside Shela Seashore. Wrap up your day of exploration with a Swahili dish or seafood on the Seafront Cafe. On day three, embark on a day journey to Manda Island. Begin by exploring its historical ruins at Takwa after which loosen up at its magnificent seashores. Cease at both Majlis Resort or Diamond Seashore Village for meals earlier than taking a sundown dhow cruise. Take a full-day journey to Kiwayu Island on a dhow or pace boat in your fourth day, and keep at Mike’s Camp – a well-kept secret in a merely unforgettable location. Spend day 5 visiting the areas round Kiwayu Island. Go snorkeling, fishing, windsurfing, or exploring coral reefs at Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve. After an adventurous day in Kiwayu, head again to Lamu city or Manda Island on a ship. Discover the mangroves alongside the best way and look out for chook species akin to flamingos and storks. Whereas in Lamu Outdated City, revisit your favourite restaurant for dinner. Spend your final day in Lamu stress-free. Stroll alongside Shela Seashore, rejuvenate in a spa, or apply some yoga by the ocean – Banana Home and Wellness Heart is the right place to unwind. Bid Lamu farewell with a sundown dhow cruise or go memento buying. The place to Keep in Lamu Whether or not you’re touring on a finances or in search of luxurious lodging, Lamu has a keep for everybody. There are numerous services in Shela, Kiwayu, Manda, and Lamu Outdated City to select from. Regardless of in case your choice is a guesthouse, backpacker’s hostel, or boutique resort, listed below are just a few of one of the best locations to remain in Lamu for vacationers: Lamu Outdated City – Finest for First-Time Guests and Historical past Lovers Of all of the islands within the archipelago, Lamu Outdated City has extra sights. It additionally has lodging choices for every finances. A few of the finest services embody Jamala Guesthouse and Lamu Home. Click on right here to take a look at one of the best lodges, visitor homes, and villas in Lamu, Kenya. Whereas there, you possibly can go to museums, markets and marvel on the historical structure. The seaside (Shela) can be inside strolling distance, and Manda is lower than one hour away by boat. Shela Village – Finest for Solo Vacationers and Seashore Lovers Shela is a seaside village neighboring Lamu Outdated City. Attributable to its lengthy strip of unspoiled seashores and dunes, many guests want staying there. Right here, you’ve gotten an possibility of rustic Swahili homes, villas, and lodges starting from finances to luxurious. The very best services embody Peponi Lodge and Kijani Lodge. My favourite place to remain right here is the Banana Home and Wellness Centre. This distinctive home is surrounded by inexperienced gardens that present a wonderfully stress-free setting. It options rooms for each people and households, a swimming pool, a wellness heart, a restaurant, and spacious sitting areas. E book your keep right here. Manda Island – Finest for {Couples} and Households Manda is a quiet hideaway lower than an hour from Lamu Island. It’s calm and relaxed, providing guests an opportunity to have tranquility throughout their journey to the archipelago. The primary lodging services on this island are Diamond Seashore Village and The Majlis Resort. Majlis Resort is the primary characteristic of the island – and my favourite place to remain. The privately owned seaside resort options luxurious suites, 4 eating places, and different services to make your keep memorable. It’s additionally a launching spot for water sports activities and actions in Lamu. Whereas on the island, you possibly can go to Takwa Ruins (remnants of an historical coastal settlement) or go snorkeling at Manda Bay. A dhow cruise to observe the sundown and examine mangrove plantations can be effectively value your time. Kiwayu Island – Finest for Adventurer Seekers In the event you love venturing into less-traveled locations, your wanderlust could lead you to Kiwayu Island. The reward for this curiosity is a gorgeous, off-the-beaten-path location north of Lamu. Whereas right here, you possibly can discover the villages and launch your wild facet with some water sports activities. The close by Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve can be nice for snorkeling and windsurfing. There are few lodging services in Kiwayu. My favourite is Mike’s Camp. It will not be a five-star facility, but it surely options all of the facilities you’ll want for a cushty keep and gives a extra genuine expertise. It’s also possible to take a look at the Baobabs of Kitangani camp on the island’s northern finish, overlooking Mkokoni village and the round bay. In the event you’d wish to journey to Kiwayu, request your resort in Lamu or Manda to assist prepare the journey. There aren’t any public ferries, however hiring a speedboat or dhow is feasible. Finest Eating places in Lamu Though you’ll discover just a few locations to eat on the opposite islands, a lot of the Lamu Archipelago eateries are situated within the Outdated City. Lodging services akin to Majlis Resort on Manda have in-house eating places too, so that you don’t have to fret about going hungry. To provide you some concepts on locations to eat, my favourite eating places in Lamu are beneath: Floating Bar & Restaurant The Floating Bar & Restaurant is likely one of the few locations in Lamu the place you possibly can eat, drink, and celebration. In addition to its nice ambiance and very good ocean views, the restaurant gives high quality native and worldwide dishes. It additionally contains a trendy seating house to loosen up and luxuriate in a chilly drink. In the event you love native dishes, attempt their ugali (a starchy, polenta-like dish), served with fish and kachumbari (contemporary chopped salad). In addition they have glorious pizzas and samosas. The Seafront Cafe In the event you love genuine native vibes and dishes, cease by the Seafront Cafe. This modest restaurant serves contemporary seafood and Swahili dishes at inexpensive costs. In addition they have non-alcoholic drinks, soups, and juices. Check out their biryani served with coconut beans, beef curry, fish curry, or combined seafood (prawns, lobster, and Lamu crab). The Majlis Eating places The Majlis Resort has 4 in-house eating places that stand out attributable to their distinctive architectural design. Their delicacies ranges from scrumptious Swahili dishes to spicy Indian flavors and different worldwide meals, and the eating places are open to non-guests. Their components are sourced regionally from market distributors and fishermen, making certain the freshest of dishes. You may order something from fish and lobster to biryani and pizza right here. In the event you’re staying in Shela or Lamu Outdated City, make sure you take a ship to Manda Island for a bespoke culinary expertise at The Majlis. Moonrise Restaurant Moonrise Restaurant (a part of Lamu Home) is likely one of the finest locations to eat within the Outdated City of Lamu. It’s a spot the place flavors from throughout the globe come collectively, with an enthralling native twist. The menu is a pleasant journey by culinary cultures, starting from the intricate tastes of Italy to the genuine richness of Swahili delicacies. Regardless of your palate’s choice, the restaurant’s various array of dishes ensures there’s one thing to fulfill each style bud. A few of their finest dishes embody rooster in Swahili sauce, fish in coconut sauce, and pilau. In the event you’re touring in a gaggle, check out their biryani platter or tagliatelle seafood (with fish, prawns, and octopus sauce). Diamond Seashore Village The Diamond Seashore Village is a gorgeous place to remain in Lamu, and their restaurant is definitely value stopping by. It’s open all day for breakfast (oven-backed bread, mandazi, and chai) and light-weight lunches (tapas, pasta, and seafood salads). Dinner normally options pizza, Swahili dishes like wali wa nazi, and contemporary seafood. In addition they serve greens, fish fillets, vegan choices, and finely combined fruit juices. Their beachfront bar is good for a chilly beer as you watch the solar setting beneath the horizon. Different eating places in Lamu embody Whisper’s Cafe, Mangrove Restaurant, and Kijani Lodge Restaurant. Attending to Lamu Manda Island within the Lamu Archipelago has an airport served by flights from different airports in Kenya – Wilson (Nairobi), JKIA (Nairobi), and Moi (Mombasa). A few of the finest native airways from Nairobi and Mombasa to Lamu embody Jambojet, Fly Safarilink, and Skyward Specific. Prices for a one-way journey begin from $60 and take round an hour. There are a number of buses to Lamu when you’re in Malindi, Watamu, Kilifi, or different cities alongside the north coast. Tawakal Coaches is likely one of the finest corporations. They’ve each day departures from Mombasa to Lamu, and their fare is inexpensive. Nonetheless, there are occasional safety considerations in regards to the Malindi-Lamu overland route. Flying into Lamu is subsequently really useful. Getting Round Lamu Lamu city doesn’t have any public transport automobiles (owing to the slender roads). Nonetheless, like different islands within the archipelago, it’s small and, subsequently, simple to discover on foot. In the event you’re arriving at Manda Airport, you’ll must hop on a ship to succeed in any a part of the archipelago. Your resort or host can prepare the boat prematurely or you could find one on arrival. Shifting between the islands (Manda, Pate, Lamu Outdated City, and Kiwayu) can be accomplished by boat. Though it’s naturally slower than taking a pace boat, you possibly can rent a dhow for a extra scenic expertise. Issues To Do in Lamu: FAQs Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting and sightseeing in Lamu: What’s Lamu recognized for? Lamu archipelago is understood for its wealthy Swahili tradition and historical past, historical structure, and gorgeous seashores. The Twelfth-century vacation spot is house to a number of the best-preserved Swahili settlements alongside the East African coast. When is one of the best time to go to Lamu? Identical to most of Kenya, one of the best time of 12 months to go to Lamu is throughout the dry season – from June to early October. Is Lamu value visiting? Completely. Its distinctive mixture of historical past, structure, and tradition gives a really immersive expertise. The Outdated City’s UNESCO World Heritage standing attests to its magnificence and significance. What number of days ought to I spend in Lamu? To completely discover and admire Lamu sights and experiences, I like to recommend staying between 3 – 7 days. This permits time for exploring the previous city, having fun with the seaside, immersing your self within the native tradition, and island hopping. Is Lamu protected? Lamu is usually thought of protected for vacationers. Nonetheless, there have been safety points previously and the scenario can change at any minute. Like every vacation spot, taking warning and following journey advisories is important to make sure a protected and pleasing journey. What’s the hottest factor to do in Lamu? One of many prime issues to do in Lamu is wander by the Outdated City’s slender streets to see its distinctive structure and historic websites. Taking a sundown dhow cruise can be a must-do expertise. What’s the finest seaside in Lamu? Shela Seashore is one of the best seaside in Lamu. It gives a 12 km stretch of unspoiled dunes and white sands, and a tranquil, stress-free ambiance. That are the preferred festivals in Lamu? There are a number of annual festivals in Lamu. The preferred ones are Maulid Competition, Lamu Yoga Competition, and Lamu Cultural Competition. In Closing As you possibly can see, there are many free issues to do in Lamu. Nonetheless, the archipelago differs out of your typical vacation spot. It’s a secret paradise providing an intimate and memorable expertise. I hope you loved this text and that it’ll information you in planning your journey. Be certain to discover the Outdated City on foot in search of indicators of days passed by – in mosques, outlets, resort homes, museums, and forts. Markets and eating places are additionally nice locations to be taught in regards to the residents and their tradition. See extra articles about Kenya right here: High 10 Finest Seashores in Kenya 25 Finest Issues to Do in Nairobi 15 Finest Issues to Do in Mombasa Finest Issues to Do in Nakuru