Lamu Island provides a tranquil retreat, inviting visitors to embrace a slower pace of life amidst its unique Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European cultural tapestry. The destination offers a chance to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site, relax on pristine beaches, and experience traditional dhow sailing.
Opportunities to socialise are present throughout the island, particularly in Shela Village at venues like the Peponi Hotel, which is known for its lively atmosphere where diverse visitors and locals mix. Lamu Town's vibrant market and cultural events, including night markets, also provide avenues for interaction. For those seeking a more energetic social experience, full moon parties on Shela Beach are a notable highlight.
Top 7 Things to do in Lamu
Lamu offers a blend of historical exploration, relaxing beach experiences, and adventurous water-based excursions, providing an immersive journey into Swahili culture.
1. Explore Lamu Old Town
Wandering through Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals a maze of narrow alleyways, coral stone buildings, and intricately carved wooden doors. Exploring the Lamu Museum offers insights into the island's history and Swahili culture, while a visit to the Lamu Fort provides a glimpse into its past as a strategic trading post. The Donkey Sanctuary, a unique aspect of Lamu life given donkeys are the primary mode of transport, is also a recommended stop. Engage with local artisans in silversmithing and weaving shops for an authentic cultural interaction. It is advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to respect the local conservative culture.
Cost: A guided walking tour typically costs between $30 and $50 USD. Self-guided exploration is free, with Lamu Museum entry at approximately $10 USD per adult.
Transport: Lamu Old Town is best explored on foot. Donkeys are the traditional mode of transport, and water taxis are available for short distances along the waterfront.
2. Traditional Dhow Sailing
Experiencing a dhow cruise is a quintessential Lamu activity. Guests can opt for a serene sunset cruise, gliding along the archipelago while enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks, or embark on a full-day trip. Day trips often include snorkeling opportunities at coral reefs like Manda Toto or Kinyika Rock, with a freshly prepared seafood lunch served on board. These traditional wooden sailing boats offer a peaceful way to explore the surrounding islands and coastline.
Cost: A sunset dhow trip may cost around $50 USD per dhow (for up to 5 passengers). A full-day dhow trip, including lunch and snorkeling gear, is estimated at KES 15,000 (approximately $100-$120 USD, for 1-5 passengers).
Transport: Dhows depart from the waterfronts of Lamu Town and Shela Village.
3. Visit Takwa Ruins on Manda Island
A boat trip to Manda Island allows visitors to explore the Takwa Ruins, the remains of a 16th-century Swahili settlement. This half-day excursion offers a historical perspective on the region and a chance to walk along the tranquil Manda Island coast. The journey through mangrove channels adds to the scenic experience.
Cost: Typically included as part of a dhow day trip package, estimated around KES 15,000 (approximately $100-$120 USD, for 1-5 passengers), which often combines other Manda Island activities.
Transport: Accessible by dhow boat from Lamu Town or Shela, typically a 45-minute ride.
4. Relax and Walk on Shela Beach
Shela Beach offers miles of pristine white sand, ideal for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or a refreshing swim in the clear turquoise waters. For those seeking exercise, jogging along the expansive shoreline or climbing the nearby sand dunes behind Shela Village provides a rewarding physical activity and panoramic views of the area, including Manda Island.
Cost: Free.
Transport: Shela Beach is a short, scenic 45-minute walk along the waterfront from Lamu Town or a quick 10-minute boat ride costing approximately KES 100 per person.
5. Experience Water Sports
The calm waters around Lamu, particularly near Shela Beach and Manda Bay, are perfect for various water sports. Activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and water skiing can be arranged through local providers or hotels. Snorkeling offers the chance to observe vibrant reef fish and, with luck, sea turtles or dolphins in the marine reserve.
Cost: Snorkeling gear rental typically costs KES 300 (around $2-3 USD) per person. Costs for other water sports, including lessons and rentals, vary by activity and duration; inquire locally.
Transport: Activities are available directly from Shela Beach or can be accessed via short boat rides to Manda Island.
6. Visit Matondoni Village
A trip to Matondoni Village provides a unique insight into traditional Swahili craftsmanship. This village is renowned for its dhow building, where visitors can witness the age-old methods of constructing these iconic wooden sailing boats. It also offers a chance to see local artisans weaving straw mats from palm leaves and crafting coconut ropes, showcasing authentic coastal rural life.
Cost: Often part of a full-day boat tour around Lamu Island, which includes visits to other villages like Kipungani. Costs for such tours can be obtained from local boat captains or tour operators.
Transport: Matondoni Village is located on the northwest coast of Lamu Island and is accessible by boat, approximately 7.3 km west of Lamu Town.
7. Sunset Drinks at The Floating Restaurant
For a distinctive evening experience, enjoy a drink at the floating restaurant situated between Lamu and Manda islands. This unique venue offers an excellent vantage point for watching the sunset over the archipelago, providing a memorable and relaxed atmosphere.
Cost: Costs for drinks and food vary. A boat ride to the restaurant is around KES 500 (approximately $4-5 USD) per person.
Transport: Accessible by a short boat ride from Lamu Town or Shela Village.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
