Lamu Archipelago: The Lamu Archipelago is a stunning string of six islands in the Indian Ocean on Kenya's northern coast. The six islands that make up the Lamu Archipelago are: Lamu, Manda, Pate, Kiwayu and Manda Toto.

Lamu is 165 mi/265 km north of Mombasa. The island itself is a beautiful place of rolling dunes and endless beaches, where tiny villages nestle among coconut and mango plantations and dhows ply the waters.

The town of Lamu began life as a 14th century Swahili settlement, but the island has seen many visitors and influences, including Portuguese explorers, Turkish traders and the Omani Arabs. All left their mark, but Lamu developed its own particular culture, which has ultimately endured.

Lamu’s narrow streets remain unchanged, and in the markets and squares around the fort life moves at the same pace as it always has. There are no vehicles on this island (except 1 for the mayor), and the donkey and the dhow remain the dominant form of transport.

For the traveler, Lamu is a hypnotically exotic experience, made even more enjoyable by the relaxed and welcoming attitudes of the locals. This idyllic island speaks to the heart and soul, and a trip to Lamu is a romantic experience that can become a life long affair. Lamu is the perfect place for a beach safari with a difference, a truly unique destination that lingers long in the hearts of all who visit.

Getting Around - Lamu is best accessed by air. There are scheduled flights daily from Nairobi, Mombasa, Diani Beach and Malindi. The island is serviced by an airstrip on neighboring Manda Island. The strip can also be used by private charters. A dhow ferries arriving passengers to either Lamu town or Shela. Many yachts also come to Lamu, often sheltering in the channel near Shela.

To access the surrounding islands of Manda, Pate or Siyu, either take an organized Dhow Safari or for the adventurous traveler, just hitch a ride on a passing dhow and explore. It is also possible to hire donkeys to ride around the island.

Manda Island
Manda Island offers tropical vegetation and swaying palms with a beautiful stretch of virgin beach. Manda Island is an ideal place for romantic holidays or honeymoons.

They are two accommodations located on the Island. One offers an idyllic retreat for those wanting a quiet and exclusive setting with fine cuisine and a variety of activities and the other is a more affordable option that is the perfect place to come and relax in an Eco-friendly more rustic way. 

 

Lamu and surrounds activities:
Boating:
The waters of Lamu are plied by great numbers of traditional Dhows. These craft are an integral part of life on the island. A day spent at sea on a Dhow is a wonderful experience and a fantastic way to explore the area. The calm waters around Lamu are perfect for sailing, and the neighboring islands are well worth visiting for their small fishing villages, ancient ruins and deserted beaches. After a day on the water, you sail back to Lamu town as the setting sun turns the ocean to gold.

Longer Dhow safaris throughout the entire Archipelago can also be arranged.

Most hotels and guesthouses, as well as private Dhow captains, can organize a day cruising on a dhow.

SCUBA Diving and Snorkeling:
Private dhow trips from Lamu often visit good snorkeling sites, and provide equipment.

There are a few good dive sites to be found around Lamu and the surrounding archipelago. Diving is relatively new to the area, so there is a great bounty of quality sites are waiting to be explored by the adventurous diver.

Fishing:
Big game fishing can also be arranged from Manda Island, or by some hotels in Lamu in season (December- March). Kenya's main coastal game fish include Sailfish and Marlin, Kingfish, Wahoo, Horse Mackerel and others. A tag and release program ensures Eco-friendly fishing. Bookings for these trips can be made through some hotels in Lamu.

View our Kenya Suggested Itineraries or Kenya Beach & Safari Special Offers to get some ideas or email us to get a customized Kenya beach vacation quote now.