On this article, I’ll share the perfect locations to go to and issues to do in Lamu, Kenya. These embrace exploring an previous city, visiting museums, attending festivals, watching the sundown on a standard dhow cruise, and easily enjoyable on a seaside. This is without doubt one of the most stunning places to visit 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. When you’re visiting Kenya and are in search of issues to do exterior of the safari nationwide parks and mountaineering trails, Lamu is a implausible coastal vacation spot to think about. Expertise the historical past, tradition, and heritage of the Swahili folks by means of 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 every of my favourite locations to go to. It’s like stepping again in time when donkeys had been the only real technique of transport and dhows dominated ocean routes. So, that can assist you plan your journey higher, I’ve ready this text for the perfect issues to do in Lamu. Greatest Issues To Do in Lamu Lamu is wealthy in historical past, structure, and cultural heritage. It provides magnificent historic websites, pristine seashores, eating places, and pure sights. That will help you discover one in every of my favourite locations in Kenya, listed below are 10 sights and high issues to do in Lamu. 1. Discover Lamu Previous City on Foot Kenya has a number of UNESCO World Heritage Websites, however none is extra spectacular than Lamu Previous 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 slim alleyways of Previous City is without doubt 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 certain 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 Previous 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’ll be able to cease by the Lamu Fort and spot the Previous German Put up 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 reasonably priced charges, however the perfect eating places embrace 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 recent prawns, Lamu has all of it. Try any native restaurant in Lamu Previous City for extra conventional dishes like pilau. I extremely advocate the Seafront Cafe. The restaurant serves scrumptious meals starting from biryani to grilled lobster and recent 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, verify our information to fifteen Should-Strive Dishes in Kenya. 3. Attend the Lamu Cultural Competition Lamu hosts a number of festivals yearly. One in every of 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 consists of samples of native meals, music, and conventional dances. Guests throughout the competition can participate in numerous actions. These embrace sampling scrumptious native dishes, dhow races, and experiencing the Swahili conventional ceremonies. I significantly take pleasure in watching the dhow races. Locals race the attractive conventional boats within the ocean, providing spectators a very spectacular scene. When you’re visiting Lamu throughout this weeklong competition, be sure you additionally learn to play the Bao sport, take heed to Swahili poetry, or get your self a henna portray. Deal with: The Cultural Competition happens between Nov 30 – Dec 2 in Lamu Previous City. 4. Stroll Alongside the Magnificent Shela Seashore Not like adventure-filled locations in Kenya like Masai Mara and Mount Kenya, Lamu is a slow-paced place to chill out. Most vacationers go to this coastal city for its historical past and the seaside, and there’s no higher place to absorb some solar than the magnificent Shela Seashore. The 12 km-long white sands and dunes assure moments of peace and serenity. You’ll be able to stroll alongside the seaside, sunbathe on the sand, or sit nonetheless and watch the attractive sundown. In comparison with beaches in Mombasa and Diani, Shela Seashore lacks facilities comparable to bogs and showers. Nevertheless, it’s probably the most peaceable and least crowded beaches in Kenya. Deal with: The seaside is finest accessed from Shela Village. Stroll previous the Peponi Resort or the Seashore Home to get there from the Previous City. 5. Go on a Sunset Dhow Cruise Lamu is without doubt one of the most stunning locations to go to in Kenya. With only some automobiles round and donkeys roaming the streets, one of the best ways to discover the island is by foot. Wandering alongside the labyrinthine backstreets means that you can comply with within the footsteps of locals and merchants who first set foot within the space. One other solution to see the magic and great 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 significantly magnificent. The sight of the orange-yellow African sundown makes Lamu a vacation spot you’ll keep in mind ceaselessly, and crusing between the islands invitations you to benefit from the breeze and consider how merchants made their solution 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’ll be able to 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 care for his donkey is a donkey.”. The latter is supposed to create consciousness about taking care of pack animals. Donkeys play a major function within the economic system and development of Lamu. With out motorized automobiles 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 title) based by Dr. Elisabeth Svendsen, and along with providing scientific providers to donkeys, the ability advocates for his or her higher welfare. When strolling alongside the Lamu Previous City alleys, go by the sanctuary and find out about 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 Previous City. Click on right here for the deal with. 7. Expertise the Lamu Yoga Competition Even in the event 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 Previous City. This competition attracts guests from all around the world who’re passionate about yoga, well being, wellness, and meditation. Moreover taking yoga lessons, you’ll be able to 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 comparable to Ubunifu (a neighborhood artwork middle in Maharani village). Additionally they provide free yoga workshops and sanitation pads to ladies in Lamu. Deal with: For dates, applications, venues, and lodging choices, try 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 a good time the delivery of Prophet Mohammed. Throughout the 3-day celebration, pilgrims and curious guests take pleasure in and participate in numerous actions. Uncover music and dances, artwork exhibitions, recitals of reward poems, dhow races, and swimming competitions. The competition consists of video games, a prayer vigil, and a narration of Prophet Mohammed’s life and deeds. It culminates with a parade (Zeffe) alongside the Previous City’s slim streets. So, in the event you love experiencing completely different cultural practices and other people’s lifestyle, add the Maulid Competition to your bucket checklist. Deal with: The Maulid Competition takes place in Lamu Previous City yearly throughout the third month of the Muslim calendar (often on the Riyadha Mosque). 9. Go to Kiwayu Island and Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve Only a few folks journey additional than Pate Island. Nevertheless, in the event 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 principle attraction right here is the Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve. This spectacular ecosystem is dwelling to numerous marine species like fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. Moreover uncommon sightings of dugongs, guests may also take pleasure in scuba diving, snorkeling, and browsing alternatives. Deal with: Kiwayu Island (and Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve) could be accessed from Lamu city by way of speedboat or dhow. The journey takes 2-7 hours. Whereas there, you’ll be able to keep at Mike’s Camp – the perfect 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 imagine warring tribes attacked them. Others argue that it was due to silting up of the harbors. One of the vital well-known ruins and sights in Lamu is Takwa, a relic of a Sixteenth-century village located on Manda Island. When you’re a historical past lover like me, be sure so as to add Takwa Ruins to your checklist of the perfect issues to see in Lamu. You’ll find out about Lamu’s historical past, structure, tradition, and other people’s lifestyle. Different historical ruins in Lamu embrace 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 arrange your journey. Fast Journey Itineraries For Lamu Whether or not you’re on a decent schedule or you’ve the luxurious of extra time, these fast itineraries will enable you take advantage of your journey to Lamu. They embrace visiting museums, spending time on the seaside, and taking a dhow cruise. Your host or lodging can organize journeys to locations and sights talked about in these itineraries. It’s also possible to have interaction locals (principally in eating places and on the primary jetty) for boat and dhow rides. 1 Day in Lamu Itinerary The easiest way to spend 24 hours in Lamu is to discover its Previous City on foot. Begin your day with espresso and snacks on the Whispers Cafe or Mangrove Restaurant. From there, stroll alongside the backstreets, and respect 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 Previous 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 revel in some recent seafood at The Majlis Resort. Chill out at their seaside till night, and revel 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’ll be able to go windsurfing, snorkeling, or tubing within the Indian Ocean. The Majlis Resort in Manda Island can organize 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 all the things within the Previous City and even take pleasure in a visit to Kiwayu Island. Spend your first two days wandering round Lamu Previous City, a UNESCO World Heritage website with its slim 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 chill out 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 chicken species comparable to flamingos and storks. Whereas in Lamu Previous City, revisit your favourite restaurant for dinner. Spend your final day in Lamu enjoyable. Stroll alongside Shela Seashore, rejuvenate in a spa, or observe 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 procuring. The place to Keep in Lamu Whether or not you’re touring on a funds or in search of luxurious lodging, Lamu has a keep for everybody. There are numerous services in Shela, Kiwayu, Manda, and Lamu Previous City to select from. Regardless of in case your desire is a guesthouse, backpacker’s hostel, or boutique resort, listed below are a number of of the perfect locations to remain in Lamu for vacationers: Lamu Previous City – Greatest for First-Time Guests and Historical past Lovers Of all of the islands within the archipelago, Lamu Previous City has extra sights. It additionally has lodging choices for every funds. Among the finest services embrace Jamala Guesthouse and Lamu Home. Click on right here to take a look at the perfect inns, visitor homes, and villas in Lamu, Kenya. Whereas there, you’ll be able to 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 – Greatest for Solo Vacationers and Seashore Lovers Shela is a seaside village neighboring Lamu Previous City. Attributable to its lengthy strip of unspoiled seashores and dunes, many guests favor staying there. Right here, you’ve an choice of rustic Swahili homes, villas, and inns starting from funds to luxurious. The very best services embrace Peponi Resort and Kijani Resort. 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 superbly enjoyable setting. It options rooms for each people and households, a swimming pool, a wellness middle, a restaurant, and spacious sitting areas. E book your keep right here. Manda Island – Greatest 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 principle lodging services on this island are Diamond Seashore Village and The Majlis Resort. Majlis Resort is the primary function 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’ll be able to 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 properly value your time. Kiwayu Island – Greatest for Adventurer Seekers When you love venturing into less-traveled locations, your wanderlust could lead you to Kiwayu Island. The reward for this curiosity is a lovely, off-the-beaten-path location north of Lamu. Whereas right here, you’ll be able to 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, nevertheless it options all of the facilities you’ll want for a snug keep and provides a extra genuine expertise. It’s also possible to try the Baobabs of Kitangani camp on the island’s northern finish, overlooking Mkokoni village and the round bay. When you’d prefer to journey to Kiwayu, request your resort in Lamu or Manda to assist organize the journey. There aren’t any public ferries, however hiring a speedboat or dhow is feasible. Greatest Eating places in Lamu Though you’ll discover a number of locations to eat on the opposite islands, many of the Lamu Archipelago eateries are positioned within the Previous City. Lodging services comparable 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 under: Floating Bar & Restaurant The Floating Bar & Restaurant is without doubt one of the few locations in Lamu the place you’ll be able to eat, drink, and celebration. Moreover its nice ambiance and excellent ocean views, the restaurant provides high quality native and worldwide dishes. It additionally encompasses a fashionable seating house to chill out and revel in a chilly drink. When you love native dishes, attempt their ugali (a starchy, polenta-like dish), served with fish and kachumbari (recent chopped salad). Additionally they have wonderful pizzas and samosas. The Seafront Cafe When you love genuine native vibes and dishes, cease by the Seafront Cafe. This modest restaurant serves recent seafood and Swahili dishes at reasonably priced costs. Additionally 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 as a consequence of 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 elements are sourced regionally from market distributors and fishermen, making certain the freshest of dishes. You’ll be able to order something from fish and lobster to biryani and pizza right here. When you’re staying in Shela or Lamu Previous City, be 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 without doubt one of the finest locations to eat within the Previous City of Lamu. It’s a spot the place flavors from throughout the globe come collectively, with a captivating native twist. The menu is a pleasant journey by means of culinary cultures, starting from the intricate tastes of Italy to the genuine richness of Swahili delicacies. Regardless of your palate’s desire, the restaurant’s numerous array of dishes ensures there’s one thing to fulfill each style bud. A few of their finest dishes embrace hen in Swahili sauce, fish in coconut sauce, and pilau. When 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 lovely 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 lightweight lunches (tapas, pasta, and seafood salads). Dinner often options pizza, Swahili dishes like wali wa nazi, and recent seafood. Additionally they serve greens, fish fillets, vegan choices, and finely combined fruit juices. Their beachfront bar is right for a chilly beer as you watch the solar setting under the horizon. Different eating places in Lamu embrace Whisper’s Cafe, Mangrove Restaurant, and Kijani Resort 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). Among the finest native airways from Nairobi and Mombasa to Lamu embrace Jambojet, Fly Safarilink, and Skyward Categorical. Prices for a one-way journey begin from $60 and take round an hour. There are a number of buses to Lamu in the event you’re in Malindi, Watamu, Kilifi, or different cities alongside the north coast. Tawakal Coaches is without doubt one of the finest firms. They’ve each day departures from Mombasa to Lamu, and their fare is reasonably priced. Nevertheless, there are occasional safety issues in regards to the Malindi-Lamu overland route. Flying into Lamu is subsequently advisable. Getting Round Lamu Lamu city doesn’t have any public transport automobiles (owing to the slim roads). Nevertheless, like different islands within the archipelago, it’s small and, subsequently, straightforward to discover on foot. When 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 organize the boat prematurely or you could find one on arrival. Shifting between the islands (Manda, Pate, Lamu Previous City, and Kiwayu) can be carried out by boat. Though it’s naturally slower than taking a pace boat, you’ll be able to rent a dhow for a extra scenic expertise. Issues To Do in Lamu: FAQs Listed below 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 beautiful seashores. The Twelfth-century vacation spot is dwelling to a few of the best-preserved Swahili settlements alongside the East African coast. When is the perfect time to go to Lamu? Similar to most of Kenya, the perfect time of yr 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 provides a very immersive expertise. The Previous City’s UNESCO World Heritage standing attests to its magnificence and significance. What number of days ought to I spend in Lamu? To totally discover and respect 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-about protected for vacationers. Nevertheless, there have been safety points up to now and the state of affairs can change at any minute. Like several vacation spot, taking warning and following journey advisories is important to make sure a protected and fulfilling journey. What’s the hottest factor to do in Lamu? One of many high issues to do in Lamu is wander by means of the Previous City’s slim 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 the perfect seaside in Lamu. It provides a 12 km stretch of unspoiled dunes and white sands, and a tranquil, enjoyable environment. That are the preferred festivals in Lamu? There are a number of annual festivals in Lamu. The most well-liked ones are Maulid Competition, Lamu Yoga Competition, and Lamu Cultural Competition. In Closing As you’ll be able to see, there are many free issues to do in Lamu. Nevertheless, 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 Previous 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 Greatest Seashores in Kenya 25 Greatest Issues to Do in Nairobi 15 Greatest Issues to Do in Mombasa Greatest Issues to Do in Nakuru
