On this article, I’ll share the most effective 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 conventional dhow cruise, and easily enjoyable on a seashore. This is among the most stunning locations to go to in Kenya. Lamu is a magical and enchanting archipelago with 4 vital islands – Kiwayu, Manda, Pate, and Lamu. It’s located alongside the northern coast of Kenya and options many points of interest 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 unbelievable 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 certainly one 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 most effective 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 points of interest. That will help you discover certainly one of my favourite locations in Kenya, listed below are 10 points of interest and prime 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 present. Strolling alongside the slender alleyways of Previous City is among the greatest 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 study 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 through the Twelfth century. Along with Lamu Museum, you may cease by the Lamu Fort and spot the Previous German Submit Workplace. Tackle: 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 most effective 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 suggest the Seafront Cafe. The restaurant serves scrumptious meals starting from biryani to grilled lobster and recent juices. Their seafront setting is sensible, and the ambiance is gorgeous – particularly within the night. Tackle: Click on right here for instructions to the Seafront Cafe. Additionally, test our information to fifteen Should-Strive Dishes in Kenya. 3. Attend the Lamu Cultural Competition Lamu hosts a number of festivals yearly. Certainly one 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 contains samples of native meals, music, and conventional dances. Guests through 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, make sure to additionally discover ways to play the Bao recreation, hearken to Swahili poetry, or get your self a henna portray. Tackle: The Cultural Competition happens between Nov 30 – Dec 2 in Lamu Previous City. 4. Stroll Alongside the Magnificent Shela Seaside 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 seashore, and there’s no higher place to absorb some solar than the magnificent Shela Seaside. The 12 km-long white sands and dunes assure moments of peace and serenity. You possibly can stroll alongside the seashore, sunbathe on the sand, or sit nonetheless and watch the attractive sundown. In comparison with seashores in Mombasa and Diani, Shela Seaside lacks facilities comparable to bathrooms and showers. Nonetheless, it’s one of the crucial peaceable and least crowded seashores in Kenya. Tackle: The seashore is greatest accessed from Shela Village. Stroll previous the Peponi Resort or the Seaside Home to get there from the Previous City. 5. Go on a Sundown Dhow Cruise Lamu is among 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 comply with within the footsteps of locals and merchants who first set foot within the space. One other method to see the magic and great thing about Lamu is by exploring its islands – Manda, Pate, and Kiwayu – by taking a dhow trip, (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 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. Tackle: Dhows are one of many major technique of transport between islands in Lamu. You possibly can 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 with out 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 economic system and progress of Lamu. With out motorized vehicles and autos, the group 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 scientific providers to donkeys, the ability advocates for his or her higher welfare. When strolling alongside the Lamu Previous City alleys, move by the sanctuary and study their trigger. You too can help the initiative by donating, adopting a donkey, or shopping for a few of their merchandise. Tackle: The Donkey Sanctuary is located off Faza Kenyatta Street in Lamu Previous City. Click on right here for the tackle. 7. Expertise the Lamu Yoga Competition Even should 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 everywhere in the world who’re obsessed with yoga, well being, wellness, and meditation. Moreover taking yoga courses, you may 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 group. With sponsors’ assist, the competition has raised funds to help initiatives comparable to Ubunifu (a group artwork middle in Maharani village). In addition they provide free yoga workshops and sanitation pads to ladies in Lamu. Tackle: For dates, packages, 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 through the third month of the Islamic calendar to mark and have a good time the delivery of Prophet Mohammed. In the course of 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 contains 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 slender streets. So, should you love experiencing completely different cultural practices and other people’s lifestyle, add the Maulid Competition to your bucket checklist. Tackle: The Maulid Competition takes place in Lamu Previous City yearly through 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. Nonetheless, should you’re daring and adventurous sufficient, take a ship trip to Kiwayu Island – one of the crucial 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 dwelling to varied 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. Tackle: Kiwayu Island (and Kiunga Marine Nationwide Reserve) might be accessed from Lamu city by way of speedboat or dhow. The journey takes 2-7 hours. Whereas there, you may keep at Mike’s Camp – the most effective 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 crucial well-known ruins and points of interest 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 that so as to add Takwa Ruins to your checklist of the most effective issues to see in Lamu. You’ll study 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. Tackle: To go to Takwa Ruins, take a ship trip to Manda Island. You too can 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 could have the luxurious of extra time, these fast itineraries will allow you to profit from your journey to Lamu. They embrace visiting museums, spending time on the seashore, and taking a dhow cruise. Your host or lodging can organize journeys to locations and points of interest talked about in these itineraries. You too can interact locals (principally in eating places and on the principle jetty) for boat and dhow rides. 1 Day in Lamu Itinerary One of the simplest ways 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 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 trip for dinner on the Floating Bar and Restaurant. 2-3 Days in Lamu Itinerary Three days is lengthy sufficient to get style of the Lamu Archipelago. Spend your first day exploring the Previous City and visiting its historic websites. Comply with the 1-day itinerary above. Start your second day by strolling or jogging alongside Shela Seaside 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 recent seafood at The Majlis Resort. Calm down at their seashore till night, and luxuriate in a dhow cruise to look at 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 possibly can 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 When you have seven days within the Lamu archipelago, you’ll have time to expertise all the pieces 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 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 Seaside. 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 Seaside 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 Seaside, rejuvenate in a spa, or follow some yoga by the ocean – Banana Home and Wellness Heart is the proper 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 amenities 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 most effective locations to remain in Lamu for vacationers: Lamu Previous City – Finest for First-Time Guests and Historical past Lovers Of all of the islands within the archipelago, Lamu Previous City has extra points of interest. It additionally has lodging choices for every funds. A number of the greatest amenities embrace Jamala Guesthouse and Lamu Home. Click on right here to take a look at the most effective accommodations, visitor homes, and villas in Lamu, Kenya. Whereas there, you may go to museums, markets and marvel on the historical structure. The seashore (Shela) can be inside strolling distance, and Manda is lower than one hour away by boat. Shela Village – Finest for Solo Vacationers and Seaside Lovers Shela is a seashore village neighboring Lamu Previous City. On account of its lengthy strip of unspoiled seashores and dunes, many guests favor staying there. Right here, you could have an choice of rustic Swahili homes, villas, and accommodations starting from funds to luxurious. The very best amenities 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. Ebook 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 amenities on this island are Diamond Seaside Village and The Majlis Resort. Majlis Resort is the principle characteristic of the island – and my favourite place to remain. The privately owned seashore resort options luxurious suites, 4 eating places, and different amenities to make your keep memorable. It’s additionally a launching spot for water sports activities and actions in Lamu. Whereas on the island, you may go to Takwa Ruins (remnants of an historical coastal settlement) or go snorkeling at Manda Bay. A dhow cruise to look at the sundown and look at mangrove plantations can be effectively price your time. Kiwayu Island – Finest 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 an exquisite, off-the-beaten-path location north of Lamu. Whereas right here, you may 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 amenities in Kiwayu. My favourite is Mike’s Camp. It is probably not a five-star facility, but it surely options all of the facilities you’ll want for a snug keep and gives a extra genuine expertise. You too can 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. Finest Eating places in Lamu Though you’ll discover a number of locations to eat on the opposite islands, a lot of the Lamu Archipelago eateries are positioned within the Previous City. Lodging amenities comparable to Majlis Resort on Manda have in-house eating places too, so that you don’t have to fret about going hungry. To present you some concepts on locations to eat, my favourite eating places in Lamu are beneath: Floating Bar & Restaurant The Floating Bar & Restaurant is among the few locations in Lamu the place you may eat, drink, and celebration. Moreover its nice ambiance and excellent ocean views, the restaurant gives high quality native and worldwide dishes. It additionally incorporates a trendy seating area to loosen up and luxuriate in a chilly drink. When you love native dishes, strive their ugali (a starchy, polenta-like dish), served with fish and kachumbari (recent chopped salad). In addition they have glorious 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. In addition they have non-alcoholic drinks, soups, and juices. Check out their biryani served with coconut beans, beef curry, fish curry, or blended seafood (prawns, lobster, and Lamu crab). The Majlis Eating places The Majlis Resort has 4 in-house eating places that stand out resulting from 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 possibly can order something from fish and lobster to biryani and pizza right here. When you’re staying in Shela or Lamu Previous City, make sure to take a ship to Manda Island for a bespoke culinary expertise at The Majlis. Moonrise Restaurant Moonrise Restaurant (a part of Lamu Home) is among the greatest 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 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 various array of dishes ensures there’s one thing to fulfill each style bud. A few of their greatest dishes embrace rooster in Swahili sauce, fish in coconut sauce, and pilau. When you’re touring in a bunch, check out their biryani platter or tagliatelle seafood (with fish, prawns, and octopus sauce). Diamond Seaside Village The Diamond Seaside Village is an exquisite place to remain in Lamu, and their restaurant is definitely price 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. In addition they serve greens, fish fillets, vegan choices, and finely blended fruit juices. Their beachfront bar is right for a chilly beer as you watch the solar setting beneath 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). A number of the greatest 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 should you’re in Malindi, Watamu, Kilifi, or different cities alongside the north coast. Tawakal Coaches is among the greatest corporations. They’ve day by day departures from Mombasa to Lamu, and their fare is reasonably priced. Nonetheless, there are occasional safety issues in regards to the Malindi-Lamu overland route. Flying into Lamu is due to this fact advisable. Getting Round Lamu Lamu city doesn’t have any public transport autos (owing to the slender roads). Nonetheless, like different islands within the archipelago, it’s small and, due to this fact, simple to discover on foot. When you’re arriving at Manda Airport, you’ll have to hop on a ship to succeed in any a part of the archipelago. Your resort or host can organize the boat upfront or you could find one on arrival. Transferring 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 may 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 dwelling to a number of the best-preserved Swahili settlements alongside the East African coast. When is the most effective time to go to Lamu? Identical to most of Kenya, the most effective time of 12 months to go to Lamu is through the dry season – from June to early October. Is Lamu price visiting? Completely. Its distinctive mixture of historical past, structure, and tradition gives 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 completely discover and admire Lamu points of interest and experiences, I like to recommend staying between 3 – 7 days. This enables time for exploring the previous city, having fun with the seashore, immersing your self within the native tradition, and island hopping. Is Lamu protected? Lamu is mostly thought of protected for vacationers. Nonetheless, there have been safety points up to now and the scenario can change at any minute. Like every vacation spot, taking warning and following journey advisories is crucial to make sure a protected and pleasant journey. What’s the hottest factor to do in Lamu? One of many prime issues to do in Lamu is wander by the Previous 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 greatest seashore in Lamu? Shela Seaside is the most effective seashore in Lamu. It gives a 12 km stretch of unspoiled dunes and white sands, and a tranquil, enjoyable environment. That are the most well-liked 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 may 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 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 study in regards to the residents and their tradition. See extra articles about Kenya right here: Prime 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
