Lamu Island embraces a laid back and slower pace of life, located just off Kenya's coast. There are no cars or roads, the primary mode of transport being donkeys and old dhow boats. Its population boasts an enchanting cultural mix of African, Arab and Indian.

Visitors will be enchanted by the historical beauty of the island as they make their way through the winding streets of its medieval stone town. The town of Lamu began life as a 14th century Swahili settlement, but the island's many visitors, including Portuguese explorers, Turkish traders and the Omani Arabs, have left their mark in the architecture and traditions.

Rolling dunes and pristine beaches with endless horizons offer exceptional photographic opportunities, whilst vibrant villages dot the landscape amongst coconut and mango plantations and locals ply their fishing trade on traditional dhows.

Destination Map

What to see and do

The island is a beautiful place of rolling dunes and endless beaches, where tiny villages nestle among coconut and mango plantations and lateen-sailed dhows ply the waters. Dense mangrove forests fringe the mainland and the inland areas of the island. Lamu boasts some of the most spectacular beaches with layers of white sand, traditional dhows and a pristine appearance. The most significant of these beaches is situated close to Shela village and consists of 12km of empty sands backing on to an ocean protected by a reef.

Spices and the smell of grilled food scent the air around the markets, museums, fort and ancient house. The winding streets of the towns are best explored on foot or by donkey, while shopping for local woodcarvings and batik.