Lamu Island

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Shela beach in Lamu, Kenya.

© AlexanderXXI / Getty Images

Overview

With its centuries-old Swahili settlements, a couple of gorgeous beaches, and culture and architecture distinctive from what you encounter elsewhere along the Kenyan coast, Lamu is beguiling. Whether you're looking to lose yourself in the fragrant labyrinth of tiny streets in Lamu Town and spend hours admiring carved Omani and Swahili doorways, or whether you're looking for a peaceful beachfront stay replete with yoga, art and fusion food in Shela village, Lamu has something to satisfy most travellers.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • The Lamu Museum in Lamu, Kenya.

    Lamu Museum

    Lamu Island

    The best museum in town (and the second best in Kenya) is housed in a grand Swahili warehouse on the waterfront. This is as good a gateway as you’ll get…

  • Shela beach in Lamu, Kenya.

    Shela Beach

    Lamu Island

    Most people are here for the beach – a 12km-long, wide sweep of pristine white sand where you’re guaranteed an isolated spot (at least if you’re…

  • Kenya, Lamu Island, Lamu. A sailing boat (mashua) framed in an arch of Lamu Fort, which is now a museum.

    Lamu Fort

    Lamu Island

    This squat castle was built by the Sultan of Paté between 1810 and 1823. From 1910 right up to 1984 it was used as a prison. It now houses the island’s…

  • Household items in the Swahili House museum, Old Stone Town, Lamu, Kenya

    Swahili House

    Lamu Island

    This preserved 16th-century Swahili house, tucked away to the side of Yumbe Guest House, in a tranquil courtyard with a well, is beautiful. The entry fee…

  • Matondoni

    Matondoni

    Lamu Island

    The best place to see dhows being built is the village of Matondoni, in the island's northwest. It’s a peaceful little fishing village that receives few…

  • Donkey Sanctuary

    Donkey Sanctuary

    Lamu Island

    A man without a donkey is a donkey, claims one Swahili proverb. Or, as the staff of this sanctuary might tell you, a man who doesn’t look after his donkey…

  • German Post Office Museum

    German Post Office Museum

    Lamu Island

    In the late 1800s, before the British decided to nip German expansion into Tanganyika in the bud, the Germans regarded Lamu as an ideal base from which to…

  • Lamu Market

    Lamu Market

    Lamu Island

    Atmospheric and somewhat chaotic, this quintessential Lamu market is best visited early in the morning. Bargain for fresh tuna and sailfish, wade through…

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