2 days
Photo: Abubakarsule533, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsLamu Old Town
The coast · UNESCO World Heritage
Lamu is the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa, listed by UNESCO in 2001. Its stone houses, carved wooden doors and narrow lanes have changed little in centuries, and there are almost no cars: people get around on foot, by donkey or by dhow.
Lamu suits travellers looking for culture, history and slow days after a safari, rather than resort beaches.
Things to do
- Walk the old town: Get lost in the lanes behind the waterfront, past mosques, courtyards and carved doors.
- Lamu Museum and Lamu Fort: Swahili history, dhow building and coastal culture.
- Donkey Sanctuary: Caring for the island's working donkeys.
- Shela: A village with a long, empty beach backed by dunes, a short boat ride or walk from town.
- Dhow trip: Sail to Manda Island's Takwa ruins, snorkel, or watch the sunset from the water.
Getting there
Lamu's airport is on Manda Island, across a narrow channel. Flights from Nairobi take about an hour and a half, and a boat takes you to Lamu town or Shela in minutes. There are also flights from Mombasa and Malindi.
Is Lamu safe?
The UK advises against all but essential travel to most of Lamu County, but it specifically excludes Lamu Island and Manda Island, where the old town, Shela and the airport are. Always check your own government's latest advice before booking. See our Kenya safety guide.
Tip: Dress modestly in the old town, which is a conservative Muslim community, and ask before photographing people.
Practical information
| UNESCO listing | 2001 |
| Flights | About 1.5 hours Nairobi Wilson to Manda |
| Getting around | On foot, by donkey or by boat |
| Main beach | Shela, a short boat ride from town |
| Festivals | The Lamu Cultural Festival, usually in November |
Who it suits
Lamu suits travellers who enjoy history, architecture and a slow pace. It's not a resort: hotels are small, many in restored Swahili houses, and life follows prayer times and tides. For long sandy beaches and water sports, Diani is the easier choice.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Lamu Old Town
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Lamu Old Town: questions
Is Lamu safe to visit?
The UK advises against all but essential travel to most of Lamu County but excludes Lamu Island and Manda Island. Check your government's latest advice.
How do I get to Lamu?
Fly from Nairobi, Mombasa or Malindi to Manda Island, then take a short boat ride to Lamu town or Shela.
Why is Lamu a World Heritage Site?
UNESCO listed Lamu Old Town in 2001 as the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa.