Map of Lamu, Kenya

🏝️ What to Do in Lamu

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of Lamu with a variety of exciting activities to suit every traveler's preferences. From cultural tours to water sports, Lamu offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

• Best Budget Activity in Lamu:

  Shela Village Tour: Explore the historic streets and architecture of Shela Village with a guided tour to learn about the local culture and traditions.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Lamu:

  Dhow Sailing Excursion: Sail around Lamu's pristine waters on a traditional dhow boat and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and nearby islands.

• Best Luxury Activity in Lamu:

  Swahili Cooking Class: Indulge in a hands-on culinary experience with a Swahili cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Lamu

Lamu is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a delectable blend of Swahili and coastal flavors. Don't miss out on sampling freshly caught seafood, grilled meats, and spiced dishes during your visit to this cultural gem.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Lamu:

  Diamond Seafood Restaurant•Affordable:

  Fresh seafood dishes

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Lamu:

  Peponi Hotel Restaurant•Moderate:

  International and Swahili fusion cuisine

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Lamu:

  Majlis Restaurant•Upscale:

  Gourmet international cuisine

• Best Budget Bar in Lamu:

  Fatuma's Tower•Wallet-friendly:

  Fresh fruit juices and traditional Swahili snacks

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Lamu:

  Lamu House Bar•Reasonable:

  Signature cocktails and local beers

• Best Luxury Bar in Lamu:

  Lamu Island Breeze•Luxe:

  Fine wines and artisanal spirits

🕌 What to See in Lamu

Discover the historical and architectural wonders of Lamu by exploring its iconic landmarks that showcase the town's rich heritage and captivating beauty. From ancient ruins to vibrant markets, Lamu offers a treasure trove of sights waiting to be explored.

• Lamu Old Town:

  Step back in time as you wander through the narrow alleyways of Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Swahili architecture and centuries-old history.

• Lamu Fort:

  Visit the imposing Lamu Fort, a well-preserved structure that once served as a military stronghold and now houses a museum showcasing the region's cultural heritage.

• Takwa Ruins:

  Explore the hauntingly beautiful Takwa Ruins, an abandoned Swahili settlement nestled amidst lush vegetation on Manda Island, offering a glimpse into Lamu's past.

• Swahili House Museum:

  Dive into Lamu's Swahili culture at the Swahili House Museum, where you can admire traditional artifacts, intricate woodwork, and exhibits highlighting local traditions.

• Shela Beach:

  Relax and unwind at picturesque Shela Beach, known for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean - the perfect spot for a tranquil escape.

🛍️ Where to Go Shopping in Lamu

Shopaholics rejoice in Lamu, where vibrant markets and quaint boutiques offer a diverse range of unique treasures to take home as souvenirs of your visit. From handcrafted goods to colorful textiles, Lamu is a shopper's paradise waiting to be explored.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Lamu:

  Lamu Market: Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Lamu Market, where you can haggle for local produce, spices, fabrics, and handcrafted items at bargain prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Lamu:

  Taarab Music Store: Immerse yourself in Lamu's musical heritage at Taarab Music Store, where you can shop for traditional instruments, music recordings, and eclectic souvenirs.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Lamu:

  Peponi Hotel Boutique: Indulge in high-end shopping at Peponi Hotel Boutique, offering a curated selection of stylish clothing, accessories, and home decor items for the discerning traveler.

🚐 Getting Around Lamu

• Public Transport

  In Lamu, public transportation is primarily served by buses and matatus, which are shared minivans. Matatus are a popular and inexpensive way to get around the town and its environs. They operate on set routes and fares are generally affordable, ranging from 50-100 Kenyan Shillings depending on the distance traveled. Buses are also available for longer distances and trips to neighboring towns.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Lamu does not have a train station or airport, but Manda Airport located on Manda Island serves as the main entry point for visitors flying into the area. From there, you can take a short boat or ferry ride to Lamu Town. For those arriving by bus, the main bus terminus is located near the waterfront in Lamu Town, making it easily accessible for travelers.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies operate in Lamu, offering a range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs. Providers such as Lamu Car Hire and Lamu Tours & Safaris offer competitive rates starting from 3,000 Kenyan Shillings per day. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For a more eco-friendly way to get around, bicycle rentals are a popular option in Lamu. Companies like Lamu Cycling Adventures provide well-maintained bikes for rent at approximately 500 Kenyan Shillings per day. Cycling around the narrow streets and pathways of Lamu allows you to experience the local culture up close and personal.