Lamu Momabasa North Coast

Lamu Activities

Farther north of Mombasa is the Island town of Lamu, a place like no other, a peaceful tropical Island which is also part of the Lamu Archipelago made up of Manda, Pate and Kiwayu Islands. In Lamu, you experience and enjoy life on the slow lane, just as if time isn’t moving. Places to go and activities to do in Lamu are a reminder of how life has been centuries ago.

Fascinating Lamu History

Its history is as mysterious and fascinating as the winding streets of its medieval stone town. The Island itself is a beautiful place of rolling dunes and endless white sand beaches. Tiny Lamu villages nestle in the middle of coconut and mango plantations and traditional dhows on the Indian Ocean waters.

Lamu Old Town

But Lamu’s real attraction is its old town. The town began life as a 12th century Swahili settlement, but the Island has seen many visitors and influences, including Portuguese explorers, Turkish traders and the Omani Arabs. All left their mark, but Lamu developed its own culture, which has ultimately endured.

Lamu’s Narrow Streets

Lamu’s narrow streets remain unchanged, and in the markets and squares around the fort, life moves at the same pace as it has always been. There are no vehicles on this Island. Donkeys and dhows remain the dominant form of transport.

Lamu’s Stone Buildings

Leave your worries behind and start enjoying what Lamu has to offer. Walk through Lamu’s old town, the oldest town in East Africa characterized by narrow streets and magnificent stone buildings with impressive curved doors, influenced by unique fusion of Swahili, Arabic, Persian, Indian and European building styles.

Lamu Dhow Safaris

Embark on a day or overnight dhow safaris and cruises, swim and snorkel with dolphins or simply soak up Lamu’s sunshine. Other attractions and activities will take you to Lamu Museum housing rare ceremonial horns, furniture, jewellery, and other artefacts related to the history and culture of the Lamu archipelago. Lamu Fort, Mnarani and Riyadha Mosques and the donkey sanctuary are also worth your time.