Things To Do In Lamu For Friends & Family With Kids

Things To Do In Lamu.
Lamu Ia a small town located in the Island of Lamu within the Republic of Kenya. It has a sleepy and bohemian vibe, and its tranquil retreats are surrounded by the stunning landscapes of mangrove forests, remote islands, atolls, and hidden lagoons. Lamu, untouched by mass tourism, is a hidden treasure in Kenya.

Many activities in Lamu reflect the region’s rich history. The medieval Swahili settlements, characterized by their distinctive coral-stone houses and the overgrown remains of ancient forts, evoke a time when Lamu was a vibrant crossroads for Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

Today, the atmosphere is serene, offering long beach walks, dhow sailing, opportunities for people-watching, and the chance to explore eclectic hotels for those seeking genuine experiences.
Things To Do In Lamu

DISCOVER THE TIGHT ALLEYS OF LAMU TOWN
Lamu Town, established in the 12th century, holds the distinction of being Kenya’s oldest continuously inhabited Swahili town, rivaled only by Zanzibar, located more than 250 miles to the south off Tanzania’s coast. The town offers a unique and captivating atmosphere, featuring a historic fort, tranquil residences embellished with intricately carved wooden doors, common donkeys, and lively markets. It’s no surprise that UNESCO has designated it as a World Heritage Site.

Things To Do In Lamu

STROLL ON UNCHARTED COASTS
The stunning white sandy beaches of Lamu are truly remarkable, which is why they are included on our list. The ideal places for beach walks are located a few kilometers south of Lamu Town, at the island’s eastern tip where the channel meets the ocean, particularly around Shela village. Shela consists mainly of a picturesque waterfront and winding sandy paths. In this area, you’re always close to sandy dunes and unspoiled beaches.

SAIL ON A CLASSIC DHOW
In Lamu, dhows and donkeys are the sole means of transportation (the island has only two cars: one is used by the governor for official events, while the other is an ambulance… for the donkeys). It’s essential to rent a dhow for a relaxing cruise around the archipelago. We enjoyed a lovely trip aboard a beautiful boat with the crew from the Red Pepper House.

Things To Do In Lamu

RENT A CHARMING SWAHILI TOWNHOUSE
Shela village attracts numerous Western expatriates and is a favored spot for occasional celebrities, drawn by the serene village lifestyle and the opportunity to relax.
In truth, most townhouses in Shela are owned by foreigners, many of which have been beautifully renovated into guesthouses full of character and authenticity. These properties significantly contribute to Lamu’s uniqueness, with the particularly stunning Jaha House being a highlight of our stay.

EXPLORE SHELA VILLAGE
During your time in Shela, you’ll likely find yourself wandering through the sandy maze of pathways that make up this small community. The narrow alleys, just wide enough for a donkey, weave between tall stone buildings, quaint thatched cottages, several mosques, and remnants of old structures. In the center of the village lies a spacious square surrounded by market stalls.

Things To Do In Lamu

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INDULGE IN SWAHILI CUISINE
The trade connections between Lamu and places like Oman, Zanzibar, and India not only introduced new goods and architectural styles but also transformed the local culinary landscape. This exchange resulted in a distinct and refined combination of African and Eastern flavors, far more intricate than the simple diet of mainland Africa.
Dishes such as biryanis, curries, couscous, and pasta, as well as coconut rice paired with mango chutney, showcase a diverse array of tastes enriched by spices like cinnamon, clove, and cumin, all complemented by fresh coconut milk.

SUNSET VIEWS ON MANDA ISLAND
Located just across the channel from Shela, the largely uninhabited Manda Island offers some of the finest locations for witnessing the breathtaking African sunset as it descends behind Lamu Island. Facing the village and the Fort of Shela, the expansive, pristine, palm-lined beaches of Ras Kitau are a highlight of the Lamu region. You can also savor sunset drinks in delightful surroundings, such as at The Majlis, where we enjoyed our stay.

Things To Do In Lamu

EXPLORE THE ANCIENT CITY OF TAKWA
Manda Island was once home to one of the largest settlements along the Kenyan coast, but this vibrant community vanished in the 17th century. The reasons for their disappearance are still disputed, although it is widely believed that a shortage of fresh water on the island played a significant role. Currently, the coral stone ruins attract many visitors for day trips from Lamu or Shela.

POP INTO THE VEGETABLE MARKET FOR PEOPLE-WATCHING
The narrow streets of Lamu Town have remained unchanged for centuries, preserving a pace of life that is consistent with the past. The island’s Muslim inhabitants continue to follow the lifestyle of their forebears, though one significant difference is that tourism now drives the local economy. Despite this shift, the traditional markets primarily serve the local population, making them some of the island’s most genuine spots.

Things To Do In Lamu

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AT THE CORE: “POLE-POLE”
This Kiswahili expression means “take it slowly” and influences every facet of life in Lamu. Whether you’re cooking or sailing, you embrace a leisurely pace—it’s the essence of the pole-pole lifestyle. Time appears to slow down in Lamu, almost as if it has come to a standstill. A visit here is reminiscent of stepping back in time, reflecting Lamu’s golden days as a vibrant cultural hub and a bustling medieval port.