On the northern coast of Kenya lies Lamu, the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. Lamu Island was founded in the 14th century when it flourished as an important trade and religious center on the East African coast.
Over the centuries, the island welcomed traders from various cultures, including African, Arabic, Indian, and Portuguese, which influenced the distinct Swahili culture. You’ll find traces of this unique mix of cultural influences around the Lamu Old Town in the architectural designs, cuisine, religion, and cultural festivals.
Lamu Old Town was named a World Heritage Site by the UN thanks to its well-preserved cultural and religious significance. A stroll through the town takes you through narrow winding streets flanked by stone buildings with curved doors.
Away from the old town of Lamu, on the southern end of the island, is Shela village. Shela is a more recent settlement that’s been around since the 18th century. This is where you’ll find the only beach on Lamu, a 12km white sandy coastal stretch that’s completely uninhabited.
Shela Beach is the ideal place to get away to relax and enjoy a stroll along the azure Indian Ocean without bumping into crowds of tourists.
Across the channel from Shela Beach is Manda Island. From here, you can get a breathtaking sight of the sun setting behind Lamu Old Town. This mostly uninhabited island—with only resorts and hotels by the beach—is another ideal getaway for a relaxed coastal holiday.
Manda is home to the ruined city of Takwa, an abandoned Swahili settlement that thrived between 1500-1700 as a trade and religious center. In the early 18th century, residents abandoned it due to a lack of fresh water. The greatest attraction here is the ruins of the Great Mosque of Takwa, which are well-preserved.
Besides the attractions on Lamu Island, a visit here allows you to experience the unique laid-back lifestyle of the locals, summed up in Swahili as ‘Pole Pole,’ meaning take it slowly. Borrow this philosophy as you stroll around Lamu to savor and enjoy everything this Kenyan coastal paradise has to offer.