Lamu Island
Lamu “Fascinating trip into the past”
Brief History
Founded in the 7th century, Lamu still reflects the typical picture of the old Arabic dhow ports. Not only the Swahili culture has its roots in Lamu but hand- finished, richly-carved furniture and doors. Old 18th century stone houses, women dressed in the traditional bui-bui, donkey caravans, fishermen in their dhows with huge triangular sails giving the atmosphere of the busy days of the past.
The narrow streets do not allow any other traffic other than the almost 4000 donkeys which are taking the place of cars, lorries and taxis. Perhaps, once or twice a day, one will encounter the islands only car driving along the seashore. Lamu is the starting point for the famous Island-Hopping, trips with dhows and boats to Pate Island or Manda Island with its enormous white sandy beach and the ancient town ruins of Takwa.
Kipungani Bay
It is rustic and natural, ideal for letting the breezes and the views are part of the scene. In the lounge and bar area are enormous brightly covered cushions piled up in seeming abandon but inviting you to flop and order a cool drink. Sun bleached driftwood furniture; shells and beach paraphernalia decorate the decked terrace together with inviting hanging moon beds with yet more brightly colored cushions. Just 15 beach cottages or grassy villas are well spaced along the beach and have been ingeniously positioned to ensure maximum privacy.
The walls and floor are made from local palm leaf mats called Mikeka and the coconut-thatched roof (thatched makuti) in Swahili has been pitched high enough to make the most of the cool trade winds. The ample bedroom has a king-size bed draped with mosquito netting and the balcony facing the ocean, is a private lounge and is furnished only for comfort.
Kiwayu Island
It is a taste of real honey, a place to disappear in and restore your entire soul. Miles of deserted beaches with soft white sand, the sensual sound of waves lapping the shore of this beautiful bay slowly softens your senses and leads you back to nature’s old rhythms. Nestling amongst the mainland dunes, the oasis of Kiwayu overlooks a sheltered lagoon to the north of Kiwayu Island. Across the line of dunes, which span the bay, lies the Dodori Game Reserve and simply miles of unspoilt Africa.
For centuries this has been a calling point for the Arab dhow traders – safe haven. Few places in this World boast the same seclusion and beauty, visited only by local fishermen and occasional sports fishermen in search of the magnificent marlin and sailfish, which are tagged and released in these waters. The ecological balance which gives Kiwayu its magic; no concrete and glass or un-natural landscaping but simple rustic cottages, built in the local bajuni style, which offer airy, shaded seclusion just a few steps from the shoreline.
Map of Lamu Archipelago
Lamu Island Special Flight Package
DAY 1: Mombasa –Lamu Island
Board a flight to Manda Island from Nairobi or Mombasa followed by a short boat ride to Lamu Island. This unique Swahili town has no roads for vehicles with streets broad enough only to allow camels and donkeys with a mouth-watering lunch at peponi hotel and afternoon leisure with a sumptuous dinner and overnight at Peponi Hotel.
Day 2: Lamu Island
Breakfast is at leisure and part of the morning is free for shopping and exploration of the Island to Island hopping. Seafood lunch at your hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing.Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Lamu - Mombasa
Breakfast and a boat ride to Manda Island for your return flight to Nairobi or to Mombasa.