In the several years that I have worked as a tour consultant, I have always had clients who ask about the best things to do in Lamu. Lying off Kenya’s far north coast, Lamu is an ideal destination because it offers travellers an immersive step back in time. The town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has car-free streets, which are traversed by donkeys and foot traffic. The island provides an unparalleled escape for slowing down, featuring stunning Swahili architecture, pristine white sand beaches, and iconic sunset dhow cruises. The Lamu Archipelago consists of five islands, namely Lamu, Manda, Pate, Kiwayu, and Manda Toto, which offer a blend of history and tranquillity.
Before you embark on your visit, there is definitely a need for you to have adequate knowledge of the things to do in Lamu. Based on my experience touring Lamu, I will share some amazing insights on 18 best things to do in Lamu. Let’s dive in!
What Makes Lamu Worth a Visit
Lamu is pristine, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking tranquil beach holidays. The Lamu Archipelago is also home to some lavish accommodations in lavish settings. Moreover, Lamu is popular as a post-safari add-on, with major activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, historical walking tours, sea kayaking, dhow sailing trips, and diving with the dolphins.
The best way to access the Archipelago is by flight, and the airport is on Manda Island, from where you will be transferred to your lodge or hotel by boat. Travelling to Lamu by road is not recommended owing to the remote terrain, rough roads, and security precautions along certain coastal stretches.
Best Things to Do in Lamu
There are various things you can do in Lamu, which is a destination that is definitely worth exploring. Below is a breakdown of some of the things to do in Lamu.
Exploring the Streets of Lamu Old Town is one of the Things to do in Lamu
The narrow streets of Lamu Old Town are one of the best things to do in Lamu. The town is the oldest inhabited Swahili town in East Africa, with a rich history and culture. As visitors explore Lamu, they get a chance to traverse through the maze-like alleys and discover coral stone homes, intricately carved wooden doors, secret courtyards, and local markets. The streets are quiet, peaceful, and authentic, as there are very few vehicles on them. Travellers can spend hours roaming in town, interacting with locals, and appreciating the traditional Swahili architecture.
Relaxing on Shela Beach is among the Best Things to do in Lamu
Shela beach lies on the edge of the Sunamganj River. Shela Beach is definitely one of Kenya’s most beautiful beaches and entails miles of powdery white sand and turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot to unwind. At Shela Beach, travellers can enjoy going on beach walks, swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing moments under the swaying palm trees. In addition, Shela Beach boasts of stunning boutique hotels and rooftop restaurants, which offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Experiencing a Traditional Dhow Cruise among the things to do in Lamu
One of the most popular activities in Lamu is the sunset dhow cruise. The sunset dhow cruise is a centuries-old tradition of the Swahili Coast, and boarding a traditional wooden dhow allows visitors to experience Lamu from a unique perspective. The sunset colors the sky as the dhow sails across the Indian Ocean. Most cruises have fresh seafood, beverages, and swimming opportunities.
Visiting the Lamu Museum is among the Things to Do in Lamu
If you are a history buff, exploring the Lamu Museum is a great place to learn about the island’s cultural heritage. The museum has displays of Swahili culture, maritime trade, traditional clothing, and local crafts. Visitors can gain knowledge on the cultural heritage of Lamu and its history with Arabia, India, and Persia.
Tasting Authentic Swahili Cuisine is among the Best Places to do in Lamu
Authentic Swahili Cuisine is a must-try item on the best Things to Do in Lamu list, as food is an integral part of the Swahili culture. The island’s cuisine reflects the African, Arabic, and Indian cultures, and dishes are rich and flavoursome. Some of the popular foods in Lamu include coconut fish curry, grilled lobster, biryani rice, octopus stew, and mahamri. Additionally, Lamu’s proximity to the Indian Ocean makes it a great source of fresh seafood.
Discovering the Takwa Ruins among the Things to do in Lamu
The ruins of Takwa are found on Manda Island and are an interesting glimpse into the ancient Swahili civilization. The ruins belong to the fifteenth century and consist of old mosques, stone houses, and old wells. For those interested in history and culture, this archaeological site is one of the most educational activities to be done in Lamu.
Attending the Lamu Cultural Festival is among the best things to do in Lamu
If you are seeking to visit Lamu in November, you should definitely check out the Lamu Cultural Festival. A colourful annual event celebrates the annual event celebrates, donkey races, traditional dances, poetry, and music performances. The festival is a true celebration of culture and a display of the cultural experience.
Visiting the Donkey Sanctuary the best thing to do in Kenya
Donkeys play a major role in the daily life of Lamu, as they are the main mode of transport across the island. The Lamu Donkey Sanctuary was established to take care of these hard-working animals. Visitors can learn about donkey welfare and supporting an organisation that has valuable contribution to the community.
Snorkelling and Water Sports among the Things to do in Lamu
Lamu’s warm coastal waters offer plenty of exciting activities for adventure seekers. Snorkelling is especially popular since the surrounding reefs are abundant with colourful fish and coral formations. Kayaking, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding are also popular activities at Shela Beach and the surrounding islands and nearby areas.
Staying in a Traditional Swahili House is among the Things to do in Lamu
One of the most authentic things about Lamu is staying in traditional Swahili-style houses, where travellers can stay and experience the culture up close. Most hotels and guesthouses have coral stone walls, beautifully carved wooden furniture, and rooftop terraces. The kind of accommodation allows travellers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s cultural atmosphere.
Taking a Boat to Kipungani among the Best Things to do in Lamu
Kipungani is a quiet coastal settlement with pristine beaches and a tranquil environment. A cruise in this area gives visitors the opportunity to discover the more peaceful side of the archipelago. The route is scenic, and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking sights and take photos of dolphins along the coast.
Watching the Sunset from a Rooftop Terrace is among the Best Things to do in Lamu
The simplest but most memorable thing to do in Lamu is to watch the sunset on a rooftop terrace. At night, the island is a quiet place filled with the sounds of the ocean and a distant call to prayer. Many rooftop restaurants and hotels offer stunning views of the harbour and the surrounding islands.
Exploring Local Markets and Artisan Markets among the Best Things to do in Lamu
Visitors can explore local markets and buy handicrafts as souvenirs, supporting local artists. Some of the popular products that travellers can buy include woven baskets, jewellery, kikoy fabrics, wooden carvings, and spices. These stores are also a great place for tourists to connect with the local community and enjoy traditional craftsmanship.
Deep Sea Fishing is Among the Things to do in Lamu
Another interesting activity that travellers can enjoy in Lamu is deep-sea fishing. Sailfish, Tuna, Marlin, and Kingfish can be spotted throughout the year, depending on the season. In addition, beginner and experienced anglers can go on guided fishing trips while in Lamu, making their trip unforgettable.
Embracing the Slow Island Life is among the Things to do in Lamu
The laid-back pace of life is probably the best part of Lamu. The absence of heavy traffic, the calm ocean breeze, and the welcoming local culture foster an atmosphere that invites visitors to slow down and unwind.
Dolphin Watching among the Best Things to do in Lamu
Dolphin watching is considered one of the most thrilling things to do in Lamu. Several boat tours operate within Kiwayu Island and Manda Bay, with dolphins swimming side by side with dhows and speedboats being frequently spotted. Dolphin watching in Lamu has proven to be a major attraction among eco-tourists and upscale travellers interested in unforgettable wildlife encounters along Kenya’s coastline. Early morning boat trips provide the best opportunities for travellers to spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
Visiting Manda Bay is among the best Things to do in Lamu
Visiting Manda Bay is also among the best things to do in Lamu. What sets Manda Bay apart is its exclusivity, luxurious accommodations, and serenity. Manda Bay is found on Manda Island, where you can get a more exclusive and luxurious coastal experience as opposed to the crowded parts of Lamu Town. With the serene beaches and clear waters, it is the perfect spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Most people travel to Manda Bay for luxury lodging, delicious seafood, and stunning sunsets.
Exploring Kiwayu Island among the Best Things to do in Lamu
Kiwayu Island is among the least explored areas of Lamu, thus providing a wonderful opportunity for exploratory tourists who prefer offbeat destinations. The island offers pristine beaches, a serene environment, and diverse marine life. Activities for tourists include snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and hiking among others, allowing people to experience an unexplored part of the Kenyan coast. Because Kiwayu Island remains less civilized, travellers can enjoy a serene and authentic escape, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Other things that travellers can do in Lamu include:
- Enjoying bird watching
- Taking Swahili cooking classes
- Exploring mangrove forests
- Going on photography tours
- Visiting ancient mosques
- Visiting local Swahili coffee houses
Final Thoughts: Why Trust Adequate Safaris to Plan Your Trip to Lamu?
One of the reasons why Lamu continues to be a very charming destination in East Africa is that it offers visitors a unique combination of history, culture, adventure, and leisure, which cannot be found elsewhere. Visitors can experience all sorts of thrilling activities, from wandering through historic Swahili streets to lying on beautiful beaches and taking part in dhow safaris. For those seeking an unspoiled destination where they can enjoy themselves, Lamu is definitely worth a visit.
Are you dreaming of Lamu and engaging in some of the best things to do while there?? Worry not! At Adequate Safaris, we are committed to ensuring that your experience is unmatched by ensuring that you engage in the best things to do in Lamu. Our professional tour consultants will offer the best advice on the best things to do in Lamu based on their extensive hands-on knowledge. All you need to do is to contact Adequate Safaris at deals@adequatesafaris.com to ensure you get a chance to engage in the best things to do in Lamu for an unmatched and worthwhile experience.
