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, fisherman 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 4,000 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:
The hotel is private and extremely low-keyed. The cottages,
"grass villas", are well spaced to give privacy.
The floors and the walls are made from local palm leaf mats
and the roofs are thatched. Roomshave no doors or windows
which enables one enjoy the breeze from the bedside, a ceiling
fan to keep cool at night. The rooms are also fitted with
mosquito nets. A swimming pool is available. The place is
rustic and natural, ideal for letting the breeze and view
be part you.
Island Hotel:
Situated in the centre of Shela Village, The Island Hotel
is only four minutes walk from the fabulous Shela Beach. Decorated
in traditional Swahili style, the hotel offers 15 rooms with
private bathrooms, including three family rooms and a Penthouse.
All rooms have fans and mosquito nets.
Peponi Hotel:
Peponi is situated on Lamu Island’s Shela Beach. The
beach starts after a five minute walk from Shela village and
it is a reason why people return to Lamu again and again -
seven miles of golden sands that are never crowded, with a
sea which is clean and ideal for swimming, surfing, diving,
windsurfing, skiing, fishing or boating.
Lamu Palace
The hotel, respendent in its traditional Arab architecture
is overlooking the romantic Lamu Port and Manda Beach, along
the shorefront cum harbor, this quaint hotel is situated at
the pulse of the town. Perhaps the widest paved walkway stretches
alongside the hotel's attractive entrance and verandah, and
makes a perfect spot to stop for a refreshing drink or a cup
of coffee even if you are not staying at the hotel and while
you watch the island's daily 'activities' unfold before you.
Don't be surprised if a friendly vendor stops to offer you
some fresh mangoes from baskets piled high on the back of
his donkey, or a friendly bunch of children en-route from
school call out a cheerful greeting - here emphasis is on
friendliness rather than hindrance.