2 Days Lamu island

Located off the northern coastline of Kenya, Lamu is an historical town with many old buildings, narrow streets and friendly Arab population. It has been trading centre and already in the 11th Century dhows sailed along the East African coast to Arabia, Persia and India. But with the abolition of slavery in 1907 the economy of the island went into decline.
In the early 1970s, Lamu was discovered by “hippies ” and they loved the laisser faire attitude of its people and ambiance. They have gone, but tourist are still coming to Lamu, it has now some good hotels, and guesthouses. In recent years, some wealthy people have restored the beautiful grand houses in authentic style and hose houses are sometimes for rent, inclusive cook, staff and all comforts. Life for the Arab/Bajuni people has not changed much, men still wear full length robes ( khanzus ) and caps ( kofia ), the ladies in bui-bui.
Lamu can be reached by small aircraft from Malindi or Mombasa, flights are fairly inexpensive. Alternatively, you can use local bus which is not advisable since the road is very rough and slow.
Once there, Lamu Island is a worthwhile place to get away from it all. Tourism, although important, is small scale compared to the rest of Kenya’s’ coastline. There are no discos and being predominantly Islamic, very little alcohol, the food is excellent with an emphasis on seafood, and the atmosphere very laid back. The island is vehicle free with the only form of transport is donkeys. 15 minutes walk from Lamu town is a long stretch of sandy beach. The town itself has been designated a national monument and funds are being raised to restore the old coral-rag houses. The locals are renown for their friendliness and relaxed attitude to life.
A popular activity whilst in Lamu is to take dhow trip to one of the nearby islands. Snorkelling gear can be hired and it is best to try and get a group of about 6 – 8 people together to share the costs.

DAY 1
Leaving in the early morning you fly to up the length of the north coast to the Manda Island, there you will be ferried to Lamu by boat. The night will be spent at Palace hotel. This forgotten Swahili town (no cars on the island) has a fascinating museum and you will have time to explore the beaches and seafront.

DAY 2
This morning you will awaken to the cheerful sounds of the local fishermen, as they return from their night’s fishing, docking their boats at the jetty, outside the hotel.
After a delicious breakfast, you will be escorted onto an Arab style Lamu Dhow, returning for lunch, at the Palace Hotel. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Manda Island for your flight back to Malindi / Mombasa in the late evening.