Karibuni Lamu! -

It’s one of Kenya’s leading attractions but it has managed to elude me for a very long while. I finally got to tour this unique island this July and this is a snippet of what I saw.

All the stories I’d heard about Lamu were true : it being a walk into history; life here being extra chill; people being friendly and the weather friendlier. It actually drizzled a couple of times when I was there. Not the kind of drizzle that makes you seek shelter, but the kind you let delightfully fall on you because the warm weather will have you dry again in no time.

Lamu’s signature architecture is what really caught my eye.

Greatly influenced by a blend of local cultures and those from the sea travellers who visited centuries ago, Lamu’s buildings have stood the test of time and emerged victorious, being one of the main reasons people visit this World Heritage City.

Lamu Museum. Walking through it’s doors is a trip down the Kenyan Coast’s history timeline. It’s a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

Within it’s walls are stories that are waiting to be properly told. Like one about a Chinese ship that sank in the Lamu waters 600 years ago. It’s survivors made it to Manda Island, intermarried with residents and their descendants reside in Shanga Village. Shanga is short for Shanghai which is where the ship was from.

There’s also a 19-generation family tree of Ali Skanda’s family who have been building boats and creating wooden furniture since the 1300s.

A ticket to the Lamu Museum also gives you access to Lamu Fort, a short 5-minute walk away. It used to be at the sea-front before land was reclaimed from the sea, taking it about 70 metres from the shore.

Lamu Fort bears battle scars from days when it was used by Omanis as a base to consolidate their influence in East Africa, and carries stories that will intrigue you, making you appreciate Kenya’s rich culture and global influence even more.

Vegetation is part of the architecture in Lamu. Plants weave their way in the coral walls, forming natural art that is unique to every building.

Legging still remains the main way of getting around Lamu. If you have goods or need to get around faster, donkeys and now boda bodas are available for hire.

I hadn’t noticed the kid at the front.

A visit to Lamu isn’t complete without a sunset dhow cruise. You’ll find many people offering them near the Lamu Jetty. We did it with Captain Bwana +254 726 732 746.