Lamu Island lies to the north of Kenya's coastline and here you find the jewel of the Indian Ocean. This most exotic place in Kenya is set in an archipelago of islands, surrounded by coral reefs, the island lies virtually undisturbed by the surrounding, materialistic world. It is an ancient Swahili culture and Lamu inhabitants are exclusively Sunni Muslims and a minority is Christians. Lamu town has a population of about 20,000 people. They live in ecological balance with each other and with the world surrounding them. A fabulous environment with transparent boundaries between people.
Lamu, Kenya's oldest living town, was one of the original Swahili settlements along coastal East Africa. There are some other accounts that mention Chinese ships of Zheng He's fleet sinking near Lamu Island in Kenya in 1415. Survivors are said to have settled in the island and married local women. However, the authenticity of this story is disputed. The port of Lamu has existed for at least a thousand years. The town was first attested in writing by an Arab traveller Abu-al-Mahasini who met a Judge from Lamu visiting Mecca in 1441.
The town was founded in the 14th century and it contains many fine examples of Swahili architecture. The old city is inscribed on the World Heritage List as "the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa". Due to the narrowness of the streets, automobiles are not allowed - the city is easily explored by foot, bicycle, or, as many locals favour, donkey.
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Rates for apartments and cottages are on room only basis. Rates for all styles of accommodation may vary very, very considerably during the high and peak seasons, especially Xmas / New Year's period. US Dollar rates shown are approximate and subject to change without any prior notice.
