Lamu walking tour & city guide
A car-free Swahili island town.
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Lamu Old Town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are no cars on the island; donkeys and dhow boats are the main transport.
Old Town
Narrow lanes run between coral-stone houses with carved wooden doors. The waterfront is lined with dhows, traditional sailing boats. The Lamu Fort and Museum tell the island's history.
Shela
The village of Shela has a long sandy beach with dunes. Sunset dhow cruises are a highlight. The Lamu Cultural Festival celebrates Swahili traditions.
A day in Lamu
Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO site, is the oldest continually inhabited Swahili town in East Africa. There are no cars; donkeys are the main transport. Walk the narrow lanes, visit the Lamu Museum and the Lamu Fort, and sit by the waterfront watching dhows come and go.
In the afternoon, walk or take a boat to Shela, with its long, empty beach and sand dunes.
Good to know
Lamu is reached by small plane to Manda Island, then a short boat ride. Dress modestly in town, as Lamu is a conservative Muslim community.
The Lamu Cultural Festival celebrates Swahili traditions with dhow races and donkey races.
Top sights in Lamu
- 1
Lamu Old Town
A car-free Swahili town.
- 2
Lamu Fort
A historic fort and museum.
- 3
Shela Beach
A long sandy beach.
- 4
Dhow cruises
Sunset sailing.
- 5
Donkey Sanctuary
Care for the island's donkeys.
Food markets & where to eat in Lamu
Waterfront
Seafood restaurants.
Old Town stalls
Swahili snacks.
Shela village
Beachside dining.
Food to try in Lamu
Samaki wa kupaka
Grilled fish in coconut sauce.
Pilau
Spiced rice.
Fresh juice
From tropical fruits.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Lamu
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in LamuCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Lamu.
- eSIM for KenyaStay online from the moment you land.
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