Lamu Archipelago Kenya
Lamu Archipelago Kenya : Lamu Archipelago is a string of seven islands of varying sizes and shapes situated in the Indian Ocean off the North Coast of Kenya, the archipelago is an area of charming natural beauty and a perfect destination for Kenya beach holiday offering tranquility and serenity.
Lamu Archipelago hosts a conflation of cultures and the East African history offering visitors an opportunity to take a step back in time where motor vehicles where non-existent, visitors wander through the old town of Lamu through Maze like streets where the building are made from local materials including mangrove pole, limestone and coral stones graced with magnificent carved doors. As you wander through the streets, visitors will get a chance to appreciate and admire the amazing streets and amazing architecture of the buildings.
The labyrinth streets pattern in Lamu Archipelago are of an Arab Origin and has clusters of dwelling which are divided into a numerous small wards referred to as Mitaa which are homes to closely related family.
As you wander, you will have an encounter with a fusion of cultures such as the Arabs, Portuguese, Indian and the European that have saturated throughout the entire Lamu Archipelago and these have influenced the Swahili Culture for over the past 700 years.
Lamu Archipelago hosts a range of elegant lavish and luxurious accommodation options situated in the an extremely interesting setting which make Lamu Archipelago a great destination for a beach holiday vacation. As a visitor on a holiday to Lamu Archipelago, you can explore by our own or use services from Focus East Africa Tours. During your visit you will get a chance to visit the narrow streets with shops selling original jewelry, leather outfits, beautiful cotton clothing sold by local traders.
Another amazing experience to enjoy in Lamu Archipelago is taking a scenic walk along the white sand beaches to catch the sunrise and sunsets, gaze the palm trees that dominate the shore line, relax next to the azure warm waters of the India Ocean while sipping on fresh cold cocktail. Visitors can also participate in amazing water sports such as snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, fishing among others.
While on a vacation to Lamu Archipelago, you can also visit and explore Manda Island which is situated near to the mainland and is less developed than Lamu Island. Manda island is an island of Archipelago known for the prosperous 9th century ports of Takwa and Manda town, this island can be accessed from Lamu by a ferry.
During you visit to the Manda Island you get to enjoy an extensive adventure experience and take a walk in the ruined towns of Takwa and Manda which hosts a historical mix of cultures such as the Chinese porcelain, the Islamic pottery among others.
Climate and weather at Lamu Archipelago
Lamu Archipelago experiences a warm tropical climates and adoptable temperatures influenced by sea breezes, the temperatures on the archipelago seldom fall below 26 degrees Celsius.
Monsoon winds on Lamu Archipelago add on to the great adventure for example the Kusi winds which occur between October influence the rainy season together with strong southeasterly winds- the cooler temperatures and rougher seas.
The Kazi winds are experienced in the months of November to April and these influences the dry season and the northeasterly winds the clear water visibility and calmer seas. In the dry season, the Lamu Archipelago consists of hot days, warm nights, humidity and sea breezes, while on Kenya Safaris.
Highlights and attractions in Lamu Archipelago
During your holiday to Archipelago Island, you will enjoy the following activities
- A traditional boat cruise known as the Dhow sail excursion, on this experience you will explore the seven islands of Lamu Archipelago
- Visit Lamu Museum
- Enjoy water sports such as snorkeling which is best done in the months of November and March, scuba diving, deep fish fishing
- Visit Manda Island and its historical sites of Takwa and Manda
- Wander through the narrow streets of Lamu Town
- Sunbathing and relaxation on the beach
- Wind surfing
- Kite surfing
How to get to the Lamu Archipelago
Lamu Archipelago can easily be accessed while using Air transport and aircrafts, from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport flights land on the main airstrip in Manda Island, another alternatively is using a ferry across the channel to Lamu archipelago.
Accommodation at Lamu Archipelago
At Lamu Island, there is a range of accommodation facilities including
- Manda Bay Island Resort
- Mikes Camp
- Diamond Beach Village
- Peponi Hotel
- Banana House and Wellness spot
- Shella Pwani Guest House
- Kipungani explorer
- Lamu House
- Mike’s Camp
- Jambo House
- Kijani Hotel
- Subira House
- Stopver Guest House
