Safari experts & storytellers. Since 1991
Trust us to find you the rarest animals, the most spectacular wildlife events, the remotest landscapes and deeply meaningful cultural encounters!
Why holiday on Lamu Island?
The mystical island of Lamu off the Kenyan coast offers a laid-back beach vibe, fantastic food, a vibrant art scene, and fascinating Swahili culture. Transport on this almost care-free island is provided by donkeys and traditional Arab sailboats called Dhows.
The perfect Kenyan bush & beach destination
The ocean side of the island is fronted by an eight-mile-long deserted beach, with commanding dunes that shield the coconut and mango plantations and small villages behind. At the heart of the island is the Old Town, where narrow winding paths and traditional Swahili architecture reflect the combined influences of the Omani, Indian, and Portuguese merchants and explorers over a thousand years of spirited trade.
A small beach community known as Shela has developed within walking distance of Old Town and has become a favourite refuge for celebrities and European elite who don’t want to be recognised. Everyone is treated equally by locals who have welcomed visitors since the early white hunters began visiting Lamu after their long safaris of the 1920s and 30s.
Lamu Island quick facts
Lamu Old Town, founded around the 12th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site for preserving its traditional Swahili culture and architecture
Architectural features include coral stone, mangrove timber, inner courtyards, verandas, and distinctive, elaborately carved wooden doors
Because of the island's narrow, winding roads, residents are forced to commute on foot or by donkey. The use of cars by the general public is banned
Lamu's coral reefs form a rich marine ecosystem, including mangroves and seagrass that host diverse species such as turtles, dugongs, and whale sharks
Things to do on Lamu Island
Lamu Old Town: Wander the narrow, ancient alleyways of this ancient Swahili settlement, admiring coral-stone architecture and intricately carved doors
Lamu Museum: Learn about the island's rich history and Swahili heritage
Takwa Ruins: Explore the remnants of a 15th-century Swahili town on nearby Manda Island
Water activities such as Arab dhow cruises, snorkelling and diving to see vibrant marine life in the clear waters, and island hopping by boat to Manda and Kiwayu
Beach walks, village visits, Swahili cuisine at local eateries and rum and pineapple juice at the Floating Bar
We are trusted by thousands of satisfied travellers
✔️ 4.9 Star Trustpilot Rating ✔️ 5,000+ Safari Trips Completed
✔️ 34+ Years of Experience ✔️ 2025 Conde Nast Travel Specialist Award Winner
Start planning your Lamu Island holiday
Our travel experts will craft a no-obligation itinerary just for you. We have crafted over 5,000 safaris since 1991. Your personal details are protected; we only use this information to contact you.
Why choose us to craft your safari?
Handcrafted experiential safaris since 1991.
Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early/late or a few kilometres off course, and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity?
Trust & Safety
Guest payments go into a third-party TRUST ACCOUNT - protecting them in the unlikely event of a financial setback on our part. Also, we are members of SATSA who attest to our integrity, legal compliance and financial stability.
Make a difference
We donate a portion of the revenue from every safari sold to carefully selected conservation projects that make a significant difference at ground level.
YOUR safari choice does make a difference - thank you!