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Lamu - A Medieval Stone Town where Time Stands StillThe Lamu archipelago offers the exotic allure of a medieval town where time has stood still for centuries...
This is because there are virtually no vehicles. The streets are too narrow and too winding to accommodate any so the stone town is best explored on foot, by dhow or on donkey-back, pretty much the way our ancestors traveled. In fact, the donkey and dhow are such an integral part of the coastal town's psyche that it is often joked that time here moves at the pace of a donkey or dhow! The serenity in the town also makes it an ideal getaway. This tranquility is only occasionally pierced by the braying of a donkey and the Muslim prayer calls. So much for the sounds of Lamu. Now to what to see and experience... AttractionsEndless secluded beaches provide the perfect romantic getaway and couples can be seen lazing around or strolling hand in hand along these. The island is home to some of the finest Kenya beaches. Old Town is much visited for its unique architectural landscape of "box" houses and wooden doors.
A 2-centuries old fort constructed by the Sultan of Paté, a German post office and a string of museums are a lesson in the town's long history and captivating Swahili culture. And speaking of culture, the coastal town's has been shaped by African, Portuguese, Turkish and Arab influences. The town's sand dunes are an archaeological haven as evidence of early human settlement is believed to be buried underneath. And as you'd expect with any island town, there are lots of dhows here. And you can use these to explore the town's cluster of islands which comprise the main island, Manda and Pate as well as neighboring Kiwaiyu.
The Maulidi festival celebrates the birth of Prophet Mohammed. The cultural festival, on the other hand, is held every November to celebrate the town's Swahili heritage... Activities include dhow and donkey racing, swimming and dancing and showcasing traditional crafts such as dhow-building and the intricate wood carving that the town is famous for. Be sure to check out the relevant page for the detailed review of these attractions. RestaurantsThe numerous restaurants dotted all over Lamu cater for virtually every culinary taste. Some of the popular ones include Whispers Coffee Shop, Bush Gardens and Peponi Hotel. Whispers offers some wonderful pastries and real espresso. Bush Gardens has a pleasant owner and has some great kebabs and seafood while Peponi Hotel is renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional Swahili style cooking. HotelsThis medieval town offers a good range of hotels such with the most sought after being Kipungani Explorer, Lamu House, and Peponi Hotel. The best cheap hotels in Lamu (BnBs) are Kijani House, Banana House, Mkoko House and Shela Bahari Guest House. Cheap FlightsAirKenya, Safarilink and Mombasa Air Safaris operate daily scheduled flights to the the town. Planes land on Manda Island, which is just across the harbor from the main town. Their air fares are all quite pricey so your best bet for cheap flights is booking early.
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In fact, while in the island town, you'd be forgiven for thinking that you've suddenly taken a trip back in time - to the fourteenth century to be exact...
A donkey sanctuary provides free veterinary services to the town's sick and injured beasts of burden.
If you are a Swahili cultural enthusiast, the best time to visit is during the Maulidi or cultural festivals.
