You can visualize Lamu when you close your eyes. The narrow streets. The floating boats. The occasional tall Swahili dude in a kanga wrapped around his waist and the historic buildings that stand tall. You can tell God was showing off when He created Lamu, so when the Nairobi cold persisted and I needed a quick gateway, I decided to tick Lamu off my bucket list with a four days holiday to Majlis Resort in Manda Island.
To get there we had to jump on a plane and land in Manda airstrip, the main airstrip in Lamu. The flight took one hour then we spent an extra ten minutes on a boat to our hotel. Straight from the sky into the ocean is the motto here, and as the breeze whipped through my face I felt the urge to spread my arms and pretend they were wings, but people, including, my children, were watching, and I did not want to scare them into thinking what I needed was a mental checkup and not a holiday.
We settled in Majlis Resort, an exotic resort with a superb beachfront location and breathtaking views.
The one thing you will notice when in Lamu, and perhaps one of the reasons you should visit Lamu, is their diverse culture. This makes sense because over the years Europeans, Asians, Persians, Kenyans and Indians have called this place home. When you blend their different cultures you get a marvellous charm. The people are friendly and even though at one time Lamu was hit by insecurity, that’s no longer the case.
You will love the historic tour of Old Town Lamu. The streets are narrow so donkeys and motorbikes are the only modes of transport, making for quite a thrilling experience.
Because Lamu arouses your curiosity, the town has a museum where you can learn about the island’s rich history and architecture. Away from the museum, there’s Lamu fort which used to be a prison during the British colonial rule but is now a Library.
If you are a lover of food and sundowner drinks, you will love Lamu floating bar that’s easily accessible from Shela, Manda and Lamu island by boat.
Accommodation is very affordable in Lamu. Hotels at the main island and Shela are quite affordable such that with 25k, you can easily get a 2-night flying package and, if you love a bit of luxury such as a private beach, then Manda island is your place to go.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go experience Lamu. Get in touch with me and let me plan your trip so you can focus on enjoyment.
Phone No: 0113417724
E-mail: jackline@denseytravel.com
Meanwhile, here are more pictures from my Lamu Trip