Three words describe lamu; enchanting, mysterious, ancient! This 14th century town, island,archipelago is undoubtedly the best preserved ancient swahili settlement. It is made up of lamu, Manda, Pate and Kiwayu Islands that all have an existing and thriving swahili culture.

Here you will find the things of bygone days perfectly preserved for your viewing pleasure.

Though the oldest surviving town in East Africa, the town retains an almost unspoiled 18th and 19th century appearance and lifestyle, some of the mosques dating back to the 14th and 15th cent ury. Its narrow streets, buildings with beautiful carved doors, busy waterfront teeming with dhows, and its fascinating mix of people are some of the attractions.

Very little architectural development has taken place since this time and the narrow cloistered town plan and arabesque structures are still intact. The island is still largely untouched by ‘civilisation’ which accounts for its unique charm. Donkeys and not cars are the main means of transport. Lamu is a UNEsCo World Heritage site.