Lamu town, one of the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in Africa is once again on the world map, news. Architectural design, an American monthly magazine that prides itself as the international design authority, has listed Lamu as one of the World’s 13 Most Beautiful Villages You’ve Probably Never Heard Of.
The author, Elizabeth Stamp describes the town as a place that draws influences from Swahili, Arabic, European, Indian, and Persian styles and utilizes mangrove timber and coral stone. “Set on an island of the same name on Kenya’s northeastern coast, Lamu is the oldest Swahili settlement in East Africa. The beautifully preserved town was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001. Visit Lamu Fort, a fortress built between 1810 and 1823, which now houses a library and exhibition space, as well as the Lamu Museum, located in a former home built in the early 1900s. Because of the narrow, winding roads, cars are a rarity, so be prepared to travel by motorbike or on one of the island’s more than 6,000 donkeys.”
Lamu is largely known as a tranquil island retreat that embodies Swahili simplicity. The visions of picturesque islands with soft-sand, white beaches and shimmering azure waters against one of the most beautiful coastal magical sunsets are the markings of this beautiful destination. The evenings on the dhow while enjoying the soothing sounds of it drifting as you sail towards the stunning sunset, is incredibly magical and if you ask me, should be listed by the Tourism Ministry as one of the things one must do to when in Kenya.
Here are 5 Incredible Things to do in Lamu Island, a visit by Capital Lifestyle
A visit to the Floating Restaurant
A walk down Lamu Old Town
Star float Swimming at Mike’s Camp, Kiwayu Island
A Visit to The donkey sanctuary
Chasing Sunsets on a dhow
