Lamu Island
7 – 10 October 2023 (3 nights 4 days trip)
Lamu Old Town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in all of East Africa, having been a key settlement for trade since the 14th century. The principal inhabited part of the island, is one of the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlements in East Africa. Due to Lamu’s history in trading gold, spices, and slaves, Lamu is truly a melting pot of different cultures and Arabic, Persian, Indian, European, and Swahili traditions that are evidently on display in Lamu’s Architecture.
Most evident tradition in Lamu however is the Swahili. In falling characteristically with the Swahili culture, most of the town is built with coral stone and mangrove timber. The town is characterized by the simplicity of structural forms enriched by such features as inner courtyards, verandas, narrow winding streets and elaborately carved wooden doors.
Lamu Old Town has a wealth of beautiful, historic buildings, so a tour of this area is a good place to start your exploration.
Activities
- Tour the Lamu Museum – offers an introduction to the island’s rich history and architecture.
- Tour the German Post Office Museum – learn about the past German activity on the island including a collection of German East Africa stamps and coins.
- Tour Lamu Fort – built by the Sultan of Paté between 1810 and 1823, during British Colonial rule, and was used as a prison – today it’s a library.
- Explore Lamu Old Stone Town
- Sail a Dhow
- Visit Shela Village
- Visit Takwa Ruins
- Enjoy the seafood and Swahili Cuisine
- Walk along the beaches and swimming
Accommodation
We will stay at Lamu House, an 18th century Swahili House, a luxury accommodation located on the seafront in the Lamu Old Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Book you places: https://www.kenyamuseumsociety.org/contact-us/
Contacts: 0724 255299 or info@kenyamuseumsociety.org
