Lamu Island

Lamu Island is one of the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlements in East Africa. Built in coral stone and mangrove timber, the town is characterized by the simplicity of structural forms enriched by such features as inner courtyards, verandas, and elaborately carved wooden doors. Lamu has hosted major Muslim religious festivals since the 19th century, and has become a significant center for the study of Islamic and Swahili cultures. There are no motorized vehicles on Lamu.  Transportation is by donkey and by boat.  Lamu is a small island surrounded by clean and open white sand beaches.  The town of Lamu is an ancient and well preserved Swahili town with narrow, busy streets with curio shops and fascinating nooks and crannies.