Located in the Indian Ocean close to the northern coast of Kenya is the Lamu Archipelago. The islands lie between the towns of Lamu and Kiunga, near the Coast Province.
The largest of the islands are Pate Island, Manda Island and Lamu Island while the smaller islands include Kiwayu, which lies in the Kiunga Marine National Reserve, and Manda Toto. Today the largest town in the archipelago which is on the World Heritage List.
Lamu island itself is a beautiful place of rolling dunes and pristine beaches, where tiny villages nestle among coconut and mango palm trees and lateen sailed dhows ply the waters whose best attraction is its Old town.
The town of Lamu began life as a 14th century Swahili settlement as the narrow streets remain unchanged and the donkey and the dhow remain the dominant form of transport.
Exploring the town and learn the Swahili way of life and the rich Muslim culture, relax on the beaches or enjoy dhow safaris which will take you across the surrounding archipelago, where isolated villages, ancient ruins and a few luxurious and exclusive resorts lie hidden among the islands.
