5 DAYS PEPONI RESORT FLIGHT PACKAGE 1ST AUG-14TH DEC

LAMU HOLIDAY

Lamu County, located on Kenya's northern coast bordering the Indian Ocean, is known for its rich history and unique Swahili culture. It's the site of Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and boasts a diverse population and beautiful archipelago. 

LAMU OLD TOWN

Lamu Old Town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. You'll see buildings constructed from coral stone and mangrove timber, with features like inner courtyards, verandas, and elaborately carved wooden doors. The town is known for its strong Swahili culture, with traditions like the Lamu dowries and Maulidi celebrations, commemorating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Explore the narrow, winding streets, where cars are absent, and discover the unique architectural styles of the buildings. 

         SHELA BEACH

Shela Beach, located on Lamu Island in Kenya, offers a variety of activities, from relaxing on the beach to exploring the nearby Shela Village and engaging in watersports. The beach itself is a long expanse of golden sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks. Shela Village, adjacent to the beach, provides a charming setting with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and opportunities to experience Swahili culture. Watersports like kite surfing and fishing are also available, and whale watching and swimming with dolphins can be arranged. 

     DHOW TRIPS

Dhows are traditional sailing vessels with a long history in Lamu County, Kenya, deeply intertwined with the region's maritime culture and trade. These sturdy wooden boats, crafted from local mangrove wood, were historically used for transporting goods across the Indian Ocean and continue to be used for fishing and recreation. Dhow racing, a popular Lamu tradition, helps preserve this cultural heritage and attracts tourists. Dhows have been a vital part of Lamu's identity for centuries, serving as trading vessels, fishing boats, and even forming the basis of transportation within the archipelago. Their design and construction are a testament to the skills of local artisans. Lamu hosts dhow racing events, particularly during the trade winds season (July to April) and around holidays, with the New Year's Day race being a prestigious event. These races are a vibrant cultural spectacle and encourage the preservation of dhow-building and sailing skills. 

            LAMU MUSEUM

The museum houses a collection of artifacts, including the Pate Ivory Siwa, and exhibits related to Swahili culture, traditional utensils, and various types of boats representing different centuries. It's situated in Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 700 years of continuous inhabitation, known for its religious festivals and cultural significance. The museum is part of a broader historical and cultural landscape, including the nearby Lamu Fort and Takwa Ruins on Manda Island. 

            LAMU CULTURAL FESTIVALS

The Lamu Cultural Festival is an annual three-day event held on Lamu Island, Kenya, celebrating Swahili culture and heritage. It showcases various aspects of Swahili traditions through competitions, cultural displays, and lively festivities. The festival aims to promote Swahili culture, open up the archipelago to outsiders, and showcase the island's unique landscape and people, according to The East African. 

WATER SPORTS

Lamu Island offers a variety of watersports activities, including snorkeling, diving, sailing, and various motorized watersports like waterskiing and wakeboarding. You can also enjoy activities like kayaking, windsurfing, and exploring the marine reserve. Additionally, sunset cruises, dhow sailing, fishing, and picnics on deserted beaches are popular options.

The warm, clear waters around Lamu are ideal for snorkeling and diving, with opportunities to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. You can explore the marine reserve and potentially even spot whale sharks during certain times of the year according to Forodhani House. . Dhow sailing is a classic Lamu experience, with sunset cruises and trips to nearby islands like Manda Toto being popular. You can also enjoy deep-sea or traditional fishing. 

                        SIYU FORT

Siyu Fort, located on Pate Island in Lamu, Kenya, offers visitors a glimpse into the Swahili resistance against foreign powers. Built in the 19th century by the local Swahili people of Siyu, it stands as a unique testament to their self-reliance and resilience against the Omani Arabs. Visitors can explore the fort's architecture, see ancient cannons and weaponry, and learn about Siyu's rich history as a trading center. 

The fort was constructed using coral stone, lime mortar, and mangrove timber, showcasing traditional Swahili building techniques. 

Visitors can view a display of historical arms used by the Swahili warriors in their defense. 

The surrounding town of Siyu features well-preserved Swahili tombs and mosques, offering further cultural and historical insights. Exhibits highlight Siyu's role as a vital trading hub, connecting Africa with the Middle East and Asia. Learn about Bwana Mataka, the Swahili leader who spearheaded the fort's construction and rebuilt much of the town. 

The fort is surrounded by thick mangrove and coconut forests, providing a beautiful backdrop for exploration. 

 LOCAL CUISINE

Lamu's local cuisine is a rich tapestry of Swahili flavors, influenced by Arab, Indian, and Portuguese culinary traditions. Seafood is a staple, with dishes like wahèvres (fish stew), grilled fish, and mahamri (fried bread) being popular choices. Spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon are frequently used, adding depth and aroma to the dishes. Coconut milk is another common ingredient, used in curries, stews, and desserts, contributing a creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Lamu's cuisine reflects its rich history, with influences from Arab traders, Indian immigrants, and Portuguese colonizers.