An Underrated Island In Kenya Offers Timeless Charm, Coastal Bliss, And Barefoot Luxury

From safaris with incredible wildlife views to pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing, Kenya is brimming with everything from natural wonders to an interesting cultural heritage and outdoor adventures. A must-visit destination for your Africa bucket list, the country's charm is undeniable no matter what you do and where you choose to go. However, away from the sprawling savannah and Mount Kilamanjaro, there's one special destination that's still relatively undiscovered: Lamu Island.

Located off the northern coast of Kenya, this sun-soaked paradise was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. With roots dating back to the 12th century, Lamu beckons travelers who are hoping to get away from the hustle and bustle and sink into a slower pace of life. Accessible only from within Kenya — by domestic flight to a nearby airport and a short ferry ride — the island enjoys one major advantage: it's still far less explored and generally more authentic than more well-known destinations in the country.

Recently, though, the arrival of high-end accommodations and resorts — along with Lamu's reputation as one the best budget-friendly honeymoon destinations in Africa — has transformed the historic port into a sought-after retreat. Welcoming everyone from post-safari travelers hoping to see a different side of Kenya, to adventurers who are willing to brave the logistical hassle of getting there.

Car-free, serene, and traditional, the island's 25,000 residents rely on traditional dhow boats and donkeys to get around, which helps foster a lifestyle that's remained largely unchanged for centuries. However, the island's true essence lies in the heart of its historic Old Town. With coral stone buildings that hide wood carving workshops, local markets, and dozens of historic mosques dotting the skyline, the island's laid-back atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between preservation and progress.

Fully embracing the Swahili concept of "polé polé" — aka, take it slow — there's no itinerary too rigid or activity too rushed to interrupt the peace. So whether you spend your mornings exploring the maze-like streets of Old Town with a local guide, browsing for handcrafted Swahili furniture, or visiting the 18th-century Swahili House Museum, there's no need to try and pick up the pace. Once the heat starts to settle in the afternoon, hop aboard a dhow cruise to enjoy a touch of snorkeling, as well as spot dolphins and sea turtles just off the coast.

All that exploring worked up your appetite? Don't miss a stop by one of the many island's markets, most of which will tempt you with fresh seafood and authentic local specialties like "Swahili pizza" (a pancake-style bread with mince and egg) and "mahamri" (cardamom-spiced doughnuts).

In order to make the most of your visit to Lamu, you'll want to plan your getaway during the dry season, when it'll be sunny and pleasant. This falls between July and September, or December and February. Alternatively, you can also plan your trip around some of the island's biggest cultural celebrations: Lamu Cultural Festival, which takes place in November; and the Maulidi religious festival, which happens around springtime.

In terms of how long to stay, most travelers recommend that you plan for at least four days on the island to truly experience everything it has to offer. As for choosing your accommodation, you'll find most options in the Old Town or Shela Town — a quieter area known for its white sand beaches and upscale properties. That said, some of the most popular high-end options include The Majlis Resort across the water on Manda Island, with five-star amenities and stunning pools; and the landmark Peponi Hotel, which boasts an elegant blend of local character and modern comfort. For a more modest price tag, Stopover Guest House and Jamala House both offer basic rooms for budget-conscious travelers.

Lastly, remember to pack modestly and dress appropriately while out and about. Although welcoming, Lamu is still considered a conservative Muslim island, which means shoulders and knees should be covered in public areas. However, beachwear (bikinis, shorts, and swimsuits) are acceptable at private resorts and in certain designated swimming areas.