Lamu Holiday Solutions header

Highlights

Lamu - Original Swahili Settlement

h3. Background

As Kenya’s oldest living town, Lamu has a rich and colorful history. The town was one of the many original Swahili settlements that stretched from Somalia to Mozambique. It remained a thriving port town through the turbulent Portuguese invasions and later the Omani domination of the 14th century.

No car No Traffic

The physical appearance and the character of the town have changed little over the centuries. The narrow, winding streets accommodate only pedestrian or donkey traffic. Some people are concerned that Lamu’s popularity and increased tourism will ultimately undermine the unique value system and culture of this Swahili settlement. Others argue, however, that without the tourist industry Lamu will suffer and stagnate

Lamu Swahili Food

To experience Swahili food is to taste the history of the east coast of Africa. Today’s Kenyan and Tanzanian cookery has been strongly influenced by the arrival of foreign settlers, the foreigners brought with them new ingredients and ideas from their own cultures and countries, and over the centuries Swahili cuisine emerged as a colourful mix of the best of African, Arabian and Asian flavours.

The Lamu Museum

The Museum is open Monday – Saturday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Visit the Germany post office and the Swahili house too for more information about the history. Other places to see Lamu live history is Takwa Ruins, Pate Island and Shanga

Lamu Residents

The population of Lamu is predominantly Muslim although there has now been an influx of people from throughout the Kenyan coast diversifying the ethnic makeup of the area. However, men can still be seen to wear the full length robes known as khanzus with kofia caps while women cover themselves in the black wraparound cloth common in other Islamic cultures. It is therefore requested that the tourists coming to Lamu should respect this culture and tradition by dressing modestly around town and refraining from displays of public affection.

Lamu Economy

Unfortunately Lamu had a slave-based economy until the turn of the 20th century. When slavery was abolished in 1907 the economy of the island suffered greatly. In the early 1970s, Lamu became famous for its reputation as an exotic location, attracting backpackers, hippies and other travelers looking for an escape from the outside world.
lamu seafront lamu holiday solutions lamu town square lamu holiday solutions