Lamu
Kenya · Price calendar
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Hostels we track in Lamu
Local knowledge for Lamu
Where to stay
Budget guesthouses cluster in Lamu Old Town, particularly along the seafront and the narrow lanes behind Lamu Fort. Shela village, a 20-minute walk or short boat ride south, has the nicer beach but caters to boutique-resort crowds at a very different price point.
Getting around
- The airport sits on Manda Island. A shared motorboat crossing to Lamu town costs around 100 KES; touts at the dock will try to sell you a private transfer for 10x that. Wait for the shared one.
- There are no cars on the island. Everything moves by foot, donkey, or small boat, so pack light and wear shoes you can walk in on uneven stone lanes.
- Maulidi (the Prophet's birthday celebration) draws pilgrims and tourists from across East Africa and prices double or triple. Check the Islamic calendar before you book if you want a quiet, cheap stay.
When to go
April through early June is the cheapest window, when the long rains keep visitor numbers low. December through February fills the island with European winter escapees, and the Maulidi festival period sells out guesthouses months in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Where do backpackers stay in Lamu?
Budget guesthouses cluster in Lamu Old Town, particularly along the seafront and the narrow lanes behind Lamu Fort. Shela village, a 20-minute walk or short boat ride south, has the nicer beach but caters to boutique-resort crowds at a very different price point.
What is the best time of year to visit Lamu?
April through early June is the cheapest window, when the long rains keep visitor numbers low. December through February fills the island with European winter escapees, and the Maulidi festival period sells out guesthouses months in advance.