Curated Stays in Lamu — A Handpicked Selection
Discover a curated collection of authentic hotels and places to stay in Lamu, Kenya. Explore slow hotels and beautiful accommodations for an unforgettable stay
Check out this link for travel inspiration on Lamu
I’m here to share extraordinary stays—handpicked hideaways chosen for their bespoke service, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional design. Each place has been thoughtfully curated to highlight spaces where aesthetics, comfort, and personality come together effortlessly.
Some of the links in this list are affiliate links—booking through them won’t cost you anything extra, but it does help support this project (kind of like buying it a coffee—only way more exciting).
For other properties, feel free to get in touch directly if you’d like more details or extra photos.
Now, enjoy the selection!
Shela Beach
Stunningly located at the beginning of Shella Beach, 100 meters from the village and Peponi Terrace.
Dhow Horizon Retreat comes with 5 professional, friendly staff, among them an excellent cook.
It features 5 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms (sleeps 10-12 guests), lots of different terraces, lounging areas to take it easy, a airy and spacy main lounge, a garden and a pool.
Prices: starting from 600 USD
Check availability, prices, photos, and details by clicking the button below the photo
Shela Beach
The place to be in Lamu. Incredible food.
Hotel – 29 rooms all with ocean view
Prices: starting from 216 USD
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Lamu
Traditional Swahili architectural styling – albeit with a modern twist.
House – 2 apartments and 4 suites are contained within this special property. Rental options are room by room or whole house.
Prices: starting from 150 EUR
Check availability, prices, photos, and details by clicking the button below the photo
Shela Beach
One of Shela’s finest private holiday homes, offering spaciousness, tranquility, and luxury just steps from the island’s stunning beach.
Infinity pool, gardens, roof terraces and dune-top gazebo
Excellent chefs & staff plus on-site management.
From 5 to 12 people
Prices: Upon Request
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Lamu
One of the oldest houses on historic Lamu Island, this former Governor’s residence from the late 18th century has been beautifully restored, showcasing traditional Swahili design and craftsmanship to revive its original elegance and charm.
House – 4 rooms (sleeps 8)
Guests recommended by No Limit Ideas enjoy a complimentary guided tour of Lamu town with the house’s licensed guide.
Multiple verandas, terraces, swimming pool, garden.
A full staff is included, consisting of a chef, steward, gardener, and general manager.
Rates start at 350€
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Shela
Outstanding beach property
House – 9 rooms (sleeps 18)
Ideal for corporate and private events
Prices: 1-6 guests: 1190€ per day, 7-12 guests: 2390€ per day, 13-18 guests: 3590€ per day. These rates are on self catering basis and include the airport transfer. The team does the groceries and preparation of meals for the guests at self cost
Check availability, prices, photos, and details by clicking the button below the photo
Lamu
If you´re looking for a boutique eco-friendly hotel, look no further!
Hotel – seafront 10 rooms, several swimming pools, courtyards, terraces….
Prices: from 150€
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Shela
The interior design combines traditional Swahili woodcraft, African style and a touch of modern artistry.
B&B – 7 rooms 10 min walk from the beach
From the two roof-top terraces one has amazing views to the dunes, the sea and over the islands of Lamu and Manda.
Prices: From 90€
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Lamu
Heritage Haven is an exquisitely restored 18th-century Swahili stone house in the heart of Lamu Town. Divided into five unique apartments, its architecture ensures natural cooling year-round. Frangipani-scented pools, hidden alcoves, and rooftop terraces offer breathtaking views of the town and archipelago. Each space features authentic Swahili furniture blended with African and Western art, creating a perfect mix of tradition and elegance.
Prices: From 110€
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Shela
A charming ensemble of interconnected historic homes near the seafront in Shela Village. Each house reflects traditional Swahili architecture and is adorned with local antiques, exuding timeless character and elegance.
Each property can be rented separately or combined with adjoining houses, accommodating anywhere from 2 to 22 guests.
Prices start at 250€
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Kizingoni Beach
Jahazi House is a luxury beach villa located on tranquil Lamu Island in Kenya. A paradise with a full-time staff including gourmet chef!
House – 5 rooms (sleeps 10) A full-time staff (private chef, housekeeper, butler, gardener …) is included in the house price.
It is self-catering and menus (local food, vegan, seafood, allergy friendly…) are designed with you.
Prices: From 652€
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Kipungani
Bandas – Barefoot Luxury
Nestled in sand dunes where the Lamu channel meets the Indian Ocean, eight uniquely designed bandas. Emerald mangrove forests, life-sustaining coral beds, sand dunes, sparkling equatorial skies…No shoes, no news!
Eco Features&Sustainability: Solar power, water from a well, low visitor footprint, traditional craftsmanship, sustainable menu, zero plastic, resident goats and chickens, no air-con, no TV, eco-cosmetics, paperless systems, composting….
In 2021 Kizingo established its foundation, Juamwezi Pamoja, with a mission to support the people of their local village and wider community.
Prices: From 332€ full board
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Kiwayu
Tucked away in the peaceful Lamu Archipelago, this hidden retreat offers an escape from the modern world’s hustle and bustle. Surrounded by soft white sand, turquoise waters, and serene creeks, it provides an unforgettable atmosphere in an unspoiled setting.
Nestled in the Kiuaga Marine National Reserve, this sustainable paradise is built with local materials, offering a truly serene and untouched getaway.
Prices: From 200 USD
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Kizingoni Beach
Cabanas – Barefoot Luxury
Each cabana offers a double bed, bathroom, and private terrace, surrounded by nature for maximum privacy. Located on a raised sand dune, the Cabanas share a pool and dining area with ocean views. Built sustainably with local materials, they are 100% off-grid and support the local community.
Prices: From $220 per night per adult.
Check availability, prices, photos, and details by clicking the button below the photo
Manda Island
This small boutique lodge offers a secluded retreat on a private island in the Lamu Archipelago, combining beach and bush experiences. Stay in palm-thatched cottages surrounded by soft white sand, coconut palms, and wildlife for a tranquil escape.
Prices: From 260€
Check availability, prices, photos, and details by clicking the button below the photo
Manda Island
Designed and built to reflect Lamu’s heritage tradition, The Majlis combines 39 superbly appointed luxury air-conditioned suites built with Western comforts and local tradition.
Prices: starting from 511€
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If you have any questions or need personalized recommendations, feel free to reach out!
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION
This selection is regularly updated, so be sure to revisit for new accommodations that I will be adding over time. If you find it helpful, please share it with lovers of design and low key luxury.
As always, in my guides, I strive to give visibility to independent, small accommodations with soul, character, and charm, catering to the design-oriented traveler who appreciates unique and creatively curated spaces, embracing the essence of slow travel and a mindful approach to hospitality.
In Lamu archipelago there are incredible accommodations. This is a small hand-picked selection. If you know of any special places that you think should be added to this section, please contact me to consider including it.
Check out this link for travel inspiration on Lamu
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Please, share this selection if you found it interesting. By doing so, you help us reach more people.
I only recommend places where I would stay ourselves. Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links. This means that if you click on them and book, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep this project going and continue curating beautiful places to stay around the world.
The photos are selected from the locations’ websites, their socials or from the platforms where they are advertised.