Lamu town is the oldest living Swahili town in Kenya, comparable to Zanzibar in Tanzania.

 The town dates back to the 12th century. Since this time, Lamu has flourished as a maritime trading centre whose main population, the Swahili tribe, engaged in international trade, fishing and farming.

Lamu was listed World Heritage site in 2001 for its unique social-cultural life, which has remained relatively unchanged for centuries, and for its architecture which demonstrates the cultural influences that have come together over several hundred years from Arabia, India, Europe, utilizing traditional Swahili techniques to produce a distinct culture.

The population of Lamu remains almost exclusively Muslim; Men still wear full length robes known as Khanzus with Kofia caps, while women cover themselves in the black wraparound cloth “bui-bui”.

Lamu appears to be a region almost frozen in time. The physical appearance and the character of the town have changed very little over the centuries. The narrow, winding streets accommodate only pedestrian or donkey traffic.

The architecture of Lamu is uniquely Swahili, with its narrow streets, storied buildings, intricately carved wooden doors and mosques. Most buildings date back 18th century or before and are constructed out of local materials including coral blocks for the walls, wooden floor supported by mangrove poles, and palm thatched “makuti” roofs.

In the early 1970’s, Lamu became famous for its reputation as an exotic, remote and self-contained society. It became a spiritual centre of sorts for hippies and other non-conformists drawn to its undisturbed traditional culture. It was often described as the Kathmandu of Africa.

Lamu is said to be positioned of one of the world ley-lines, where special rejuvenating and enlightening powers are said to be focussed. It is a truly enchanting place. And almost perfect fusion of the past and the present with the past almost dominating at times.