About
Lamu Old Town, also known as Lamu Stone Town, lies on Lamu Island in Lamu County, on Kenya's northern coast. It is a well-preserved Swahili settlement and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with origins going back to the 14th century.
What you will see
The town is built in traditional Swahili style, with houses of coral stone and doors and roof supports of mangrove timber. Its narrow lanes and low, closely set buildings give a sense of how the settlement has been lived in over many generations. Walking through it is the main way to experience the place, and the architecture is the reason many visitors come.
Planning your visit
- Getting there: The town sits on Lamu Island, so your journey will include reaching the island in Lamu County.
- Going on foot: The old town is best explored on foot, at a slow pace, so the details of the buildings and streets can be taken in.
- Contact: For questions before you travel, the listed telephone number is +254 42 633082.
Around the town
Lamu Old Town suits travellers interested in heritage, architecture and the Swahili coast's history. Because the island is a quiet place compared with larger Kenyan destinations, a visit tends to be unhurried. Combining your time in the old town with a stay on the island allows you to see the settlement at different times of day.