About Lamu Old Town
Lamu is a car-free island town of narrow lanes, coral stone houses and carved wooden doors, inhabited continuously for over seven centuries. It is the best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa and has long been an important center of Islamic scholarship along the Indian Ocean coast. Donkeys and dhows remain the main means of transport. Its architecture blends Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences. Daily life still moves at a slow pace.
The Riyadha Mosque, founded by the scholar Habib Swaleh, became a renowned center of learning. Each year Lamu hosts the Maulidi celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, drawing pilgrims from East Africa and beyond for processions, recitations and dhow races. The town has over twenty mosques, and the Lamu Museum and Swahili House Museum explain local culture. Many visitors time their trip for Maulidi to experience the town at its most festive.
What to see
- Riyadha Mosque
- Lamu Fort and seafront
- Carved Swahili doors
- Lamu Museum
- Maulidi festival processions
Visiting Lamu Old Town: practical guide
- Best time
- July to March; Maulidi dates follow the Islamic calendar
- Hours
- Town open at all times; mosques for prayer only
- Entry
- Free to wander; museum fees apply
- Dress code
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees in town
- Nearest airport
- Manda Airport (LAU), 2 km by boat
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Non-Muslims should not enter mosques without invitation
- Respect quiet during prayer times
- Check current advisories for the Lamu County mainland
Festivals and special days
- Maulidi
- Lamu Cultural Festival in November
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
- Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
- Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
- Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
- Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
- Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Lamu Old Town?
Lamu Old Town is in Lamu, Lamu County, Kenya, Africa. GPS coordinates: -2.2717, 40.9020. The nearest airport is Manda Airport (LAU), 2 km by boat.
What is the best time to visit Lamu Old Town?
July to March; Maulidi dates follow the Islamic calendar
Is there an entry fee for Lamu Old Town?
Free to wander; museum fees apply Opening hours: Town open at all times; mosques for prayer only
What should I wear when visiting Lamu Old Town?
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees in town
Which religion is Lamu Old Town sacred to?
Lamu Old Town is sacred to Islam. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
