Is It Safe to Travel to Lamu?

If you’re planning a trip to Kenya’s coast, you’ve probably come across travel advisories mentioning Lamu County and wondered: Is it safe to travel to Lamu?

It’s one of the most common questions we receive at Ololo Safaris, and the short answer is yes. We believe Lamu Island is a very safe destination and one of the most unique places you can visit in East Africa.

Our family has been travelling to Lamu for the last 19 years, and we have sent countless guests there over the years. It remains one of our favourite destinations in Kenya, and we continue to recommend it to travellers looking for culture, history, relaxation, and a truly authentic Swahili experience.

Why Does Lamu Appear on Travel Advisories?

Many international governments issue travel advisories for Lamu County due to its proximity to the Somalia border.

However, it’s important to understand that Lamu County is a large geographical area that includes both the islands and remote mainland regions.

The concerns that lead to these advisories are generally related to isolated mainland areas closer to the Somalia border, places where tourists rarely, if ever, travel.

Most visitors to Lamu fly directly into Lamu Airport and transfer by boat to Shela Village or Lamu Town. They spend their time enjoying the islands, beaches, historic sites, restaurants, and cultural experiences that have made Lamu famous around the world.

Why We Continue to Recommend Lamu

At Ololo Safaris, guest safety is our highest priority. We would never knowingly send travellers to a destination we felt was unsafe.

Lamu remains one of Kenya’s most established tourism destinations and has welcomed international visitors for decades.

Many of our guests visit after their safari and often tell us it was one of the highlights of their trip.

The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and completely different from anywhere else in Kenya.

What Makes Lamu Special?

Lamu is not a typical beach destination.

Instead of large resorts and busy roads, you’ll find:

• Ancient Swahili architecture
• Narrow pedestrian streets
• Traditional dhow sailing boats
• Beautiful beaches
• Fresh seafood
• Rich cultural heritage
• A slower pace of life

There are no cars in most parts of Lamu. Transport is by foot, boat, or donkey, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from modern city life.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Lamu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlements in East Africa.

Walking through the narrow alleyways is like stepping back in time. The town’s architecture reflects centuries of African, Arab, Indian, and European influence, creating a cultural blend that is uniquely Kenyan.

For travellers interested in history, architecture, culture, and photography, Lamu is an absolute dream destination.

Our Personal Experience

As a family, we’ve been travelling to Lamu regularly for nearly two decades.

We’ve celebrated holidays there, relaxed on its beaches, sailed on dhows at sunset, and introduced many friends and guests to the island over the years.

In all that time, we’ve always found Lamu to be welcoming, peaceful, and incredibly special.

Of course, like any destination, visitors should exercise normal travel awareness and follow local advice. But based on our personal experience and the experiences of our guests, we continue to feel very comfortable recommending Lamu.

Should You Visit Lamu?

If you’re looking for:

• A unique beach destination in Kenya
• A cultural experience unlike anywhere else
• Beautiful beaches and dhow sailing
• UNESCO World Heritage history
• A peaceful place to relax after safari

Then Lamu should absolutely be on your list.

Many visitors combine a safari in Kenya with a few nights in Lamu, creating the perfect balance of wildlife, culture, and coast.

Is Lamu Right for You?

While we absolutely love Lamu, it’s important to understand what kind of destination it is.

If you’re looking for a traditional beach resort holiday with large swimming pools, organised entertainment, beach clubs, and international style resorts, then Lamu may not be the best fit for your trip.

Lamu’s appeal lies in its culture, history, architecture, and unique atmosphere. It’s a destination for travellers who enjoy wandering through ancient streets, sailing on traditional dhows, experiencing Swahili culture, and slowing down to embrace island life.

The beaches are nice, particularly around Shela, but Lamu is first and foremost a cultural destination rather than a resort destination.

Guests looking for a more classic beach holiday may prefer destinations such as Watamu or Diani Beach, where you’ll find larger resorts, more water sports, and a wider range of beachfront facilities.

For those seeking authenticity, history, culture, and one of the most unique destinations in Africa, Lamu is hard to beat.

If you’re considering a trip to Lamu and would like advice on where to stay, how to get there, or how to combine it with a safari, we’d be delighted to help.

Ololo Safaris specialises in tailor made safaris and beach extensions throughout Kenya, including Lamu, Watamu, Diani, and the Kenyan Coast.

Contact us to start planning your Kenyan adventure.