Hotels in Lamu: Guesthouses and Boutique Stays

Lamu is one of East Africa’s most extraordinary places to stay. The island — accessible only by boat or plane — has no traffic, a 700-year-old Swahili stone town that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a pace of life that’s genuinely different from anywhere else in Kenya. The island divides into two settlements: Lamu Town (the UNESCO Old Town) and Shela Village, 3km south, which has the island’s best beach and most upscale accommodation.

Getting Between Accommodation Zones

Without cars, movement on Lamu is by foot (Old Town is entirely walkable in 20 minutes) or by water. The channel separating the island from the mainland and the sea channels between settlements are navigated by wooden motorised boats. A boat taxi from Old Town jetty to Shela costs approximately USD 3–5 per person, or USD 15–20 for a private charter. The walk between Old Town and Shela along the beach takes approximately 45 minutes and is pleasant in the cool of the morning.

Old Town Guesthouses and Boutique Hotels

Lamu House Hotel (Harambee Avenue, Old Town) is one of the most established boutique hotels in Lamu, built into a restored Swahili merchant house. The carved wooden doors, coral-plaster walls, and rooftop terrace are characteristic of the best Lamu accommodation. Rooms from approximately USD 120/night as of 2026, including breakfast. The rooftop is an excellent place to watch the Old Town roofscape at sunset.

Amu House (Old Town, near the Fort) is a smaller guesthouse in a renovated old Swahili house with six rooms. Rates from approximately USD 80/night. The central courtyard and carved wooden furniture are the highlights. The owners are knowledgeable about local history and can organise dhow sailing trips and Old Town guided walks.

Baytil Ajaib (House of Wonders Guest House) (Old Town waterfront) is a restored merchant house with rooms from approximately USD 90/night. It’s directly on the main seafront avenue (Harambee Avenue) and offers good views of the harbour and the daily dhow traffic.

Yumbe House (Old Town) is a comfortable mid-range guesthouse from approximately USD 60/night. Seven rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, and a rooftop where breakfast is served. Good value for the location.

Jannat House (Old Town) is one of Lamu’s most characterful budget options, from approximately USD 40/night. The wooden staircase and carved interior doors are original features. Rooms are basic but clean.

Shela Village

Shela is 3km south of Old Town and has Lamu Island’s best beach — a continuous white sand stretch running 14km south. The settlement is quieter than Old Town and the majority of upscale accommodation is concentrated here.

Peponi Hotel (Shela Beach) is Lamu’s most famous hotel and has been operating since 1967. It’s a family-run property in a Swahili-European hybrid style, right on the beach at Shela. Rates from approximately USD 200/person/night as of 2026, including breakfast. The pool bar and dining terrace are social centres for anyone staying on the island. Rooms are not especially large, but the setting and service quality are exceptional. Book well in advance.

Shela White House (Shela) is a boutique guest house from approximately USD 150/night. Private and quiet, with a rooftop that has long views down Shela Beach. Good for couples seeking seclusion.

Kijani House (Shela) is a small boutique hotel from approximately USD 180/night with five rooms, a plunge pool, and a terrace. It’s well positioned near the Shela mosque and the beach is a 2-minute walk.

The Majlis Resort (Manda Island, a short boat ride from Lamu) is the most luxurious option near Lamu, with villas from approximately USD 450/night. It’s on a private stretch of Manda Island beach and includes all transfers by private boat.

Booking Notes

High season: December–March is the driest, most pleasant season. Rates at Peponi and the upper-tier Shela properties are at their peak. Book 2–4 months in advance for December visits.

Long rains: April and May see heavy rain and many smaller guesthouses close for maintenance. This is not a good time to visit.

Short rains: October–November bring light rains but reasonable weather. Rates are lower.

What to bring: Lamu has limited ATMs and cash is preferred. The one functioning ATM in Old Town regularly runs out. Bring sufficient KES or USD. Some properties accept card payment with a fee.

For things to do on the island, see our Lamu things to do guide. For planning a coast itinerary, see our Lamu and Mombasa coast itinerary.