Kenya , Kenya

Lamu Old Town Walking Tour

Active

(48 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The tour will pass by the authentic narrow streets and corners of Lamu. You will be able to enjoy the Lamu sea front, the wood carvings of different doors, plenty of houses made with corals.
You will get to learn about history, swahili culture and music, the art of wood carving, silversmithing, wave knitting, and plenty of other local products with a professional guide fluent in English.
Immerse yourself in a city that has a mixed of cultures. The guide will also recommend local places to eat local food, swahili cuisine, and even places to stay. And also fun activities to complement your time in Lamu, like sailing tours, fishing tours, how to go to Takwa Ruins, etc.
Some of the attractions visited are: Lamu Market, Lamu Town Square, Lamu Fort, Lamu Museum, Donkey Sanctuary, Lamu seafront, weaving, silversmithing and wood carving local working shops, and much more.

Available options

Lamu Old Town Walking Tour

What's included

Tour Guide for the time of the tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Will meet you at your meeting point to take you around Lamu old town, where you will get a chance of seeing the Lamu Museum, Lamu Fort, Lamu market, wood carving shops, silver smith shops, German post office, Swahili house museum with unique architecture, Lamu market, and of course the Donkey sanctuary. Also you will be getting a chance to enjoy the traditional swahili music, Lamu sea front, and many lovely streets with coral and wood carvings.

You will have the chance to see the Museum which serves to colonies the first being the Oman King and at that time it was a palace for the King, then after during the time of British when British took over it was then used as their headquarter that is Imperial British East African Company and later it was converted to be a Museum. Outside of the Museum are canons which were used to bomb the Sultanet at Witu.

What's not included

entrance fees inside the fort and the museum

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

47 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet the guide called Kassim. I always wear a beige hat. And I will be in the centre of the square waiting for you. Just in front of the fort.

About Kenya

Kenya is a country of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Known for its safaris, vibrant cities, and beautiful beaches, it offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Maasai Mara National Reserve

Famous for its annual wildebeest migration and abundant wildlife, the Maasai Mara is one of Africa's most iconic safari destinations.

Nature 2-3 days Moderate to Expensive

Amboseli National Park

Known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds, Amboseli offers a unique safari experience.

Nature 1-2 days Moderate

Nairobi National Park

A unique national park within a capital city, offering wildlife viewing and conservation education.

Nature Half day Budget

Lamu Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu Island offers a unique blend of Swahili culture, historic architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Cultural 2-3 days Moderate

Mount Kenya National Park

Home to Africa's second-highest peak, Mount Kenya National Park offers challenging treks and stunning landscapes.

Adventure 3-5 days Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ugali

A dense, dough-like dish made from maize flour, often served with stews or sauces.

Staple Vegetarian

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, usually goat or beef, seasoned with salt and served with kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad).

Main Contains meat

Sukuma Wiki

Collard greens cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices.

Side Vegetarian

Mandazi

Sweet fried dough, often flavored with cardamom or coconut.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Safari Hiking Rock climbing White-water rafting Beach lounging Spa treatments Boat rides Visiting historic sites

Best Time to Visit

June to October and January to February

This is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. The weather is generally dry and pleasant.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swahili, English
Widely spoken: Swahili, English, Various local languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid displaying wealth
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport • 15 km from Nairobi
Moi International Airport • 12 km from Mombasa

By train

Nairobi Central Station, Mombasa Central Station

By bus

Nairobi's bus station, Mombasa's bus station

Getting around

Public transport

Matatus are the most common form of public transport, offering affordable but crowded rides. They are often brightly decorated and can be chaotic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Little, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nairobi Central Business District Westlands Karen

Day trips

Hell's Gate National Park

90 km from Nairobi • Full day

A scenic park known for its dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and hiking opportunities, including the famous Hell's Gate Gorge.

Lake Naivasha

90 km from Nairobi • Full day

A freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, offering a variety of activities such as boat rides, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Mount Longonot

80 km from Nairobi • Full day

An extinct volcano offering a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Festivals

Lamu Cultural Festival • November Rhino Charge • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a knowledgeable guide for safaris and cultural experiences
Carry small denominations of Kenyan Shillings for tips and small purchases
Dress in layers for safaris, as temperatures can vary throughout the day
Be patient and flexible, as travel in Kenya can be unpredictable