LAMU

The sound of ocean waves crashing against the beach, the changing colours in the sky as dawn breaks and sunrise warms the air, palm trees gently dancing to the melody of the breeze, and pristine white sand that runs through the crevices of the toes. These are the elements that make up idyllic Lamu, the archipelago on Kenya’s coast that is a haven for anyone seeking respite from just about anything.  

While the Lamu Archipelago draws its name from its most popular island, it comprises of over 65 individual islands with unique names and histories. Collectively, these islands are part of the Swahili Coast corridor that stretches from Mogadishu in Somalia to Sofala in Mozambique. Ancient Arabic texts refer to the archipelago as The Seven Isles of Eryaya because of its seven most prominent islands. Within Lamu Island itself, poets have long described it as Kiwa Ndeo, The Proud Island. While the meanings behind these names remain unclear, they certainly add allure to the region’s character. 

Dhow trips, donkey rides, and walking tours are the few ways to get around this archipelago which remains relatively untouched by the modern day. Specifically, a leisurely stroll around Lamu town, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals just how much of a historical treasure trove it is. The town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. Its architecture is characterised by coral stone walls, intricately carved wooden doors, and verandas shaded with makuti roofs from which the island’s tranquillity can be soaked in.

For over 200 years, this island has hosted major cultural festivals such as Maulidi, an Islamic festival that celebrates the birth month of the Prophet Muhammad.  

-PAUKWA