Shela Village, Lamu Island.

The archipelago of Lamu is a cluster of coral fringed islands lying to the north of Kenya’s coastline. Since the 13th century, Lamu now a World Heritage Site by UNESCO was a trading hub serving great lateen-rigged dhows that sailed the monsoons from Arabia and India, buying and selling ivory, mangrove poles and spices.

Today Lamu is home to a vibrant people resulting from a blend of cultures virtually undisturbed by the turmoil of modern times. Still today you will find no cars on Lamu Island and that the only means of transport is by donkey or by foot.

Within the picturesque archipelago of Lamu lies a village called Shela. This village with a charming character is just a short boat ride or donkey ride from Lamu town. Located right on the sea, the village is a pleasant tangle of narrow sandy lanes, tall stone houses, some smaller thatched Swahili dwellings, mosques, ruins and a spacious square ringed with a few market stalls and small shops.

Wandering through the village lanes you will meet the friendly locals going about their business. You can’t fail to notice the cultural and religious mix of the people from their manner of dressing; women in the traditional discrete black bui-bui, the men doning long flowing white gowns and the courteous mannerisms common with the coastal dwellers. As for traffic, you will surely meet a large number of donkeys which are widely used for transport.

The beach starts just after a five minute walk from the village. This is seven miles of golden sands, a paradise ideal for swimming, board surfing, diving, wind surfing, water skiing, fishing, boating or just to lay back and relax.

Accommodation on the island is adequate with excellent guest houses and small hotels. To get to Shela is easiest by air. Daily flights from Nairobi, Malindi and Mombasa land on Manda Island airstrip. From there it’s only a short dhow trip (15 minutes) to Shela village.

While at Shela village, take time to explore the islands, coral reefs, take excursions on the Indian Ocean or visit historical sites and dhow building, remote fishing villages. You can also camp overnight on deserted beaches while you enjoy snorkeling and fishing on the coral reefs of Manda. Here you will practice the word of wisdom "Hurry hurry has no benefits", which means there is little merit in doing things in a hurry. Lamu and Shela is the ultimate experience for body and soul!