Is Traveling To Lamu Safe?

Lamu Island and Manda Island in Kenya are considered safe for travelers, but it is advised to travel by plane. Cheap flights from Nairobi, Mombasa, and Malindi are available, and Watamu is also safe. The military has a presence at the airport and in the town of Lamu, as well as Sheala beach. Lamu Island is known for its art-forward hotels, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and dhow boat races.

However, travelers should avoid traveling to Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu counties bordering Somalia due to a risk of kidnapping and attacks. Lamu Island is famous for its Swahili culture and perfect beaches. The only safe means of traveling to Lamu is by plane, as Kenya’s coastal highway has been targeted by Somalian terrorists. In 2020, the foreign office announced that it would no longer advise against travel to Lamu Island, making it now deemed safe to visit this equatorial oasis.

Lamu Island and Manda Island are largely Muslim, so travelers should dress conservatively, avoiding exposed knees or shoulders or super tight-fitting clothing. If traveling to Lamu Island or Manda Island, travelers should fly to Lamu Airport (a civilian airport on Manda Island). Road transport is not recommended, as the islands are close to each other.

Despite the high risk of crime in Kenya, with the British Foreign Office lifting the travel advisory on Lamu Island earlier this year, there has never been a better time to visit this historic Swahili town. Incidents of armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, and muggings are possible.

Is Lamu, Kenya worth visiting?

Lamu Old Town offers a unique experience with traditional clothing, silver jewelry, and leatherwear. Visitors should respect local customs and dress codes while away from beaches. Manda Island, located across the narrow channel from Lamu Island, offers a more exclusive feel with its uninhabited island and archaeologically important sites like Takwa and Manda. Excavations at these sites reveal their historical legacy, including Chinese porcelain and Islamic pottery. Both islands are worth exploring for their unique cultural offerings.

Is Kenya safe for tourists in 2024?

Kenya, the business capital of Africa, has resumed tourism and business travel after a prolonged COVID-19 lockdown. However, tourists may face health hazards, petty crimes like theft, mugging, scams, and financial fraud. To plan a safe and successful business or safari trip in 2024/2023, experts have prepared an ultimate Kenya travel guide. This guide includes new entry requirements, safety guidelines, recommended vaccines, and travel advice on staying safe while touring Kenya. It is essential to keep in mind the new guidelines and take necessary vaccines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Are there crocodiles in Lamu?

The Dodori Reserve on the arid mainland opposite Lamu offers a diverse range of wildlife, including Buffalo, Lion, and Leopard. The mangrove channels are also good for birding and spotting crocodiles. Lamu Island offers a variety of accommodation options, including modern hotels, old Swahili guesthouses, basic inns, isolated resorts, and private homes to rent. There are no vehicles on Lamu Island, so exploring the winding streets and beaches is best done on foot. Dhows also regularly transport passengers between Lamu town and Shela.

Is Kenya safe for white tourists?

Kenya is advising increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. The advisory advises against travel to Kenya-Somalia border counties and coastal areas, and reconsiders travel to Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to these risks.

Is Lamu, Kenya safe to visit?

Armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, and muggings are common in Nairobi, coastal regions like Lamu County, and areas of Tana River and Kilifi Counties.

Which is better, Lamu or diani?

Diani offers luxury accommodation options with numerous all-inclusive resorts and activities, while Lamu has limited high-end options due to a small number of hotels and high living costs. This makes it difficult for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy the luxury of high-end hotels in Lamu.

In terms of budget accommodation, Diani provides better accessibility and a wider range of options, from basic guesthouses to budget resorts. Visitors can easily find suitable accommodations without compromising on quality or comfort. In contrast, Lamu has limited budget accommodations with only a few available, which may not offer the same amenities or services as higher-end options but can still provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors on a tight budget.

In conclusion, Diani offers a more affordable and accessible option for travelers seeking a luxurious experience. However, the high cost of living and limited options in Lamu can make it difficult for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy the luxury of high-end hotels.

Is it safe to go to Kenya at the moment?

The threat of terrorist kidnapping in Kenya is high, particularly targeting Westerners, including British nationals. Kidnaps have occurred in northern counties bordering Somalia and coastal counties, with further kidnaps likely. British nationals, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists, and business travelers, are seen as legitimate targets. The British government’s policy is not to make substantial concessions to hostage takers, as paying ransoms and releasing prisoners can build terrorist groups’ capabilities and finance their activities, increasing the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act prohibits payments to terrorists.

Are there snakes in Lamu?

Residents of Manda and Kiwayu islands in Lamu County are facing a tense situation due to the influx of highly venomous snakes since the start of the rainy season. The most common types of snakes reported are puff adders, cobras, green mambas, and pythons, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Is it safe to drive to Lamu?

Lamu Island in Kenya is accessible by car along the coast but not further north than Malindi. Visitors must catch a domestic flight. Kenya is safe to explore independently, but travel is restricted north of Samburu National Park and the area past the Galana River. Car delivery and pick-up services are only available to hotels within Nairobi County, excluding downtown Eastlands. If unsure, contact the company for verification.

Can you swim in Lamu?

Swimming is possible in the town, but strong rip currents can be experienced around The Fort hotel. The best museum in town, located in a grand Swahili warehouse, is a gateway to the ruins of a 15th-17th-century city. The world’s most complete medieval Swahili town, Shanghai, is the oldest archaeological site on the coast, and visitors should consult local advice before venturing into the water.

Where to avoid in Kenya?

Crime hot spots include City Cotton, Mathare Slum area near Oilibya Petrol Station, Congo area near Kawangware, Rongai, Kajiado, Kware, Noonkopir, and Changombe slums in Kitengela, Rongai, Kajiado.