Safari Packages

MOMBASA DESCRIPTION

The largest city on Kenya’s coastline of the Indian Ocean, which stretches for over 480Km, Mombasa, with its bustling and winding narrow alleys in its historic Arab Old Town, or its landmark structure- the old Portuguese Fort Jesus, or its ecclectic mix of colonial buildings reminescent of the British influence on the formation of the city, and later, of Kenya, as a country, is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in Africa.

For hundreds of years, it lured traders, missionaries and explorers from as far away as China, Holland, and Arabia, who were all eager to access the mainland through this natural gateway to the world. Most of the coastline is protected by coral reefs, which give birth to the long stretches of sandy, white beaches occasionally interrupted by river creeks. Snorkelling and watersports, such as scuba diving, big game fishing, sailing and widsurfing are popular pastimes at the beach, and the long, sunny days mean that the sunbathing and relaxing on the beaches are possible throughout the year.

MORE ABOUT LAMU

Lamu is a place like no other, a peaceful tropical island where life is lived at it’s own relaxed rhythm, but a place whose history is as mysterious and fascinating as the winding streets of it’s medieval stone town. The island itself is a beautiful place of rolling dunes and endless beaches, where tiny villages nestle among coconut and mango plantations and lateen sailed dhows ply the waters. But Lamu’s real attraction is its Old town, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO's World Heritage Centre in December 2001. UNESCO describes it as: “The oldest and best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa, retaining its traditional functions. Built in coral stone and mangrove timber, the Town is characterized by the simplicity of structural forms enriched by such features as inner courtyards, verandas and elaborated carved wooden doors”.

Most important attractions are the fishing and vegetable markets, Lamu Museum and the whole stone Town. The town of Lamu began life as a 14th century Swahili settlement, but the island has seen many visitors and influences, including Portuguese explorers, Turkish traders and the Omani Arabs. All left their mark, but Lamu developed its own particular culture, which has ultimately endured. Lamu’s narrow streets remain unchanged, and in the markets and squares around the fort life moves at the same pace as it always has. There are no vehicles on this island, and the donkey and the dhow remain the dominant form of transport. The people of Lamu are great believers in tradition and custom, and this is a strong society built on a respect for the past. For the traveller, Lamu is a hypnotically exotic experience, made even more enjoyable by the relaxed and welcoming attitudes of the locals. To visit Lamu is to enter another world, and the visitor finds themselves becoming a part of this world. Life slows down, and long days are spent strolling along the waterfront, exploring the town or relaxing on the beaches. Dhow safaris can take you beyond Lamu into the surrounding archipelago, where isolated villages, ancient ruins and a few luxurious and exclusive resorts lie hidden among the islands of Manda, Siyu, Pate and Kiwayu. This idyllic island speaks to the heart and soul, and a trip to Lamu is a romantic experience that can become a life long affair.