Description

This tour offers a wonderful insight into Kenya’s ancient history. Cruise aboard a traditional Dhow and visit various ancient historical sites. Kayak the pristine tropical waters and lush mangroves off the coast of Kenya. The Lamu archipelago consists of numerous islands, which extend about 100km north of Lamu Island on Kenya’s north coast. The archipelago is positioned just south of the Equator, along the same latitude as the Seychelles and the Galapagos Islands. A relaxing tour, kayaking is done at your pace and there’ll be many opportunities for snorkeling or fishing and relaxing on palm fringed beaches in between.

Highlights

• Exploring ancient African ruins
• Sail on a traditional Dhow
• Paddle the channels through mangroves
• Visit turtle breeding project and watching turtle hatchings
• Snorkel with millions of colourful reef fish
• Watch the sunset from a pristine white beach at the end of each day

Sample Itinerary

August to October

Day 1:
Arrive in Nairobi from your international destination. Once you’ve collected your luggage and cleared customs, transfer to Wilson Airport for your flight to Lamu. You will be met at the airstrip by the expedition leader and will drive you to the meet up with the Dhow. Once aboard you’ll sail north through Mkanda channel and Manda Bay to the overnight camp on Pate island.

Day 2:
After breakfast visit the nearby Pate Village and the ancient Fort Siyu. Board the dhow and continue to sail north passing between the island and mangrove channels. Overnight camp will be at Mkokoni Village in Liunga Marine Reserve.

Day 3:
The morning’s activities start with a kayaking orientation. Once familiar you set off through the marine reserve. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route and spend the afternoon snorkelling the reefs. Overnight stop is at Simambaya Island camp

Day 4:
Enjoy a walk around the island’s ancient ruins before setting off on the kayaks once again. The morning’s route takes you through the inner channels and mangroves offering excellent bird watching opportunities. From there paddle to the Mongosharif turtle breeding grounds where you can learn more about the turtle program. In the afternoon continue kayaking on to Kishanga Island where camp will be set up for the night. At low tide you can walk between the islands explore rock pools or enjoy some snorkeling or fishing.

Day 5:
The day’s kayaking takes you to explore the islands at leisure, snorkeling, fishing or relaxing in the sun. In the afternoon enjoy sundowners on the beach.

Day 6:
The morning is at leisure. After lunch board the Dhow and sail to Mambore Village. On arrival you’ll be met by the transfer vehicle. Drive south through the Dodori Reserve to Kiwayu Airstrip. There you will board your charter flight back to Nairobi to connect with your international flight home.

November to April the itinerary is reversed. Please note that the above itinerary is given as a brief outline only. In true expedition style the actual itinerary will vary depending on the prevailing weather conditions.

Hints & Tips

• Take lightweight, quick dry clothing
• Ensure that you have adequate sun cream and a wide brimmed hat for sun protection
• A kikoi or sarong is useful as a towel for protecting your legs from sunburn whilst paddling
• A waterproof casing for your camera is strongly recommended.