How to get to Lamu?

The easiest way to get to Lamu Island is to fly into Manda Airport (LAU) on neighboring Manda Island. Domestic airlines such as Kenya Airways Express, Safarilink, Fly 540, and Mombasa Safari Air offer daily flights from major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Malindi. 

Ferries depart from Manda Island and Mokowe on the mainland to the ancient city of Lamu. If you are traveling to Shela or other parts of the island, you will need to take another dhow to reach your final destination. You can also take a bus from Mombasa to Mokowe. The best company to use is Tawakal, which offers air-conditioned buses that operate twice a day. The journey takes about eight hours.

Once you arrive on the island, it is easy to explore on foot. For longer journeys between towns, rent a donkey or travel along the coast in a dhow. Keep in mind that there are no street lights, so you should bring a flashlight if you plan to return home after dark.

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