Munira Camp, Kiwayu Island.

High on a sand ridge on remote Kiwayu Island, just sixty kilometers south of the Somali border, and fourty miles North of Lamu Island, Munira Camp is an exceptional property in an unsurpassed location. For sheer remoteness and untouched simplicity, there’s nothing like it on the East African Coast. Long deserted beaches stretch for miles, ridged with sand dunes spotted with scrub bush and acacia trees. Just offshore, acres of coral extend into Kiungu National Marine Reserve, a protected area that stretches all the way to Somalia.

The main area of Munira Camp looks out towards the eastern side of Kiwayu, where the islands of the Lamu Archipelago meet the mainland’s Dodori Game Reserve and Boni Forest Reserve. The view is beyond incredible – perched on the ridge of the island, the water is visible from either side. After a morning spent snorkeling around the plentiful reefs that border the island, lunch is served on the eastern beach in the shade of a rustic makuti shelter, where a spacious hammock is perfect for watching the waves. There, a barbecue is set up, with tables in the shade facing the long stretch of deserted sand. Back at the main area, hand-blown glass buoys tied in coconut ropes hang from the rafters and mobiles made from coral and cuttlefish shells blow gently in the afternoon breeze.

Dinner is served on Makuti mats around a communal table, but not before sunset – accompanied by ample sundowners and the infamous dawa cocktail is thoroughly enjoyed. A telescope is never far from the table and owner Mike Kennedy, a stargazer at heart, knows exactly where Jupiter will rise that night. A hanging bed and a low siting area plied with kikoi-covered pillows create a sociable area for after-hours relaxation. Once the stars are out and the moon is shining, a four-course dinner is served under the bright African sky, the horizon shadowed in darkness, the lights of civilization far from sight. During full moon, you don’t even need your lantern – the sandy path back to your private beach banda is illuminated in an ethereal and almost heavenly glow.

The Camp was started by Mike and Caroline Kennedy nine years ago. They have created a beautiful place which completely blends into the natural environment. The camp is totally eco-friendly running on solar and wind power. Water is brought in by a team of donkeys from a well about half a mile away. There are 7 comfortable spacious bandas, built of makuti and Jambies (local matting made from palm fronds). They are all beautifully positioned each with panoramic views of the ocean and surrounds, all with total privacy.

The island itself is 12 miles long by half a mile wide. There are lots of caves and coves to explore. There are also two villages on the island, Kiwayu, an hour’s walk to the South and Chandani, 20 minute walk North. There is an extensive mangrove creek system, ideal for bird watching and light tackle fishing. Added to this is a 6 mile virgin beach (no beach boys) and spectacular snorkeling over a myriad of unspoilt coral reefs. The food is influenced largely by a Swahili flavour, which is characterized by coconut milk and Arabic spices. International cuisine is also provided, all fresh and in abundance.

There are two 33foot motorized sailing dhows, Munira and Mwezi, these are available for hire for explorative trips. Overnight or day trips can be arranged to the Island of Lamu. Deep sea fishing, scuba diving, water skiing and windsurfing also available. Game drives or walks on the main land are also available, dolphins and whales are often seen off the Coast of Kiwayu.

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