The Lamu Cultural Festival is an annual event, held in November and dedicated to celebrating, promoting and preserving the unique Swahili culture of the Lamu Archipelago. The Cultural Festival promotes the value of local traditions and customs, strengthens community values and provides an opportunity to celebrate the beauty and heritage of this unique and historical part of the Northern Coast of Kenya.

Competitive events held during the Festival include Donkey, dhow and swimming races, all of which reflect the Lamu way of life, dhows and donkeys being the main forms of transport available on the island.

The diversity of customs and traditions are also celebrated with traditional dances from all of the islands, traditional handicraft exhibitions, readings and presentations by Swahili poets and writers, musical performances by local and visiting artists, henna painting, wood carving, dhow making, mat and palm weaving. The Swahili cuisine is also an important part of Lamu Culture, abundant fresh seafood, coconut, exotic spices and tropical fruit are all a part of the traditional foods on offer.

The people of Lamu are very proud of their culture and heritage, and are very welcoming, and happy to share their island with visitors, provided respect is shown for the muslim culture especially in terms of what you wear in public places. Lamu is easily accessible with daily flights from Nairobi. There is also the possibility of travelling to Lamu by bus via Mombasa and Malindi.

As specialists in organizing trips to Lamu, we can offer a wide variety of choices of accommodation to suit all budgets, either in a hotel or guest house, or in a private house or villa. Ideally for guests interested in visiting Lamu during the Cultural Festival, it is best to stay within the town of Lamu where the main cultural events will be held. Alternatively we can offer accommodation in Shela Village, which is near the beach, from where boat transfers to town can be arranged easily on the spot.

       
For Reservations and Information Contact:
Lamu Homes & Safaris Ltd. AACC Building 3rd Floor, Waiyaki Way, Westlands
Tel: 020 4446384 / 4447397 Fax: 020 4453242 email:lamuhomes@swiftkenya.com
Website: www.lamuhomes.com

Download The Entire Lamu Cultural Festival Itinerary.doc