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How to Get to Lamu Island

How to Get to Lamu Island

Lamu Island Kenya Travel Guide

Flight Options & Airports

Major Airlines & Routes

Several domestic airlines operate flights to Manda Airport (LAU), Lamu's main airport on Manda Island. It sits directly across a narrow channel from Lamu Old Town.

Airlines Serving Manda LAU

  • Safarilink: Known for reliable service and connections.
  • Skyward Express: An established local carrier.
  • Fly540: Regular flights to various domestic destinations.

Connecting Hubs

No direct international flights to Manda Airport (LAU). International travelers fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya's main international hub.

Common Routes

  • Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL): Many domestic flights depart from Wilson Airport, closer to Nairobi's city center.
  • Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO): Some flights to Lamu also depart from or connect through NBO.
  • Mombasa Moi International Airport (MBA): Direct flights from Mombasa to Manda (LAU) are available for travelers already on the shoreline.

Seasonal Pricing

Flights to Manda (LAU) available year-round. Prices increase a lot during peak tourist seasons: The period Of december to february and July to August. Booking flights well in advance recommended.

Price Fluctuations

Prices are normally lower during shoulder seasons (March, June, September, October) and lowest during long rainy season (April-May) and November.

Airport Facilities

Manda Airport is tiny and offers basic facilities: check-in counters, small waiting area. No extensive shops, restaurants, or ATMs directly within the terminal.

Airport Transfers

Manda Airport to Island

  • Transit from Manda Airport (LAU) to Lamu Old Town or Shela always by boat.
  • Most hotels and guesthouses arrange private boat transfers for guests, often included or for one more fee (typically KES 500-1,500).
  • This the quickest, most convenient, and most common method, especially for travelers with luggage.
  • A representative from your accommodation usually meets you at arrivals and escorts you in the direction of boat.

Public Boat Option

  • Public dhows operate from the airport jetty to Lamu Town (around KES 100-200 per person).
  • Cheaper but slower, and you may walk a short distance with baggage.
  • Confirm boat transfer arrangements with your accommodation before arrival.
  • Airport functions mainly as a transfer point. Upon arrival, travelers proceed directly to the boat jetty.

Affiliate Resources for Flights

Flight Deals

Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.

Compare Flights

Skyscanner for comparing flight options.

Travel Planning

Utilize resources for seamless travel arrangements.

Land Connections

Train & Bus Travel

No direct train connections to Lamu. Kenya's SGR ('Madaraka Express') connects Nairobi to Mombasa. From Mombasa, arrange further travel by flying to Manda (LAU) or taking a long-distance bus to Mokowe.

Bus Services to Mokowe

  • Long-intercity coaches (Tawakal Coach, Simba Coach) connect major Kenyan towns to Mokowe, the mainland access point.
  • This option cheaper than flying but a much longer and less comfortable journey.
  • From Mokowe, take a short, frequent public ferry across to Lamu Island.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Self-driving not applicable for Lamu Island, as private vehicles not permitted. When operating a vehicle to the Kenyan coast, vehicle parked on the mainland at Mokowe. Parking facilities exist in Mokowe.

Road Safety Notes

  • Road connecting Mombasa/Malindi to Mokowe historically a security concern. Many travelers prefer flying to Manda Airport.
  • Check latest travel advisories from your home a nation for current security situation on specific road routes.
  • Steering on the mainland is on the left side of the road.

Car Rental

Not directly applicable for Lamu Island itself. If you rent a vehicle for mainland travel, standard international driving permit (IDP) and national license requirements apply. Check DiscoverCars.com.

Sea/River Access

Lamu's coastal location means sea travel plays a role, but not in conventional sense of international ferry or cruise ship arrivals. No direct river transportation.

Local Ferry

The 'ferry' from Mokowe on the mainland to Lamu Town is a brief, frequent, local service for persons and goods across the slender channel. This the ultimate leg of a land journey to Lamu.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes typically paid separately at Lamu's Manda Airport (LAU). These charges usually included in your domestic airfare.

Departure Timing

  • Arrive at Manda Airport at least 1 hour before scheduled departure.
  • Transfers from Lamu Old Town or Shela to Manda Airport by boat (10-20 minutes).
  • Confirm boat departure duration with accommodation the day before. Allow extra time for delays.

Airport Facilities

Manda Airport has basic facilities for departing travelers: simple check-over the counter plus a tiny waiting area. Limited amenities.

Travel Convenience

  • Food and beverage options very limited, often just a small kiosk.
  • Manda Airport designed for quick transits, not for extended waits. Plan arrival accordingly.
  • Consider travel insurance from SafetyWing or Insubuy. Check flight compensation from AirHelp.

Departure Logistics

Luggage Handling

Have minimal carry-on for easy boat transfer to the airport.

Final Checks

Reconfirm flight status before you leave where you are staying.

Enjoy Departure

The vessel ride to Manda Airport offers a final scenic view of Lamu.

Departure Day Tip

Plan your transportation from Lamu to Manda Airport with plenty of time. Confirm arrangements with your accommodation.

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