Lamu Island Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Detailed planning for a smooth Lamu experience.

Chronological Planning

Steps for a relaxed and ready trip.

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

6+ months, 2 blank pages.

Kenyan eVisa

Apply online via official government.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international, domestic (LAU), and Lamu accommodation. For luxury/popular choices or high season.

Travel Insurance

Medical, evacuation, trip cancellation. World Nomads.

-2 Months Before

Health Consultation

Vaccinations (Yellow Fever, Hep A, Typhoid, Rabies), antimalarial medication.

Travel Essentials

Type G power adapter, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent (DEET).

Document Copies

Passport, eVisa, insurance, flights (physical, digital).

Financial Prep

Inform bank/credit card of travel.

-2 Weeks Before

Confirm Bookings

Flights, accommodation, pre-booked tours.

Airport Transfers

Arrange boat transfer Manda (LAU) to accommodation.

Cash & Apps

Withdraw Kenyan Shillings. Download essential apps (Google Maps offline, Google Translate Swahili, WhatsApp).

Itinerary Sharing

Share detailed itinerary, emergency contacts with family/friends.

Required Bookings

Secure arrangements for your journey.

Advance Booking

Flights (International & Domestic)
EVisa (Kenyan)
Main Accommodation
Travel Insurance

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights before your trip.

Essential Research

Lamu's History & Culture
Current Travel Advisories
Local Customs & Etiquette
Home Preparation: Notify neighbors, stop deliveries, secure home, pet care, unplug.

Important Reminders

points for your pre-trip planning.

High Season Travel

Flights fill quickly.
Accommodation booked fast.
Book December-February, July-August early.
Secure better rates with advance booking.

EVisa Requirement

EVisa is mandatory for most.
Apply via official government website.
Have printed confirmation ready.
Apply well before departure date.

Document Readiness

Photocopies of all documents.
Store digital copies securely.
Keep copies separate from originals.
Doctor's letter for prescriptions.

Essential Reminders

High season flights and accommodation fill quickly. EVisa is mandatory for most nationalities.

Arrival Checklist

First hours upon arrival are important for settling in, getting oriented.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration Clearance
Upon landing at your international airport (NBO or MBA), proceed through immigration. Passport and printed eVisa confirmation ready.
2
Luggage Claim
Collect your checked luggage.
3
Domestic Transfer
If flying from NBO to LAU, proceed to the domestic terminal for your flight to Manda Airport.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

Hotel Briefing
Ask staff for a local map, landmarks, and safety advice for the area.
Neighborhood Walk
Take a short walk to get your bearings, identify eateries, and understand the layout.
First Dhow Ride
A dhow ride or waterfront walk helps with orientation to the island's unique transport.

Transportation & Essentials

Cash Withdrawal

Use an ATM in Lamu Town (Equity, KCB) for Kenyan Shillings. Withdraw enough cash for several days.

ATMs can occasionally be unreliable, so planning for cash needs is wise.

Local SIM Card

Purchase a local SIM (Safaricom recommended) at Manda Airport or in Lamu Town.

Airport to Accommodation

Lamu Island is car-free. Transport from Manda Airport (LAU) is always by boat.

Your hotel usually arranges this, making for the most convenient option, especially with luggage.

Arrival Information

Lamu Island is car-free. All airport transfers utilize boats, typically pre-arranged by your hotel.

Departure Preparation

Planning your departure for a smooth exit.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Early Purchase: Buy souvenirs a day or two before departure.
Shipping: Inquire about services for larger items (carved doors, furniture).
Costs: Be aware of shipping costs and international customs regulations.
VAT Refund: Typically no formal VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Departure Timing & Checks

Boat Transfer: Ample time from accommodation to Manda Airport.
Airport Arrival: At least 1 hour before domestic flight.
Confirm Flights: Reconfirm onward domestic and international flights.
Documents: Passport, boarding passes, onward visas accessible.

Travel Warnings

Be informed for a smooth journey.

Security Advisories

Check current travel advisories.Before and during trip.
Monitor local news.For security updates.
Remain aware of surroundings.Especially in crowded areas.
Avoid isolated areas after dark.Prioritize well-lit paths.

Onward Travel

Next Destination: Prepare any specific items or documents required.
Packing: According to airline restrictions for onward flights.
Final Checks: Passport, boarding passes, necessary visas accessible.
World Nomads: For further travel insurance needs. World Nomads

Departure Logistics

Confirm boat departure time with your hotel. Factor in buffer for delays.

Duty-free shopping at international airports.

Lamu Island Travel Checklist