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Lamu Island Travel Checklist

Lamu Island Travel Checklist

Lamu Island Kenya Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Meticulous organization for a smooth Lamu experience.

Chronological Planning

Steps for a relaxed and ready trip.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

6+ months, AT least two empty pages.

Kenyan eVisa

Apply on the web via official government.

Flights & Accommodation

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

Travel Insurance

Medical, evacuation, trip cancellation. World Nomads.

2

-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.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Confirm Bookings

Flights, accommodation, pre-booked tours.

Airport Transfers

Arrange boat transfer Manda (LAU) to accommodation.

Cash & Apps

Withdraw Kenyan Shillings. Get necessary 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 The PAST And 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 get reserved quickly.
  • Accommodation booked fast.
  • Book December-February, July-August early.
  • Secure better rates with advance booking.

EVisa Requirement

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

Document Readiness

  • Scans 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 required for most nationalities.

Arrival Checklist

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

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration Clearance

    On arrival 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, go 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 how much cash you need is wise.

Local SIM Card

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

Register carrying your passport and get a data bundle for mobile internet.

Airport to Accommodation

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

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

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 couple of days 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.
  • Arriving At the airport: 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 the latest travel advice.Before and during trip.
  • Monitor local news.For security updates.
  • Remain aware of surroundings.Especially in crowded areas.
  • Avoid isolated locations in the evening.Prioritize well-lit paths.

Onward Travel

  • Next Destination: Make any specific products or documents required.
  • Packing: According to airline rules 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-vat-free shopping at international airports.

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