Packing for Lamu: Lamu Island

Climate-Appropriate Attire

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics help manage heat and humidity. Pack light tops, t-shirts, light blouses, modest shorts, capris, or light trousers for daytime.

Evening Comfort

Evenings feel slightly cooler, especially if winds pick up.
A light Long-sleeved shirt or light jacket comfort.
Also offers protection against mosquitoes, more active after dark.

Cultural Modesty

Lamu home to a conservative, predominantly Muslim community. Dressing modestly a sign of respect, especially when exploring Lamu Old Town.

Dress Guidelines

Women cover shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting long skirts, sarongs (Kangas), or lightweight trousers.
Men wear shirts in public areas of Old Town and avoid going shirtless. Modest shorts or light trousers.
Swimwear acceptable at hotels/guesthouses with private pools or designated beaches. Not for general public areas.

Footwear Essentials

Sandals & Flip-Flops

Useful for everyday wear due to the sandy paths and warm climate. Choose durable and comfortable options for walking long distances.

Comfortable Walking

Closed-Toe Shoes

Lightweight Sneakers or Comfortable walking shoes. Protection and support for uneven terrain or ruins. Consider Lightweight Travel Sneakers.

Versatile Use

Water Shoes

If exploring rocky beaches or tidal flats, Water shoes protect feet from sharp coral or stones.

Ocean Protection

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keeping all your documents organized and secure for a smooth trip.

Physical Passport: Valid for six months beyond departure, two blank pages.
Printed eVisa Approval: A physical copy for peace of mind.
Photocopies & Digital Copies: Keep separate from originals (cloud, email, secure app).
Travel Insurance: Printed policy, emergency contacts, policy number. Digital copy accessible.

Vaccination Records: Yellow Fever certificate (if required), other vaccination records.
Prescription Medications: Original packaging, doctor's letter (especially for controlled substances).
Reservations: Printed/digital copies of flights, accommodation, tours.
Emergency Contacts: Family, friends, embassy/consulate in Nairobi. Written list in wallet.

Tech & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Kenya uses Type G electrical outlets (three rectangular pins). Standard voltage is 240V at 50Hz. Bring a Type G travel adapter. Most modern chargers are dual voltage; only a Plug adapter.

Mobile Phone Use

Most international phones compatible with Kenya's GSM network (unlocked).
Purchase a local SIM card (Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom) at Manda Airport or Lamu Town for calls/data. Consider Airalo for eSIMs.
Data bundles offer good value for internet access.

Photography Gear

Compact digital camera or Smartphone camera perfectly sufficient for daily moments. Enthusiasts consider DSLR or Mirrorless camera with versatile lens. Check B&H Photo for gear.

Essential Tech Accessories

A Waterproof camera like GoPro (GoPro HERO11) for dhow trips and snorkeling.
Portable chargers and power banks for devices on the go.
Cloud storage for important data and photos (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud). Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Recommended Apps

Navigation

Google Maps (download offline maps for Lamu).

Translation

Google Translate (offline Swahili pack for local communication).

Communication

WhatsApp (widely used in Kenya for locals and businesses).

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Tailor your First aid kit to Lamu's climate and potential issues.

Kit Contents

Antimalarial Medication: Your prescribed prophylaxis.
Insect Repellent: High-concentration DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Sun Protection: High-SPF, broad-spectrum, Water-resistant sunscreen and After-sun lotion.

Medications & Remedies

Bring enough prescription medications for your entire trip plus extra. Keep in original packaging with pharmacy labels. Carry a doctor's letter for controlled substances.

Over-the-Counter Essentials

Allergy Relief: Antihistamine cream or pills for insect bites or allergies.
Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or paracetamol.
Stomach Issues: Anti-diarrhea medication and Oral rehydration salts.

Specific Health Concerns

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness medication for dhow trips, especially during windier seasons.
Sea can be choppy on longer excursions.
Lamu Island at sea level; altitude sickness not a concern.

Water Safety & Hygiene

Water purification options (Personal filter like Sawyer Squeeze or Tablets) for backup and plastic reduction.
Personal hygiene essentials, like specific brands, may be difficult to find locally.
High-quality insect repellent (DEET/Picaridin) may be harder to find locally.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling & Diving

If you snorkel frequently, bringing your own Mask and snorkel often a better fit and hygiene. Fins are bulky; rent them locally.

Visibility for snorkeling often at its best in January and February.
Reef-safe sunscreen protects marine ecosystems.
Consider a GoPro HERO11 Black Waterproof Camera for underwater shots.
Check if your Travel insurance covers water activities.

Kite Surfing

Unless you are a dedicated kite surfer, renting gear and taking lessons from local schools at Shela Beach standard.

June to September for kite surfers. Strong Kusi winds provide excellent conditions.
Many kite schools operate during this period at Shela Beach.
Ensure your insurance policy covers adventurous sports if participating.
Local instructors for all skill levels.

General Excursion Gear

A Dry bag valuable for dhow trips. It protects electronics and valuables from sea spray. Quick-dry clothing practical.

Lightweight Daypack useful for daily excursions.
Bring your own Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
Comfortable walking sandals or closed-toe shoes for uneven alleys.

Equipment Considerations

Bring Your Own

Mask and Snorkel: often better fit and hygiene.
Personal water filter: Sawyer Mini, plastic waste.
Specialized electronic accessories and specific medication brands.
High-quality insect repellent and Reef-safe sunscreen.

Rent Locally

Fins for snorkeling: bulky to carry.
Kite surfing gear: unless you are a dedicated enthusiast.
Bicycles: available at some Shela guesthouses for local rides.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort Essentials

These items contribute to your overall comfort, security, and preparedness.

Travel Comforts

Lightweight Scarf or Sarong (kanga/kitenge): sun protection, modesty, beach cover-up.
Travel Pillow: for long flights or layovers.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: for quick clean-ups.
Small portable fan: for humid days.

Security & Preparedness

Valuables secure and you ready for any situation.

Security Measures

Money belt or hidden pouch: for passport, extra cash, credit cards.
Small padlocks: for securing luggage zippers or hostel lockers.
RFID-Blocking wallet: protection for credit cards and passport.
Small flashlight or Headlamp: for dimly lit alleys and power outages.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Fill with purified water to reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Bag

For market visits and general shopping, less plastic.

Portable Utensils

Hygienic choice for street food. (Spork)

Travel Journal

Capture thoughts and experiences in this unique setting.

Destination-Specific Mentions

Footwear Note

Durable Walking sandals for sandy paths and uneven alleys.
Closed-toe shoes for longer walks or ruins exploration.
Water shoes for rocky beaches or tidal flats.

Local Experiences

Quick-drying Microfiber towel useful for beach trips or general utility.
Kangas and Kitenges locally available and useful souvenirs and versatile clothing.
High-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack smart for Lamu's climate and cultural norms. Lightweight layers and sun protection essential. Prioritize comfort and respect.

Avoid overpacking items readily available or unnecessary for a relaxed island pace. Consider a Nordace travel bag for organized packing.

Packing for Lamu