Kipungani Explorer Heritage Hotels Lamu, Kenya

Lamu Island, Kenya A place of fresh air and perfect peace Located on the ancient Arabian island-paradise of Lamu, Kipungani is one of Africa’s most remote, relaxing, and richly romantic coastal hideaways. Overlooking the tranquil waters of the sheltered Kipungani Channel, on the remote southwestern tip of Lamu Island, Kipungani is a dream destination for those seeking a true away-from-it-all desert island holiday. After a 90-minute flight from Nairobi, you will be met at Manda Island and transported by boat to the lodge, which is located two degrees south of the Equator, on the edge of a near-deserted 12-kilometre beach. Accommodation Our 16 spacious bandas sit at one end of Kipungani Bay, which is Swahili for ‘the place of fresh air’. Shaded by the palm trees that line our 600-metre beachfront, the bandas are constructed entirely from local materials, with mkeka palm floors and makuti thatch roofs woven by the residents of neighbouring Kipungani village. The large interiors are a picture of rustic simplicity, with giant king-size beds and furniture all handmade from local mangrove and palm woods. Each banda has an ocean-facing veranda with local funzi sofas and chairs piled high with colourful cushions. Amenities include freshwater showers, flush toilets, and separate dressing areas with wash basins. Restaurants & Bars The sunset-facing lounge and bar at Kipungani are furnished for complete relaxation, with cushion-piled driftwood furniture, hanging moon-beds, and a variety of natural discoveries ‘combed’ from our shores. The dining room sits in a small tropical garden, with an adjoining library offering guests a selection of books, magazines and board-games. In front of the building is a horizon-touching swimming pool, which offers the perfect venue for the ultimate romantic sundowner! Activities Snorkeling and swimming with ‘Africa’s friendliest dolphins’ on the reefs of Kinyika and Manda Toto Waterskiing and kayaking in the Kipungani channel Sailing and sunset cruises aboard our Arab dhows Barracuda fishing from beach, dhow or speedboat Deep sea game fishing (please book in advance) Crab-catching excursions with expert fishermen Bird walks around the property and beach dunes Visits to Lamu’s historic mosques, markets and museums Day trips to the ruined 14th century fort on Manda Island Tours of local boat-building and mat-weaving industries.