The Fashionable Frequent Flyers

When travelers think of Kenya, the first things that come to mind are often a thrilling safari in the Maasai Mara, the bustling energy of Nairobi, and, of course, the pristine beaches along the Kenyan coast. But if you’re looking for a destination that seamlessly blends Swahili culture, coastal serenity, and an intimate escape, then Lamu Island should be at the top of your list. On my latest trip, I had the pleasure of staying at Kilele House, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Nestled in the heart of Lamu, this stunning property offered the perfect setting for a group getaway with six friends. From its luxurious accommodations to its warm hospitality and authentic local experiences, Kilele House provided everything we needed for an unforgettable stay.

For starters, yes—Lamu is an island off the coast of Kenya, which means boats are the main mode of transport. Our host thoughtfully arranged a boat transfer from the small airport (Manda airport to be exact) where we landed, making our arrival seamless. The moment you step off the plane, you’ll notice a crowd of locals offering to ‘help’ with your luggage for a small fee—a common sight in Lamu. Once we found our way to our boat, named ‘Lady Gaga,’ we cruised across the water, heading toward Lamu Island.

💡 Pro Tip: Wear an outfit you don’t mind getting wet and opt for sandals—chances are, you’ll have to step off the boat directly onto the sand!

When we reached the shore, our host greeted us with an ATV, which is one of the few motorized vehicles on the island and whisked us away to Kilele House, just five minutes away. From the moment we arrived, the hospitality was unmatched. Stepping onto the property felt like entering a hidden oasis. The house stood tall and elegant, with a stunning pool as its centerpiece. The interiors exuded charm, with intricately carved furniture, vibrant, plush pillows, and an ambiance that felt straight out of an ‘Arabian Nights’ fairytale. Every detail, from the warm lighting to the open-air design, added to the magic of the space. Check out the tour of the house here!

Our host ensured every detail was taken care of—from stocking the house with our favorite drinks and snacks (at an additional cost) to organizing special entertainment for two nights. His attentiveness truly set the experience apart. The in-house chef and housekeeper were another highlight, elevating our stay with deliciously curated meals and a well-maintained, stress-free environment. One of the biggest highlights of our stay? The food, of course! Every morning, our chef prepared a classic Lamu breakfast spread, featuring fresh, ripe fruits, buttery pastries, and perfectly cooked eggs. But the real showstoppers were the seafood platters—loaded with juicy, freshly caught delicacies—and the fragrant, spice-infused goat biryani that had us going back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Dining at Kilele House felt like an experience in itself. With the ocean breeze drifting in, the rich Arabian-inspired décor, and Lamu’s tranquil atmosphere setting the scene, every meal was something to savor.

Beyond the comforts of the house, we experienced two truly magical nights of entertainment. One evening, we set sail on a traditional dhow boat, gliding across Lamu’s tranquil waters as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues. The gentle sway of the boat, paired with the rhythmic lapping of the waves, made for an unforgettable, almost cinematic experience. Another night, we gathered around a crackling campfire just outside our apartment, where local performers brought Lamu’s rich culture to life through music, dance, and storytelling. The energy was electric, and the authenticity of the experience made our stay feel even more special. But the fun didn’t stop there! We ventured off on our own to check out Lamu’s famous floating bar, a must-visit spot for nightlife lovers. After a short boat ride, we arrived to good vibes, top Afrobeats hits, and massive portions of fresh seafood. The atmosphere was lively, carefree, and full of energy—the perfect way to round out our time in Lamu. During the daytime, we also had the chance to explore the historic town and boy was it filled with Donkeys! It was a time!

Overall, my stay at Kilele House was truly unforgettable, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Lamu. From the warm hospitality to the incredible food and thoughtfully curated experiences, it felt like a home away from home. That said, I’d rate my stay a solid 4 out of 5—not because it wasn’t amazing, but because of a few minor factors that could be improved. While the house itself was beautiful and well-designed, we did encounter a few maintenance quirks that could use some attention. Additionally, navigating Lamu requires some logistical planning, as transportation relies heavily on boats and ATVs. This adds to the island’s unique charm, but it’s something to keep in mind for travelers who prefer more convenient accessibility. Another important note: Lamu is a historically Muslim town. While we were assured that we could wear whatever we wanted, I wish we had been better informed about local norms—as our outfits did attract prolonged stares when we ventured into town. While this didn’t take away from our overall experience, it’s something future travelers should be aware of to ensure a respectful and comfortable visit. Despite these minor considerations, Kilele House offers a luxurious yet authentic stay in Lamu. If you’re looking for a stunning retreat with top-tier service and a rich cultural experience, this is the place to be!