AFRICA EXPLORED

The leading specialist for African safaris

KENYA

LAMU

Lamu, with its aged stone buildings and narrow streets, is the oldest living settlement in East Africa and the only coastal town that retains, its original character. Little has changed since the 18th century, the island boasts but one car. People move about on foot or by donkey, the donkeys being as much a part of the scenery as the fishing dhows, mosques and exquisitely carved wooden doors. Lamu is unashamedly quiet and old-fashioned.

Kizingo

Kizingo is a “bare foot luxury” beach resort - a wonderful secluded and tranquil escape from the modern world situated at one end of a spectacular 12-kilometre beach. There are six beautifully appointed bandas along the beach, set well apart from each other, with unrivalled sea views. Each has a large double bed romantically draped with mosquito netting and comfortable chairs for lounging. Bamboo screens unfurl to give complete privacy. The en suite bathroom is well appointed with a flushing toilet, hot water shower, wash basin and dressing area. The chefs use only the freshest local produce, fish and seafood are the specialities, all served with locally-grown vegetables and salads. There are fine wines from South Africa, Chile and Italy.

The swimming is excellent, both in the Indian Ocean and in the calm waters of the channel that separates Lamu from the mainland. For the more energetic there is a big choice of activities including a guided tour of historic Lamu Town, excellent snorkelling, the chance to swim with dolphins in the winter months November to March, and cycle rides to friendly African villages on the mainland. Green turtles come up to the beach to lay their eggs between late October and June and the eggs hatch 90 days later.

Fishing is in the mangrove channels and from the shore, both fly and spinning rods are used to catch Snapper, Lady Fish and Teavellis. Deep sea or reef fishing can also be arranged, yellow fin tuna, sailfish, kingfisher are the more common catches.

Hot water and most of the electricity is provided by solar panels

The south east monsoon, the 'Kusi', blows from April to October, bringing cool weather with wild seas. July, August and September are cooler months but guests love it as it is a beautiful temperature but still swimming, sun bathing etc. The north east monsoon the 'Kas Kasi' comes between November and March bringing warmer weather and clear seas. November to April it gets hotter but then you have the crystal seas and dolphins but it is hot and some guest find it too much and prefer the cooler months.  Link to resort web site.

AFRICA EXPLORED

Thorpe Park Cottage, Thorpe Park Lane,
Thorpe Le Soken, Essex, CO16 0HN

Tel: ++ (0)1255 446250

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