Swahili Cultural Odyssey – Lamu Island

Overview

Step into the timeless charm of Lamu Island, where Swahili, Arab, and African influences blend seamlessly. On this five-day journey, you will wander through UNESCO-listed Old Town, sail traditional dhow boats at sunset, and connect with artisans keeping centuries-old traditions alive. Safiriya curates the perfect balance of cultural immersion and coastal relaxation in one of Kenya’s most enchanting destinations.

Day by Day summary
At a glance
Day by Day summary
Every Mahlatini trip is tailored to your exact travel wishes—no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch with our experts to start creating your bespoke itinerary.
Day by Day summary

Low Season from $14,100 per person
High Season from $21,300 per person

Highlights

Itinerary Details

Day-by-day

Day 1

Arrival in Lamu
Fly from Nairobi to Manda Airport. Transfer by boat to your lodge in Lamu Old Town. Evening welcome dinner in a Swahili courtyard.

3 nights

Mpala Jena

All Inclusive | Standard Guest Suite
Zimbabwe

Day 2

 Old Town Heritage Walk
Guided exploration of Lamu’s narrow alleyways, mosques, and coral stone houses. Visit artisan workshops. Afternoon leisure by the waterfront.

3 nights

Selinda Explorers Camp

All Inclusive | Safari Tent
Botswana

Day 3

Sailing the Coast
Morning at leisure. Afternoon dhow sailing excursion through mangrove channels, ending with a sunset dinner onboard.

3 nights

Duba Explorers Camp

All Inclusive | Safari Tent
Botswana

Day 4

 Cultural Immersion
Day tour of nearby Shela village and beaches. Optional cooking class or Swahili poetry session. Evening cultural storytelling with local hosts.

3 nights

Duba Explorers Camp

All Inclusive | Safari Tent
Botswana

Day 5

 Farewell and Return
Morning at leisure before transfer back to Manda Airport for flight to Nairobi.

3 nights

Duba Explorers Camp

All Inclusive | Safari Tent
Botswana

Day 10

Fly today via light aircraft to Maun Airport. Here you will connect with your onward international flight.

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Tailormake this itinerary to your exact wishes

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Our trips are unashamedly high-end but always deliver excellent value for money. Our guide price covers the majority of trip costs upfront, on a per person basis, including international flights and all transfers.

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Indulge your passions

ACTIVITIES

This sample trip offers countless adventures and activities to ensure lifetime memories are made. From unforgettable thrills to indulgent relaxation, choose those that appeal most and we will curate your perfect itinerary.

Enriching encounters

ICONIC WILDLIFE

Whether you want to tick the Big Five off your bucket list or seek out specific safari species, our expert guides reveal the typical wildlife sightings to expect on this sample trip.

Sample itineraries

TRIPS TO INSPIRE

From exhilarating wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, echoes of ancient empires, and rose-gold beaches, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Whether it’s a bucket list trip, marking a milestone, or a soul-stirring retreat, let this handpicked selection inspire your next escape.

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