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
Starts - Catch your overnight flight from Seattle International to Victoria Falls
Ends - Transfer to Maun for your international flight home
At a glance
Lamu Island
5 Days, 4 Nights
Signature Cultural Journey
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.
Low Season from $14,100 per person High Season from $21,300 per person
Includes flights from Seattle International
Highlights
Explore the winding alleys and coral stone houses of Lamu Old Town
Sunset sailing on a traditional dhow boat
Visit artisan workshops for Swahili wood carving and craft-making
Guided cultural walk with local historians
Stay in boutique coastal lodges reflecting Swahili elegance
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.
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.
International and domestic airfare to Manda Airport
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (laundry, tips, souvenirs)
Optional spa treatments or private dhow hire
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.
Big 5 Safari
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Mokoro
Night Drive
Scenic Flights
Canoeing/Kayaking
Fishing
Kids Bushcraft
Food Experiences
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.
African Wilddog
Sable
Pels Fishing Owl
Lion
Leopard
Lechwe
Hippo
Elephant
Crocodile
Cheetah
Buffalo
African Fish Eagle
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.
Bespoke itineraries
Flights and transfers included
Best rates guarantee
Luxury Maasai Mara Safari
Guide Price $5,100 Per Person
Luxury boutique riad-style lodging, private dhow cruises, curated cultural workshops, spa treatments included
Wonders of the Okavango Delta
Guide Price $3,250 Per Person
Stylish heritage lodge, group cultural tours, dhow sailing included, private activities optional
Cape Town, Kruger and Victoria Falls
Guide Price $2,150 Per Person
Comfortable coastal guesthouse, shared cultural tours, dhow sunset cruise included