Kayaking the Lamu archipelago, Kenya

Experience Kenya's first sea kayak safari, offering unique eco-friendly access to the remote, wild and beautiful islands of the Lamu Archipelago.

Paddle through the amazing Kiunga Marine Reserve, learn about the ancient civilizations of the region and the marine ecology, and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, fishing, birding and exploring the wildlife of the tropical islands. Kayak experience is useful but not necessary, the only prerequisite is a healthy spirit for adventure and fun! The choice of tandem, stable, sit-on-top kayaks makes it possible for novices to enjoy kayaking. A great safari on its own or an excellent tag-on to one of our wildlife safaris. From US $2,520 (5 days) ex flights

Flying from Nairobi into the southern point of Kiunga Marine Reserve you will be met at the airstrip by the expedition leader and will drive north through the remote and wild Dodori Reserve. The backup dhow will collect you and transport you to your first nights camp on one of the many picturesque and uninhabited islands. The next few days you will slowly paddle south through islands, reefs and mangrove channels. On route experience the amazing marine life, multitudes of water birds and underwater reefs. You will pass some local villages and watch the local dhows set sail for the days fishing. Depending on the time of year you may witness turtle hatchlings, flocks of roseate terns, inquisitive dolphins and curious land animals.

Each day will involve about 10kms of paddling with minimal bay crossings or exposure to significant currents or swells. The level of fitness for this trip could be assimilated to that of doing a 10km hike/day. The distance can be easily covered each day but the emphasis is on enjoying the surroundings and not grinding from A to B. There will be time in each day to enjoy other activities and to explore or simply relax. The professional guides will keep the group moving and offer assistance and knowledge on the local culture and wildlife. From US $3,840 (8 days) ex flights - experienced paddlers

This tour includes much of the 4-day tour’s activities plus a visit to the historic southern islands outside of the Kiunga Marine Reserve. After flying into the Kiunga Marine Reserve and paddling south through the channels, reefs and islands of the Reserve paddlers will approach Pate Island, pass Faza village and view the ancient Siyu Fort. Continuing south paddlers will cross Manda Bay, pass along mangrove channels and approach the oldest town on the east coast of Africa, Lamu.

This tour requires a higher level of fitness and kayak experience. Paddlers will be required to cross large bays with exposure to ocean swells and currents. Distances covered vary between 10 and 20km per day. There will still be plenty of time to enjoy activities such as snorkelling, fishing and exploring with the same level of comfort and relaxation offered in each night’s camp. Throughout the whole tour the professional guides will direct the trip and keep you informed of the local cultures, historical sights and wildlife. On arriving in historical Lamu town your final night’s accommodation will be in a local lodge, the guides will escort you through the narrow streets and markets and on the final day the dhow will transport you to the local airstrip on Manda Bay for your flight back to Nairobi. Each night of your expedition will be spent on one of the many islands within the Lamu Archipelago. Pre-selected sites have been chosen, depending upon the route and weather. Most nights on the 4-night tours are on uninhabited islands within Kiunga Marine Reserve. On the 7-night tour you will spend one night in a lodge in Lamu Town. Despite the wild and remote area every emphasis has been placed on comfort and enjoyment - no sleeping bags or ‘cosy’ domed tents.

Our accommodation is in classic cottage shaped safari tents that you can stand in, custom designed for improved ventilation and comfort, with rollout mattresses, bedding and a side table. Outdoor facilities include safari hanging showers and temporary outhouses.

Being in a nature reserve all efforts are made to be eco-friendly and guests will be encouraged to participate in eco-camping etiquette. Camp staff will be on hand to set up each day’s camp and to ensure no litter is left when they break camp. The camp kitchen will be supported by gas cookers and will be managed by the experienced camp chef.