Step into Another World at the Lamu Cultural Festival this November

Lamu Cultural Festival

Off the shores of Northern Kenya the island of Lamu offers travellers an opportunity to “step into another world.” For three days in November visitors can celebrate the islands unique Swahili heritage during the Lamu Cultural Festival 15-18 November.

Preparations are well underway for this year’s festival as local and international tourists are expected to flock to Lamu with improved security in the region. The Government amped up security measures to ensure the safety of tourists following incidents last year. As a result, there have not been any more attacks in the region.  Recently in Australia, the Department of Foreign Trade (DFAT) has lowered the travel warning for the Lamu coast.

Lamu Old Town has a unique heritage with more than 700 years of continuous settlement. Its rich heritage and traditions have earned the Island a place in the coveted UNESCO’s World Heritage List. 

Lamu Cultural Festival

The four day festival will be characterised by traditional dances, displays of handicraft and unique competitions on water and land. Visitors will also be treated to Swahili poetry, donkey races, dhow races, henna painting, before being the audience in a Swahili bridal ceremony. Musical performances will also be held by locals. The Lamu Cultural festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience the island’s unspoiled beaches, medieval ambience, architecturally magnificent Old Town, gracious population, and traditions of an enchanted island where history continues to live.

According to the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Managing director Muriithi Ndegwa the event has been attracting hundreds of local and international tourists, “We expect higher participation this year owing to enhanced marketing and security in the region,” assured the Managing director.

Lamu Cultural Festival

“The festival will also be used to showcase KTB’s continued commitment towards the diversification of the tourist products, to complement the traditional safari with culture and beach experiences that continue to draw thousands of Australians to Kenya,” said Mr. Ndegwa

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