๐ŸŒŠ Indian Ocean

Flights
Lamu Archipelago

Nairobi, then a domestic flight to Manda and a boat: the only recommended way in.

โš ๏ธ Timetables, opening hours, prices and access conditions may change without notice, for reasons beyond our control (season, weather, decisions by operators, venues or local authorities). Before every trip, check the information with the relevant authorities and service providers.

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๐Ÿ›ฌAirports3 options
๐Ÿ›ฌ
Manda Airport (LAU)
Manda Island, opposite Lamu

The archipelago's airport, on Manda Island. Boats wait at the jetty to cross the channel to Lamu town or Shela.

Domestic flightsBoat
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Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Nairobi

Kenya's main international airport, where long-haul flights from Europe arrive before the connection to Lamu.

InternationalConnection
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Wilson Airport
Nairobi

Nairobi's airport for regional flights, from which Safarilink flies to Manda. Allow for the transfer from Jomo Kenyatta and leave plenty of time.

Regional flightsSafarilink
โœˆ๏ธAirlines and routes3 options
โœˆ๏ธ
Safarilink
Nairobi (Wilson) โ†’ Manda

Kenyan regional airline serving Lamu via Manda Airport.

NairobiDomestic flights
๐ŸŒOfficial websiteflysafarilink.comโ†’
โœˆ๏ธ
Skyward Airlines
Nairobi โ†’ Manda

Kenyan domestic airline linking Lamu with Nairobi, Mombasa and Malindi.

NairobiMombasa
๐ŸŒOfficial websiteskywardairlines.comโ†’
โœˆ๏ธ
From Europe
Paris โ†’ Nairobi โ†’ Manda

There are no direct flights to Lamu: first fly to Nairobi, then take a domestic flight. Check connections and the baggage allowance on the domestic flight.

Long-haulConnection
๐Ÿ’กPractical tips3 options
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Boat transfer
Manda โ†’ Lamu town / Shela

About a 5-minute crossing to Lamu town (roughly KSh 200 as a guide); allow around KSh 1,200 to 1,500 for Shela. Confirm fares locally.

BoatTransfer
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Safety: access by air only
France Diplomatie

The islands of Lamu and Manda are under heightened vigilance: access by air only, as access via the mainland is strongly advised against. Check the travel advice before you leave.

SafetyTravel advice
๐ŸŒOfficial websitediplomatie.gouv.frโ†’
๐Ÿ›‚
Kenya eTA
etakenya.go.ke

Mandatory electronic travel authorisation, from USD 30, processed in around 3 days: apply two weeks before departure.

Entry requirementsOnline
๐ŸŒOfficial websiteetakenya.go.keโ†’