Cast into the Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya, the island and town of Lamu is heir to a distinctive tradition over a thousand years old. The Swahili culture and style of Lamu are a mix of East African, Omani, Yemeni, Indian, and some Portuguese and Victorian influences. Of all the old Swahili towns of East Africa, Lamu is one of the very few remaining substantially intact.It represents the very essence of Eco-Tourism
On the tropical island of Manda, in the beautiful East
African archipelago of Lamu, our peaceful haven can be found. Established
in 2002, this eco-friendly beachfront resort offers a taste of African
paradise.
Whether it is lazing the days away in the Indian ocean, exploring Manda's
diverse scenery, both on land and underwater, or taking the thirty minute
boat journey to Lamu town and experiencing the rich Swahili culture and
history, our Beach Village is the place to stay.
Our priority is to make the client feel welcome and relaxed, our friendly
staff are always on hand to make sure guests have everything they need
for a peaceful, relaxing and enjoyable holiday.
With daily flights from Nairobi, Mombasa and Malindi, Manda Island is
easily accessible, it is the ideal choice for a beach extension after
a safari or for the pure island getaway.
ACCOMMODATION
We offer an alternative to the concrete hotel,
more of a Robinson Crusoe experience. The immaculately constructed bandas
are made from natural Kenyan materials and are equipped with modern amenities.
Traditionally designed with high windows, the sea breeze flows through,
making them the ideal retreat from the African sunshine. Individually
spaced to offer privacy, each is unique and traditionally decorated with
an outside wooden patio, chairs and tables.
The bandas are set in the gardens with drift wood and coral sculptures,
hammocks and swing beds, bird baths and trees for shade.
Here you will find the perfect place to relax away from the crowds and
hustle and bustle of the town. We are the only beach side accommodation
within Lamu and due to our superb location we enjoy the afternoon sunshine
and a fantastic view of the sunset.
5 + Double Banda - en suit shower and sink, outside WC, double bed, single bed mounted in roof.
2 + Family Banda - en suit shower and sink, inside WC, one double bed and two single beds.
1 + Treehouse - En suit shower and sink, outside WC, three floors, verandah, can sleep between two and six.
All banda's are provided with cotton sheets, towels
and mosquito nets. Each has a mains plug with a double British socket
and all have electric lighting between the hours of 7pm and 10pm, after
which paraffin lamps are provided.
"Diamond Beach Village has an open-air restaurant beside a beautiful white sand beach"- Telegraph Travel
If watching the diverse range of Manda's bird life, swimming in the Indian ocean, enjoying the African sunset with a cocktail or taking a stroll along the moon lit beach is not enough, then Manda and Lamu can offer much more.
Coral reef snorkeling Off Manda beach on small reef - equipment provided - Free
Natural pools - 30 minute walk around Manda point - equipment provided - €3-€8 for local guide depending on how many people.
Dolphin spotting and snorkeling off large island - 1 hour 30 minute boat journey - equipment provided - Local boats to hire - €20-€45
Sailing To and from Shela, (10 minutes), Lamu, (30 minutes) on Quaswa, Diamond Beach Village's own dhow - free of charge
Day trips around the islands and mangroves, sunset tours and trips to old Swahili ruins - Local boats to hire - €15-€40
Walking Along the beach and coast line of Manda island is fantastic
Through Manda island to the Takwa
ruins - Guide needed
€5
Windsurfing Lessons and equipment for hire from Shela - One hour €10
Fishing Off the beach or off Qwaswa - equipment provided - Free
Open Ocean fishing on traditional dhow or modern speed boat- Equipment provided - Local boats to hire - €30 - €350
Day trips need to be booked one day in advance, we can prepare picnics for day trips. All prices are in Euros and are subject to change depending on exchange rates.
Or perhaps you'd like to rise above the crowd in a magnificent 
'Tree House'
FOOD
Breakfast is Served between 8am-11am
Fresh fruit platter
Banana pancakes with local Manda honey and fresh limes
Tomato and basil omelet
Poached eggs on thick toast
Fresh Kenyan coffee, chai, tea, fresh fruit juices
Lunch between 11am-4pm
Grilled red snapper
Refried kidney bean burgers with salsa sauce
Fishcakes cooked to perfection
All are served with homemade chunky
chips or coconut
Rice and salad or vegetables.
And dinner between 6pm-9pm
Typical examples are:
Flamed grilled lobster with homemade mayonnaise
King prawns fried in garlic sauce
A delicious traditional dish of chapatti and bean
All are served with homemade chunky
chips, boiled
Potatoes or coconut rice and salad or mixed vegetables.
Then perhaps a magnificent dessert
Dessert Crème Brule
Banana fritters
Tropical fruit salad
Our two chefs are trained in Nairobi and can prepare a wide variety
of dishes from traditional Swahili cuisine to more conventional western
foods. All of our vegetable produce is bought locally, either from Lamu
market or depending on the season, from Manda farmers. Our seafood is
purchased daily from the local fishermen.
Or stroll to the bar for a long cool drink. Ah the pace of life!
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