Lamu
Among the places of Kenya’s coast, Lamu stands out for its Swahili old town and maritime setting. The town occupies the eastern shore of Lamu Island in the Lamu Archipelago, beside the Indian Ocean and long connected to trade across the western Indian Ocean. Lamu Old Town became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, recognized for its exceptionally well-preserved Swahili urban fabric: narrow streets, coral-stone buildings, carved wooden doors and courtyards shaped by African, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences. Dhows and smaller boats remain part of waterfront life, while sandy edges and palms mark the shore beyond the dense historic settlement.
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The Indian Ocean defines the setting of Lamu — waterfront streets, dhow traffic and daily routines belong to an island town separated from mainland Kenya by narrow channels and mangroves. Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among East Africa’s best-preserved Swahili settlements, shaped by centuries of trade across the Indian Ocean. Its narrow lanes are lined with coral-stone houses, many marked by elaborately carved wooden doors. Motor vehicles are largely absent from the historic town, where people travel on foot, by bicycle or with the help of donkeys. Traditional dhows remain an important part of the harbour’s identity. Discover other points of interest through webcams located across Lamu County.
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Lamu is best known in Kenya for Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of East Africa’s best-preserved Swahili settlements. Set on Lamu Island in the Lamu Archipelago, it faces the Indian Ocean and remains defined by coral-stone buildings, carved wooden doors and a maze of narrow lanes. Donkeys, rather than cars, are central to movement through the old quarter, while dhows link the island with neighbouring shores and reflect centuries of seafaring trade. Mosques and courtyard houses reveal enduring Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences along this coast. Continue through nearby webcams to explore different parts of the Lamu Archipelago.
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The Great Rift Valley and the Indian Ocean coastline define much of Kenya — their contrasts support farming, fishing, trade and tourism. Nairobi is a major commercial centre in East Africa and home to Nairobi National Park, where wildlife moves close to the city. Maasai Mara National Reserve is known for the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra from Tanzania’s Serengeti. Near the equator rises Mount Kenya, the country’s highest mountain; its protected area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Swahili culture is especially evident on the coast, including in Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO-listed settlement shaped by centuries of Indian Ocean trade. Find related webcams in the surrounding area to build a fuller picture of Kenya.
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