A long layover in Lamu is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Manda Airstrip for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside LAU
Three things to verify before you walk out of LAU:
- Can you legally enter Kenya? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 50-minute journey each way by Boat Shuttle, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the KES. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some KES in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat Shuttle | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Boat Shuttle is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Lamu, we’d suggest Lamu Old Town Walk and Lamu Fort Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at LAU, check out Manda Airstrip Observation Area or Local Handicraft Display to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Lamu
If you make it into town, Peponi Hotel Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Bush Gardens Restaurant.
Inside LAU
If you’re staying in the terminal, Manda Airstrip Cafe & Snacks is your main option. Fresh Juices & Smoothies Kiosk works too if you want something quick.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Lamu layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at LAU can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Lamu for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at LAU, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Lamu itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Kenya that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at LAU
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at LAU, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Lamu doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from LAU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.