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Peponi Hotel

A family-run hotel on the water's edge in Shela village, Lamu, and the island's classic place to stay since 1967.

Kenya

Overview

Peponi has been run by the Korschen family since 1967, when it opened with just four rooms. It sits right on the water's edge at the start of Shela's 12-kilometre beach, with the narrow lanes of Shela village directly behind and Lamu Old Town a short dhow ride away. Rooms are spread through the gardens along the seafront, each with a terrace or veranda facing the sea, a traditional Lamu four-poster bed and ceiling fans. The terrace bar is the social heart of Shela at sunset, and the whole place has a relaxed, unhurried feel that makes it the perfect way to finish a safari.

At a Glance

  • Type: Family-run boutique beach hotel

  • Location: Shela village, Lamu Island, at the start of Shela Beach

  • Rooms: Sea-facing standard and superior rooms set through the gardens

  • Facilities: Pool, terrace bar, restaurant and tropical gardens

  • Children: All ages welcome

  • Best for: Couples, honeymooners and a slow few days after safari

Activities & Dining

Days are best taken slowly: walk the long, empty beach, swim, or head out on a traditional dhow to snorkel, fish or explore the archipelago. Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a short boat ride away, and trips to the Takwa Ruins on Manda Island can be arranged.

The restaurant is known for fresh seafood, and the terrace bar is the place for a sundowner as the dhows sail past.

Getting There

By air: Fly from Nairobi to Manda Island airport (about an hour and a half), then a short boat transfer across the channel to Shela. We'll arrange your flights and transfers.

Insider Tips

  • Book a sunset dhow sail around the channel at least once.

  • Visit Lamu Old Town early in the morning, before the heat.

  • Ask about the Lamu Marine Conservation Trust, started by Peponi in 1992 to protect nesting turtles.

  • Lamu is a conservative Muslim community, so dress modestly away from the beach.

  • The long rains, roughly April to June, are the quietest time on the coast, and some Lamu properties close, so check dates with us early.

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