Lamu Fort

Very difficult to buy a ticket through ecitizen. Fort is neglected. Contents of history of Lamu and Swahili culture is interesting but in dire need of modernization. Library appears indefinitely closed? Quite unclear conflicting info.

Its very educational on the history of lamu. The view from the top is the best part for me.

Lamu Fort has a wealth of history residing in its walls and lines. Built by the Sultan of Oman in the second decade at the start of the 19th century, it served to protect Lamu from invaders after the battle of Shela. The Fort served as a prison during the British imperialist conquest and is still locally referred to as 'gereza', Kiswahili for prison. Most of the rooms have been converted to offices and padlocked away from public view. The space could do with some love, as most historical sites in Kenya, but I was proud to see the curation of the Kanga Stories; origins, history, and significance of that powerful piece of cloth. The fort also hosts a library, a music studio, and spaces to conduct Swahili ceremonies. We had the pleasure of being guided by one of the staff, Danson, who did a good job. Just a small token of appreciation was expected after.

Ecitizen is killing tourism in Kenya, not only at this place but in general. I could not buy a ticket and had to send money to the guardian to let me in. Once inside it was a mediocre experience, mostly empty and nothing much really to see. The views from the roof was not as stunning as expected and because the way it's built you can't really see the sea. Not worth the fare according to me.

Situated at the heart of Lamu, the fort is a good place to experience the lifestyle and learn about the history of Lamu and its people. The good news is that once you pay the entrance fee, you can use the receipt at Takwa ruins. The views of the ocean from the top of the port are amazing.

The place could use more attention from the NMK. I was informed that renovations are on, so that's reassuring. Got the kindest of the staff members(Mohammed) who took me around the fort. It is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into Lamu history.

A magical adventure, a very welcoming place and well culturally preserved

Historical monument of ancient Swahili pple Learned of Lamu islands #UNESCO heritage