Swahili House Museum, Lamu

National GeographicSep 8

Uncover the spiritual side of Kenya’s coastline — from ancient forests and coral reefs to one of East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlements.

Modest space in a 18th-century house with decorative niches

11 things in this story

Lamu ArchipelagoRestaurantRemote islands with a historic Swahili settlement
Swahili House MuseumMuseumModest space in a 18th-century house with decorative niches
Habib Swaleh's tombSightModest tomb visited by pilgrims year-round
Riyadha MosquePlace of worship
Elsewhere
Kaya KinondoAttractionDiani, KenyaSacred grove open to travelers via community ecotourism project
Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National ParkSightWatamu, KenyaMarine protected area with coral reefs and turtle nesting sites
Watamu Marine National ParkSightWatamu, KenyaEstablished in 1968, it was one of Kenya's first marine parks.
Malindi Marine National ParkSightMalindi, KenyaIt is claimed to be the oldest marine park in Africa.
Local OceanPlaceWatamu, KenyaNot-for-profit organization involved in turtle nesting patrols
Reefo DiversPlaceWatamu, Kenya
Mombasa Marine National ParkSightMombasa, Kenya

Swahili House Museum