simple, no frills beach spot, popular with dolphins
Guide Price: From: $195 To: $195
Most people visiting Lamu tend to stay within Lamu town or Shela village, but there is certainly something to be said for the location of this small property owned by Mary Jo and Louis Van Aardt. On the end of an empty 12km beach, and promoted as the ultimate 'no news, no shoes' destination, Kizingo is a cracking little place - great value and simplicity incarnate.
There is a little of the personal eclectic touch in the furniture and the atmosphere is very much that of being in the home of a good friend; relaxed, hospitable and informal to the last. The eight palm bandas are widely spread out, each with their own bit of beachfront. Don't expect too much in the way of frills but enjoy the "Robinson Crusoe on an upgrade" feel along with great food and ice cold beers in the fridge. For those desperate for action, it is possible to visit Lamu, go snorkelling on the reefs, swim with the dolphins or go for a bike ride inland.
A handful of private 'houses' have recently been built in the dunes farther behind, as the beach escape of a few clever upcountry Kenyans and their mates. Although looked after by the van Aardts and also available for rent, this may be a step too far for some and we'd recommend sticking with the lodge and being content with these 'houses' occasionally disgorging a buccaneer or two for dinner or a session around the bar.
This is a great island retreat and one of the few places where you can genuinely experience unspoilt beaches all to yourself. And don't be put off by the low price. In an era where quality is increasingly judged by how much you've paid your interior decorator, Kizingo is bucking that trend in a wonderfully refreshing way. Outstanding and it deserves to be supported.
6 bandas overlooking the beach
From: 195 To: 195
simple, no frills beach spot, popular with dolphins
Incl. FB accom. Airport boat transfers. Excl. Drinks, activities.
Lamu is an island with a main town characterised by narrow streets and Swahili architecture; tall houses of white-washed coral block built around a shaded central courtyard and often with a flat roof from which one can enjoy the sea-breeze. Read more?
Kenya is the most established safari country, and consequently you have to step a little off the conventional route to find real wilderness, but it’s certainly there. Kenya also has much going for it as a family destination, and also a good number of very individual safari camps and lodges with a personal approach that makes your experience very special. Kenya also has a particularly diverse ecology which ranges from snowy mountains to true desert, rolling grassy plains filled with wildlife to craggy scrub intersected with dry riverbeds, sparkling beaches and volcanic ranges. Read more?
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Catherine's long experience of, and enthusiasm for Africa, makes her a mine of travel information. Add to the mix her vivacious character and inscrutable attention to detail and there are few people you'd rather have plan your holiday.
At Natural High, we've had long experience putting together trips in Africa that really work. Whether it's intimate bushcamps in out of the way places, or a private lodge in one of Africa's top-billing wildlife areas, light mobile camping or remote island escapes, we know there is a lot to choose from. We're absolutely confident that we can recommend the right places for you.
