On the sun-drenched terrace of the iconic Peponi Hotel in Kenya's Lamu archipelago, the gentle breeze carries not just the scent of the Indian Ocean but also the whispers of high-profile gossip. A group of British visitors are deep in conversation about Jeremy Clarkson's potential return, speculating that his previous rental has since been taken over by a famous actor seeking refuge from personal turmoil.
A-List Sanctuary Off the Kenyan Coast
A swift online search points to that actor being Dominic West, who famously decamped to Lamu for five weeks in 2021 following rumours about his personal life. This episode perfectly encapsulates Lamu's enduring role as a discreet bolthole for the global elite. Offering comparable winter sunshine to the Caribbean but at a significantly lower cost, the archipelago has been a magnet for royalty and celebrities since the 1990s.
The allure is clear: frequent and reasonably priced flights connect the UK to Nairobi, from where it's just a one-hour hop to Lamu. The most visited islands are Lamu and Manda. Its reputation was cemented decades ago when legends like Mick Jagger, Jerry Hall, and Madonna were spotted in Peponi's bar.
Modern-Day Royal and Celebrity Residents
Today, the tradition continues. Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are known to escape to his father's holiday home on the outskirts of Shela village. The list of famous admirers is extensive, including Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Jude Law, Sting, and Sienna Miller.
The latest notable to join the community is party-loving make-up expert Charlotte Tilbury. However, as a friend and long-term island visitor, Alex, explains, the local ethos of tranquillity remains paramount. "They've had to ask her to dial the noise down," he says, noting that neighbours insist her music stops by midnight. "This isn't a party island."
An Unspoilt Gem with Deep Roots
Despite its pristine white-sand beaches, warm turquoise waters, and star-studded guest list, Lamu has remarkably stayed under the radar for mainstream tourism. The heart of the destination is Lamu Town, a traditional Swahili settlement first visited by the author in 1997. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's famed for its coral stone buildings and a captivating labyrinth of sandy streets and vibrant markets.
For travellers craving ultimate seclusion, the remote Kizingoni Beach offers a true Robinson Crusoe experience, guaranteed to provide breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
TRAVEL FACTS
A double room at The Cabanas on a full-board basis (excluding drinks) starts from £455 per night.
Return flights from Heathrow to Nairobi can be found from £525.
Internal return flights from Nairobi to Lamu start from approximately £115.
