Kipungani Explorer

Accommodation

Our 13 spacious bandas sit at one end of Kipungani Bay, which is Swahili for 'the place of fresh air'. Shaded by the palm trees that line our 600-metre beachfront, the bandas are constructed entirely from local materials, with mkeka palm floors and makuti thatch roofs woven by the residents of neighboring Kipungani village. The large interiors are a picture of rustic simplicity, with giant king-size beds and furniture all handmade from local mangrove and palm woods. Each banda has an ocean-facing veranda with local funzi sofas and chairs piled high with colourful cushions-Amenities include freshwater showers, flush toilets, and separate dressing areas with wash basins.

Public Areas

The sunset-facing lounge and bar at Kipungani are furnished for complete relaxation, with cushion-piled driftwood furniture, hanging moon-beds, and a variety of natural discoveries 'combed' from our shores. The dining room sits in a small tropical garden, with an adjoining library offering guests a selection of books, magazines and board-games. In front of the building is a horizon-touching swimming pool, which offers the perfect venue for the ultimate romantic sundowner!

Local Links

Kipungani enjoys a uniquely harmonious relationship with the residents of neighboring Kipungani village. Fifteen of the lodge's full-time staff come from the village, from where we also buy all our seafood and materials for repairing our bandas. The lodge has been responsible for building and equipping Kipungani model primary school, and recently helped to build and staff its first health clinic in partnership with the Canadian charity, ADRA. The property also supports the planting of indigenous trees and the promotion of marine and mangrove conservation messages among the local community.

Facilities and Services

Freshwater swimming pool with all-day bar service
Gift shop with local handicrafts and 'beacb essentials'
Safety deposit facilities for all guests' valuables
Fresh water for bathing from our own wells
Reliable generator-backed electricity supply
Mobile telephone coverage and VSAT Internet links
Boat connect/oni fo Lamu town and Manda airport.

Activities

Snorkeling and swimming with 'Africa's friendliest
Dolphins' on the reefs of Kinyika and Manda Toto
Waterskiing and kayaking in the Kipungani channel
Sailing and sunset cruises aboard our Arab dhows
Barracuda fishing from beach, dhow or speedboat
Deep sea game fishing (Please book in advance)
Crab-catching excursions with expert fishermen
Bird walks around the property and beach dunes
Visits to Lamu's historic mosques, markets and museums
Day trips to the ruined 14tn century fort on Manda Island
Tours of local boat-building and mat-weaving industries