The Majlis Resort

The Majlis Resort sits on the western shore of Manda Island overlooking the calm waters of the Lamu channel and the historic town of Lamu Old Town.

The resort occupies a long stretch of beachfront framed by coconut palms and traditional Swahili architecture. Because of its position facing Shela village and the channel, guests enjoy constant views of sailing dhows moving between the islands.

Unlike the busier beach destinations along Kenya’s southern coast, the atmosphere here feels timeless and deeply connected to the Swahili heritage of the Lamu archipelago.

Landscape & Setting

The Lamu archipelago forms a chain of islands separated by narrow channels and tidal flats along Kenya’s northern coastline.

From The Majlis, the view extends across the Lamu channel toward the whitewashed houses and narrow streets of Lamu Island. Meanwhile, sandy beaches and mangrove-lined waterways surround the island.

As a result, the landscape feels very different from Diani Beach, combining traditional coastal culture with quiet tropical scenery.

Accommodation

Accommodation at The Majlis Resort consists of spacious suites spread across several Swahili-style houses positioned along the beachfront.

Features include:

Ocean-facing suites with private terraces
Traditional Swahili design elements
Spacious interiors with carved wood furnishings
Ensuite bathrooms with modern amenities

Because the buildings are low and widely spaced, the property retains a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

Experiences & Activities

Staying at The Majlis allows travellers to explore both the islands and the surrounding ocean.

Activities may include:

• Traditional dhow sailing across the Lamu channel
• Exploring the historic streets of Lamu Old Town
• Snorkelling and fishing in the Indian Ocean
• Walking along quiet island beaches
• Sunset sailing around the archipelago

Because the islands remain largely undeveloped, many experiences feel authentic and unhurried.

Marine Life

The waters surrounding the Lamu archipelago support a wide range of marine life.

Encounters may include:

• Tropical reef fish
• Dolphins offshore
• Sea turtles
• Birdlife along mangrove channels

Fishing and sailing have long been part of daily life in the region.

When to Visit

The Majlis Resort can be visited throughout most of the year.

December – March
Warm temperatures and calm seas create excellent beach conditions.

June – October
Pleasant weather and moderate breezes.

April – May
Seasonal rains occasionally affect the region.

Insider Tips

Sunset is often the most beautiful time of day in the Lamu channel as dhows sail between the islands.

Meanwhile, visiting Lamu Old Town reveals one of the most historically significant Swahili settlements on the East African coast.

Because Manda Island remains relatively quiet, the beaches around the resort often feel very secluded.

Oloi Shorua Must-Do

Take a traditional dhow sunset sail across the Lamu channel, passing between Manda Island and Lamu as the light fades over the Indian Ocean.

Oloi Shorua Recommendation

We recommend combining time at The Majlis with an afternoon visit to Lamu Old Town, allowing travellers to experience the distinctive Swahili culture that defines the archipelago.

Planning Your Safari

Many journeys include:

You can also explore:

At Oloi Shorua we design bespoke safari journeys that combine the finest lodges across Africa’s most remarkable wildlife landscapes. Speak with us to begin planning your safari.