Kipungani Explorer

Overlooking a deserted 14 km beach on the south-western tip of Lamu Island, Kipungani Explorer is a dream destination for those seeking a true desert island holiday. After a 90 minute flight from Nairobi, you will be met at Manda Island and transported by boat to the lodge, which is located two degrees south of the Equator.

Our 14 spacious and secluded chalets sit above the soft white sands of Kipungani Bay, which is Swahili for 'the place of fresh air'. Shaded by the palm trees that line our 600 m beachfront, the chalets are constructed entirely from local materials, with mkeka matting floors and makuti thatch roofs woven by the residents of neighbouring Kipungani Village. The large interiors are a picture of rustic simplicity, with giant king-size beds and all furniture handmade from local mangrove and palm woods. Each chalet has an ocean-facing verandah with local funzi sofas and chairs piled high with colourful cushions. Amenities include freshwater showers, flush toilets, and separate dressing areas with wash basins.

Facilities:

Delectable catch-of-the-day seafood and continental cuisine.

• Seawater swimming pool with all-day bar service.
• Lounge and deck terrace with hanging moon-beds.
• Guest library with variety of novels, magazines and games.
• Gift shop with local handicrafts and 'beach essentials'.
• Fresh water for bathing from our own wells.
• Reliable generator power supply.

Public Areas:

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

Ecotourism:

Kipungani Explorer enjoys a uniquely harmonious relationship with the residents of neighbouring Kipungani Village. Half of the lodge's staff come from the village, from where we also buy all our seafood and materials for repairing our bandas and boats.

Since 1999, Explorer has helped to completely rebuild and equip the Kipungani Primary School through a charitable 'twinning' with a London Nursery School, 'Paint Pots'. Explorer guests have also contributed the salary of an extra teacher and helped to launch an annual prize-giving day. The lodge is currently working on a plan to start a second school in Mpakatoni, from where several other staff members hail.

Services:

Welcome drinks for all guests upon arrival.

• Reliable and efficient laundry services.
• Early morning coffee or tea served on your verandah.
• Safety deposit for all guests' valuables.
• Marine radio links to fax and phone in Lamu town.
• Bottled water and insect repellent in all chalets.
• Treated mosquito nets on all beds.

Activities:

Snorkelling and diving on the reefs off Kinyika Rock and Manda Toto (November to March).

• Windsurfing in the sheltered Lamu channel.
• Creek or deep sea game fishing.
• Sailing aboard our own Arab dhow.
• Bird walks in and around the property.
• Visits to Lamu's historic mosques, markets and museum (additional charge).
• Day trips to the ancient ruined forts of Manda Island (additional charge).
• Visits to our neighbours in Kipungani Village.