| Activity |
Long Dry Season Jun–Oct |
Short Dry Season Jan–Mar |
Long Rainy Season April–May |
Short Rainy Season Nov–Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Holidays | Excellent | Excellent | Fair | Good |
| Dhow Sailing | Excellent | Excellent | Fair | Good |
| Cultural Events | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Travel Value | Excellent | High | Good | Good |
One of Lamu’s signature experiences is sailing aboard a traditional dhow. The calmest seas are typically found between June and October and again during January and February, making these months perfect for sunset cruises and island hopping.
Shela Beach is beautiful throughout the year, but the dry months provide the clearest skies, warm ocean temperatures, and ideal swimming conditions.
Lamu’s rich Swahili heritage can be enjoyed year-round. The renowned Lamu Cultural Festival, usually held in November, celebrates traditional dhow races, Swahili cuisine, poetry, music, donkey races, and local craftsmanship. (Festival dates are announced annually.)
The Lamu climate is tropical, with warm temperatures throughout the year. Unlike much of inland Kenya, the island benefits from consistent sea breezes that moderate the heat. Although Lamu experiences two rainy seasons, sunshine remains common, allowing you to enjoy the island every month.
January
The island enjoys long sunny days, making it one of the best months for beach holidays and sailing excursions.
February
Often considered the hottest month in Lamu, February has consistently sunny weather, warm ocean temperatures, and superb conditions for water activities.
March
Humidity begins to rise, although many mornings remain bright and ideal for sightseeing.
April
The wettest month of the year brings dramatic skies, quieter beaches, and attractive accommodation rates.
May
Rainfall gradually decreases while the island remains beautifully green and peaceful.
June
Fresh ocean breezes make sightseeing particularly comfortable.
July
One of the busiest months, with excellent conditions for dhow sailing and beach holidays.
August
Perfect for photography, walking tours, and exploring the island's Swahili architecture.
September
Warm, dry weather makes this a favourite month for honeymooners and couples.
October
Still predominantly dry before the arrival of the short rains later in the season.
November
The annual Lamu Cultural Festival celebrates Swahili traditions through dhow races, music, poetry, cuisine, and cultural performances.
December
Warm weather and festive holidays make December one of the busiest periods for Lamu holidays, particularly around Christmas and New Year.
General weather summary in August
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Wind speed
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Humidity
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
F°
30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in September
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in October
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in November
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Wind speed
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Humidity
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
F°
30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in December
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Amount
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Wind speed
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Humidity
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
F°
30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in January
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Wind speed
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Humidity
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
F°
30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in February
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Wind speed
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Humidity
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
F°
30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in March
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Wind speed
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Humidity
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
F°
30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in April
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What to wear
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Daylight length
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Humidity
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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C°
Temperature
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in May
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What to wear
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Amount
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30
20
10
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86
68
50
32
General weather summary in June
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What to wear
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Sunrise
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
General weather summary in July
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What to wear
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Chance of rain
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Amount
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Sunrise
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Sunset
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Temperature
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30
20
10
0
86
68
50
32
The Lamu climate is tropical, warm, and humid throughout the year, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 26°C and 32°C (79 – 90°F).
February is generally the hottest month in Lamu, with daytime temperatures frequently reaching 32°C (90°F).
July is typically the coldest month in Lamu, although daytime temperatures still average around 27°C (81°F), making it pleasantly warm for outdoor activities.
The best time to go to Lamu is during the long dry season (June – October) or the short dry season (January – March), when weather conditions are ideal for beaches, sailing, and exploring the island.
The Lamu Cultural Festival is traditionally held in November each year and celebrates the island’s rich Swahili heritage through dhow races, music, dance, poetry, traditional crafts, and local cuisine.
The Lamu rainy season has two distinct periods: the long rains from April to May and the short rains during November. Even during these months, rainfall often comes in short tropical showers rather than lasting all day.
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