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Peponi Hotel
Peponi Hotel is a small boutique hotel on the remote island of Lamu, situated in the Indian Ocean off the North Kenyan coast. The hotel started small with only four rooms but over the years through Aage and Wera, then later their son Lars and his wife, Carol, Peponi has grown in size and popularity. Even having reached our 50th anniversary the hotel still retains much of the character and charm that it had from the beginning. Small and personal, it is the perfect rest after a safari or a hide-away holiday from modern life.
Why we like it here
While staying at Peponi, you can choose to keep busy by making the most of the variety of activities on the island or simply relax, enjoy the stunning views and unwind.
Lamu has become known as the “Island of Festivals”, hosting celebrations of culture, cuisine, art, yoga, fishing and music throughout the year.
Things to be aware of
The Winds
The Eastern Coast of Africa has two seasonal winds. The South-East Trade (Kusi) which blows from May to October, a strong gusty wind that brings the rains, rough water and silt from the Tana River. During this time most boat movement takes place along inshore channels and the snorkelling is not favourable, however, there are many wonderful activities to experience on a visit during this season. The North-East Trade (Kas Kazi) blows from November to April. This summer wind brings calm, clear water, the best time for snorkelling and the fishing season. Occasionally there are strong winds, but storms are rare.
The Tides
Lamu’s life is ruled by the tide in the archipelago. There are two Low and High tides daily, with 6 hours between each. The cycle is about one hour later each day. The difference between High and Low tides vary with the moon. Spring Tide occurs every two weeks on the Full and New moons. During spring tides the current is strong in front of Peponi. Neap Tide occurs on both half-moons and has minimal difference between High and Low tide. Since the movement is so little, the water tends to be at its clearest over the Neap Tides.
Along the northern coast of Kenya between the towns of Lamu and Kiunga are the evocative islands of the Lamu Archipelago, with their medieval stone towns, charming architecture, narrow streets and delicious local cuisine. The largest of the islands are Pate, Manda and Lamu Island. Lamu offers idyllic beaches, traditional villages, ruins and the pleasure of sailing around on a dhow.
Lamu Old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa. Built from coral stone and mangrove timber, Lamu Old Town is characterised by the simplicity of structural forms which have been enriched by such features as inner courtyards, verandas and elaborately carved wooden doors.