About this property
This historical Arabian-style building is located in the UNESCO-listed town of Lamu. It is less than 300 metres from the seafront and 3 km from the white sandy beach. The bright rooms at Subira House have either a patio or a balcony and some have sea views and free Wi-Fi. Every room has a fan, a seating area, and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a free buffet breakfast each day at the restaurant. The restaurant serves a range of healthy organic cuisine, with packed lunches and room service available upon request. This eco-friendly property has a library and a garden with sunny terrace, and offers massages and babysitting services. Activities in the area include Snorkeling , whale-shark swimming, canoeing, yoga and a day trip to our Perma culture farm. The Lamu Airport is less than 3 km from the property, but can only be accessed by boat.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 8.5 for a two-person trip.
Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap
Most popular facilities
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking rooms
- Bar
Guest reviews
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Guests who stayed here loved
- Bernardine
Ireland
“This place is so special. The staff really made me feel at home and as someone traveling alone, this was really welcome. The location was both amazing and challenging - in the heart of everything but sometimes the bustle (and tour touting) of the...” - Alex
United Kingdom
“Beautiful building with gorgeous style and comfort. An oasis in Lamu. The staff are wonderful. Would stay here again if I came to Lamu.” - Tom
United Kingdom
“Amazing building, very friendly staff, excellent food.” - J
Italy
“The staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. Mama Subira was a very accommodating host and kindly assisted us throughout our entire stay. The breakfast was excellent. Make sure you try the banana bread by John, an excellent and creative chef!...” - Annakathatina
Switzerland
“Great historical building with an amazing Swahili architecture. We came back to Lamu after two years and even though we browsed a little bit, there was no other place that we rather wanted to stay at. Perfectly located behind the Fort, right...” - Male
Belgium
“Very authentic atmosphere, with kind welcome from Christina and Paul, helping us to guide. Amazing dinner, lovely trip to their shamba and nice exchange with other guests. Staying in the old town makes you witness the "real" life in Lamu which is...” - Georg
Austria
“We loved everything. The serenity of this old Lamuian House is very welcome after a day of exploring Lamu town and Shela. The staff was super welcoming and the food was exceptional and wholesome. The sustainable concept of the hotel with strong...” - Annonnyymmous
United Kingdom
“Breakfast was good with fresh fruit, The tours arranged were excellent, Muhammed was a great host and you must try the cinnamon and ginger lemon drink and the unique Coffee downstairs you will be hooked.” - Jade
South Africa
“Amazing location with a very special atmosphere. Even more beautiful than the photos. Great views fron the room including the fort and sea. Food (both breakfast and dinner) was delicious, highly recommended. Staff were amazing and service great.” - Maëlys
France
“The house is very well located, making it convenient to get your bearings and experience Lamu’s authentic ambiance. The house in itself is gorgeous and well ventilated, with several resting areas. The room was very spacious and well maintained,...”

Managed by Swedish Christina and Dutch Paul Aarts are owners since 1990.They met here 1975.
Company information
Property information
Neighbourhood information
Languages spoken
German,English,French,Dutch,Norwegian,Swedish,SwahiliProperty surroundings
Restaurants
- Karkadeh
- CuisineLocal
House rules
Child policies
Children of any age are welcome.
Children 13 years and above will be charged as adults at this property.
To see correct prices and occupancy information, please add the number of children in your group and their ages to your search.
Cot and extra bed policies
The number of cots allowed is dependent on the option you choose. Please check your selected option for more information.
There are no extra beds available at this property.
All cots are subject to availability.


The fine print
Please note that the island of Lamu is only accessible by boat. Flights arrive at Lamu Airport on Manda Island and buses arrive at Mokowe.
In order for Subira House to arrange boat transport, please inform them in advance of your flight or bus arrival details. Associated costs must be paid in advance. Contact details are provided in the booking confirmation email.
Lamu Old Town is Kenya's oldest settlement. It is an important site for Islamic activities and celebrations.
Please inform Subira House in advance of your expected arrival time. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly with the contact details provided in your confirmation.
This property will not accommodate hen, stag or similar parties.
Quiet hours are between 21:00:00 and 08:00:00.