Kinjarling House

Shela, Kenya

Your coastal retreat on Lamu Island

Welcome to Kinjarling House, a hidden gem tucked away in Shela village on Lamu Island. Just a short stroll from the beach, this charming holiday home blends rustic Swahili architecture with modern comforts, offering you an authentic island escape. Step into a serene, coastal retreat designed to make you feel right at home.

About us

Kinjarling House offers four spacious, ensuite bedrooms, each with its own unique view of ocean, sand dunes and tranquil village of Shela. The interiors are minimal and cosy, creating a relaxing space filled with natural light and equatorial views. Enjoy moments of relaxation on our rooftop terrace, complete with a hanging bed and sweeping ocean views – perfect for catching the sunrise or sunset.

Your stay includes a private chef who will craft fresh, locally inspired meals just for you. With amenities like daily housekeeping and fast Wi-Fi, Kinjarling House ensures both comfort and style for a carefree coastal getaway.

Things to do in Shela and Lamu

While staying at Kinjarling House, immerse yourself in the vibrant Swahili culture that surrounds you. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Shela, where traditional Swahili architecture, artisan shops, and local boutiques create a one-of-a-kind experience.

  • Explore the streets of Shela and Lamu

    Discover the rich history of Lamu’s famous Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the narrow, tranquil streets of Shela, where each turn reveals stunning Swahili architecture and the vibrant rhythms of local life.

  • Embark on a sunset dhow cruise

    Set sail on a traditional dhow boat and journey through vast mangrove channels, discover nearby islands, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views. We’re here to help you organise a memorable cruise experience tailored to your adventure.

  • Experience Swahili culture

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant Swahili culture all around you. From intricate traditional crafts to an exquisite local food scene, every moment is a feast for the senses and a journey into Lamu’s rich heritage.

Kind words from our guests

  • Felix, UK

    We stayed at the Kinjarling House for four nights in early January and we had a wonderful time.
    The house is located very close to Shela beach with a view of the water from the rooftop. This was especially nice during the mornings, when the sea was calm and the sun was just coming out. The house is also perfectly located to explore the narrow alleys all around Shela with its great architecture and hidden shops. Great to explore Shela.
    The chef, Justin, and his colleague and housekeeper, Esther, were excellent. The breakfast and dinner they prepared for us daily were very tasty and offered a nice variety - so much great seafood. For activities, Millicent put us in touch with someone for a Lamu town tour, snorkeling, etc.
    Also, Millicent was super responsive, answering all questions usually within a few hours. This really made organizing the details of the trip very easy.
    Thank you for a wonderful stay and I'm sure we'll be back to Lamu at some point.

  • Benedetta, Kenya

    A great spot to stay in Shela. Justin and Esther were so friendly and helpful and Millicent our host made sure that our check in was smooth. The house was exactly as described with a great view of the ocean. We couldn’t have wished for more.

  • Brian, USA

    Millicent was an exceptional host and quickly communicated with support and guidance. We would definitely stay here again in the future.

Book your retreat today

Have questions or ready to book your stay? Please fill out the form below, and we’ll be in touch shortly to help you plan your perfect getaway at Kinjarling House.

Contact us

Inquire about available dates by filling out this form or book via Airbnb.

Email:
info@kinjarlinghouse.com

Phone:
+254 (0) 724 084 045

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