Manda Bay Lodge Top Lamu Accommodation|Small Romantic Boutique Lodge | Idyllic Island

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The words small romantic boutique lodge, and top Lamu Accommodation can only mean one thing and that is Kenya and the Indian Ocean at its very best.

You may never have heard of Manda Bay Lodge and this article will hopefully change that. Perhaps you are planning a Kenya honeymoon or an escape with your sweetheart, then Manda Bay Lodge could be right for you.

Where is Manda Bay

It is to be found on the north west corner of the idyllic unspoiled Manda Island which is part of the lamu Archipelago 

How do I get to Manda Bay Lodge

Firstly to get to Lamu you can fly directly from Nairobi, or from Mombasa or Malindi. You will be met at the airport and transported to Manda Bay by private speedboat. 

Having said that if you have the money then Manda Bay has its own private airfield, and because of the position and exclusivity of the lodge it has its share of celebrities who achieve the anonymity they desire here.

Two very important things to take note of. Don't let anyone convince you to drive or go by bus because it is far too dangerous. Secondly if you don't like small planes then you will find this part of the journey uncomfortable.

What is the Accommodation Like at Manda Bay Lodge.

There are sixteen thatched cottages, of which eleven are on the beach. This sounds like basic African accommodation when in fact it may look rustic from the outside, but it is in fact luxurious by African standards inside. In fact this is barefoot luxury by any standards

The beds importantly are very comfortable, the bathrooms are large, the room is cool with overhead fans and sea breezes. In fact beachfront means beachfront, and there is a huge veranda with hammocks and loungers.

You will go to sleep romantically cocooned in your mosquito nets, which are attractive in their own right, and waken up to the sound of the Indian Ocean  on your own very private beach.  

What is the food like at Manda Bay

Consistent and delicious which for a set menu is unusual to say the least. If you love fresh fish, and tropical fruit you can't go far wrong, but the chefs will cook to order for you.
Different dinner locations are a speciality at Manda Bay, and you can go off into the bush for a romantic oil lamp dinner, or join other guests for a candlelit beachfront dinner.

It's not just the main meals at Manda, it's the little things like cookies with coffee in the morning.  It is king crab and oysters in a bowl at lunchtime. In fact you will need to be careful because the helpings are huge, and so will you if you eat everything, and you will be tempted!!

How well are you looked after at Manda Bay Lamu

Quite superbly by polite smiling and helpful staff. Another description might well be friendly warm and charming. Manda Bay Lodge owners, the Roberts and the Dyers have trained their staff extremely well. In fact they make you feel as if you are like old friends and not guests. 

What is there to do on this lovely corner of the Lamu Archipelago

Manda Bay has something pretty well for everyone, but it is especially good for a relaxing and romantic time at the end of a Kenya Honeymoon Safari.

So what do you want to do anyway, because Manda Bay is the perfect place to relax. If you love sunshine blue sky and the beach, then you will be in paradise.  Having said that the owners will be on hand to help you plan your day

You can take sunset Dhow trips, evening walks to go stargazing in the enormous sky where the stars seem close enough to touch. If you enjoy bird watching then the Lamu Archipelago is a great place to do that especially right behind the Lama Bay hotel. Of course fishing is another wonderful option. 

 How much will it cost

This is not an expensive place to stay and you need to check out the following options

How to beat your travel agent's holiday quotes which will show you exactly how to organise the best deal at the Manda Bay

AND

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Manda Bay at TripAdvisor

Will I like Manda Bay

If you want to just relax and chill you will have a fabulous time. However if this is to be your first experience in Africa, then you need to realise that five star may not be the level you are used to. Having said that the service here is very personal, and it is very comfortable, the food is fantastic and the position of the bandas on the beach is stunning

Conclusion

Manda Bay Lamu is so well loved that a letter addressed to Manda Bay Africa arrived safely if a little late. That says a lot.