http://www.magicalkenya.com/: The Lamu Archipelago is a cluster of seven island sheltered within the northernmost reaches of the Kenyan coast. Warmed by the equatorial sun and cooled by the trade winds of the Indian Ocean, the islands have a balmy, pleasant climate  for most of the year, with an average annual temperature of 26 degrees celsius.

 The three main islands of Lamu, Manda and Pate are a blend of deep blue channels and coral reefs, wide sandy beaches and protected bays. To the north, Kiwaayu is a narrow strip of beach surrounded by reef. The rolling dunes of the beaches give way to thick vegetation and stands of coconut palms, tropical mango and citrus trees, while the low lying areas are covered in dense mangrove forest.

 The nearby mainland Dodori Reserve is a wild remote region populated with herds of Topi and other plains game. Elephants have been know to leave the reserve and swim across the channel to graze on Manda Island.

In Lamu history and modern life are inextricably linked. The community has learned the value of its history and the importance of traditions and customs. The values, beliefs and way of life throughout the islands are all part of a rich culture that grew and expanded with the sprawling stone town at the heart of the archipelago.

This was a civilization born of the trade winds that first brought commerce to these shores two thousand years ago. The first recorded history of Lamu dates from the 15^th century, and the following centuries saw visits by traders and explorers from Turkey, Portugal, China and other great trading nations.

But the most pervasive influences came from the Middle East -  Arab traders settled in the area  from the 9^th century onwards. They called the local people "Swahili" (people of the coast) and the gradual intermarriage of the two communities and their lifestyles created an enduring new culture.

The turbulent history of the Swahili coast saw battles for control of commerce between the Omani Arabs and the Portuguese and regional conflicts between the islands of Lamu, Manda and Pate.

Lamu remained a significant and prosperous trading port until the late 19^th century and in many ways has remained unchanged by modern influence.

For visitors to the region, sailing across the channel from Manda to Lamu is to arrive in the same way centuries of traders, explorers and adventurers first entered this antique town. The sea front throngs with activity - donkeys, porters and merchants bustle around the dhow docks and jetties that surround the gateway to the town's central fort, built by the Omanis in 1808.

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001, the narrow labyrinthine streets of Lamu town are a historical attraction in themselves. Exploring the town on foot is the best way to soak up the living, breathing history of Lamu.

The Lamu Museum has excellent exhibits on Swahili culture in general and Lamu culture in particular and can provide information and advice on visiting other historical sites throughout the archipelago.