Forodhani House, Shela Village, Lamu
About this villa
A spectacular 5-bedroom house in one of the best positions on the island, Forodhani sits close to Peponi Hotel at the very start of the island’s wonderful 8-mile beach. Stylish, sought-after and with wonderful sea views, it is one of the loveliest places to stay on the Kenyan coast. Highlights: An iconic private holiday home in a stunning waterfront location; Set on the very eastern tip of the island with panoramic views across the Lamu channel; Designed and built in airy and modern Swahili style; 9 metre (30ft) elevated freshwater swimming pool; Direct access to Shela beach and less than 100 metres from Peponi Hotel; Seafront terrace and verandas and balconies with seating areas on all floors; Five friendly full-time staff – including gourmet chef.
What this place offers
- Wi-Fi
- Pool
- Air conditioning
- Daily housekeeping
- Chef on request
- Secure parking
- Beach access
- Garden
- Hot water
- Kitchen
Where you'll be
Lamu, Kenya
Exact address shared after booking.
Guest reviews
"One of the best houses in one of the most magical places in the world – Lamu island is like nowhere else on earth and Forodhani is without doubt one of the most amazing houses there. Metres from the ocean, with amazing sea views in two directions, you are right above the pier in Shela. The dhows sail past so close to the terrace it feels that your should be able to reach out and touch them. The staff are incredibly friendly and the chef is among the best in Shela – the house is also one of the few in Shela which boasts a pool."
"This perfectly-situated house is not only idyllic but comes with excellent staff, fantastic contacts for all the fun things to do in Lamu and has the most amazing corners for everyone staying to relax in. Thank you to you all for our perfect stay – and for those yet to book Forodhani House – don’t hesitate!!"
"I cannot recommend Forodhani House enough. I wish it could remain my private secret hideaway, but this would be incredibly selfish and so I can but only recommend and urge my fellow travelers and those looking for somewhere idyllic to stay in Lamu to visit Forodhani House and experience sublime bliss.!"
House rules
- • Check-in from 14:00 · Check-out by 11:00
- • 3-night minimum stay
- • Maximum 10 guests
- • No parties or events · No smoking indoors
Make it special
Concierge experiences you can add during checkout.
Private chef
A dedicated chef cooks breakfast, lunch and dinner in your villa — Swahili-coast seafood, grills and fresh produce, tailored to your table.
$120 per night
Dhow sunset cruise
A traditional dhow charter at golden hour with drinks and canapés — the classic coast send-off, arranged for your group.
$180 per group
In-villa massage
A therapist comes to you for a 60-minute massage on your terrace or by the pool.
$55 per person
Airport transfer
Private return transfer between the airstrip and your villa in an air-conditioned vehicle.
$90 per group
Book with confidence
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We confirm availability with the host before any charge — book with no risk.
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Every home is personally inspected and photographed before it’s listed.
Guest guarantee
If a villa is materially not as listed on arrival, we rehome you within 12 hours or refund.
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