Mnarani House, Shela, Lamu
About this villa
An imposing Swahili mansion in one of the best spots in Shela, very close to Peponi Hotel, the seafront and beach, Mnarani House has 4 double ensuite bedrooms, a courtyard swimming pool and is beautifully decorated and furnished in authentic Lamu style. Highlights: One of Shela’s loveliest private holiday homes; Well located, long-established, highly recommended; Courtyard swimming pool, historic Swahili atmosphere; Airy, sea-view roof terraces and balconies; Exceptional, experienced staff and great cooking; Accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite double bedrooms; From Kes 70,000 per night ‘self catering’ with chef and housekeeper in low season.
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
"An absolutely beautiful home with lots of stunning terraces and outdoor spaces. Great for a group of friends or a large family to relax in for a few days. The location is perfect, just behind Peponi Hotel which means it’s super easy to enjoy a sunset cocktail at the bar while the wonderful staff at Mnarani House prepare a delicious dinner. The decor is beautiful, the amenities are great and everything, from arriving at Manda airport to organising meals to booking a massage, was easy. I’ll definitely be back soon."
"This is the most beautiful house any of us had ever seen – we had high expectations because the photos looked so amazing but it was even better in person – and it’s in a perfect location with the most incredible views. Lucas and Raphael couldn’t have been more superb and made us feel like we truly belonged there – they made us the most delicious meals and snacks for sundowners and hooked us up with the best boat captain who took us all over the place. I travel a lot so I rarely think I’ll go back somewhere – but without a doubt I will return to Shela and Mnarani House."
"We enjoyed a week long break at Mnarani House and it was incredible! The house is even more beautiful than the photos and the staff really were outstanding – they did everything they could to make us feel at home and comfortable – from organising boat rides to preparing the world’s best prawns three nights in a row. It was the quiet season in Lamu, and the town was blissfully peaceful. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a beautiful and comfortable home in Shela."
House rules
- • Check-in from 14:00 · Check-out by 11:00
- • 3-night minimum stay
- • Maximum 8 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
Pay nothing today
We confirm availability with the host before any charge — book with no risk.
Verified by Miki — 47 checks
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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