Reviews from guests who stayed at this hotel, shared by our hotel supplier. Score based on the latest 125 reviews.
Jasmin
Kenya · Family · October 2026
+We were regular visitors at Kijani house from 2007 to 2010 but hesitated going back due to change in mgmt. But we were so pleasantly surprised. We stayed in the King suite which even without aircon was very comfortable and breezy with beautiful views. The restaurant is also beautiful and the food is delicious. The pool is not very big but was never crowded. Everything was perfect. We had a lovely stay.
Mark
Spain · Couple · October 2026
“A nice hotel by the sea near Lamu”
+A great hotel for a quiet holiday! We loved the hotel and the staff! The room that we were assigned was very nice and overlooked the water. Staff took good care of us from the moment we arrived at the airport in Manda to the return trip after our holiday. We chose the hotel as it was close to Lamu so that we could visit and learn some of the history. The food was great, from breakfast to dinner! We chose not to eat anywhere else as we were happy with the quality and service. The room had a nice sitting area, two ceiling fans, A/C and also mosquito nets. (Not really needed as so few but nice to have.) The pool was a nice place to relax and have a beer after a walk or a swim in the sea down the beach. Again, staff attentive and offered refreshments. The hotel arranged a beautiful sunset cruise with Capt. Babu on Matlai and we enjoyed it immensely. The hotel also helped arrange our walking tour of Lamu with Mohammed which helped us to see Lamu and enjoy his guidance. Best part of the stay was getting to meet Pole Pole, the hotel cat and to spend time with him poolside!
−A bit more speed in morning for coffees and juice. Otherwise, all was incredible and everyone super helpful and friendly!
Karina
Australia · Couple · October 2026
“Best choice in Shela - charming traditional style, superb staff, waterfront views.”
+We loved the friendly ambiance, exceptional staff service, huge bedroom with balcony, traditional architectural style, charming communal spaces, waterfront views, and excellent restaurant
−Really, all is good for mid-priced hotel. Continuous attention to refurbishment, and extra focus on flow of food services are tiny mentions.
Dominika
Sweden · Couple · October 2026
“Truly a paradise”
+Kijani hotel is located magically by the beach, every detail is thought through and there is always a smiling member of staff ready to help. Every evening we got help with mosquito net, rooms had AC and beds were very comfortable! I loved the pool too! We only stayed for 2 nights but already planning to come back! Oh and the restaurant offers great food!
Natalie
United Kingdom · Couple · August 2026
“Amazing stay, relaxing and quiet. Peaceful and beautiful surroundings.”
+Beautiful property, gardens and rooms well kept. Stunning food very friendly staff. I loved everything about it
−Nothing
Francine
Italy · Solo · August 2026
“Strongly recommend for a relaxing stay”
+Welcoming, restaurant, everything is so well treated, guests included
−Actually was just a lack of lucky, big groups in the restaurant which slows the service and availability of choices.
Marketa
United Kingdom · Family · July 2026
“Unique and beautiful place to stay”
+This is an absolutely amazing hotel, fabulous location, attentive staff, oasis of peace, great pool and tortoises roaming the grounds - heaven for our 5 year old. This was our 5th time there and can’t wait to go back again. Thank you.
−Everything was great.
Neelam
Kenya · Solo · July 2026
“Overall great stay. Most of the staff was very courteous and polite. Disappointed about the theft.”
+The Swahili interior design is very well done. Beautiful details.
−Someone on the staff stole $60 USD that was in the room safe. The safe was locked as was the door.
Nick
United Kingdom · Family · March 2026
+We recently had the privilege of spending 4 glorious nights at Kijani Hotel, Shela in Lamu. Everything from the greeting at Manda airport by Boniface, boat crossing to the island, welcome at the hotel, breakfasts served by Sifa, lunches, dinners and our beautiful room felt like we were in paradise. Our tour of Lamu old town courtesy of Mohamed and dhow sunset boat trip with Henry added to our visit. This really is a piece of heaven and we can not praise Kijani hotel enough. We will without a doubt be returning sometime soon.
−N/A
fiona
United Kingdom · Couple · March 2026
“Relaxing, comfortable a real authentic experience . Everyone at Kijani were so lovely and helped us do all the things we”
+Location and staff were excellent, friendly and incredibly helpful.
−All good