Kizingo
Kizingo is the ultimate ‘switch off’ coastal retreat, located on the island of Lamu just 30 minutes by boat from the airstrip. The lodge, which is owned and run by Mary Jo and Louis Van Aardt, is situated at one end of a spectacular 12-kilometre beach that stretches from Kizingo to Shela village. Children of all ages are welcome.
Accommodation & Facilities
Kizingo has eight beautifully appointed bandas (thatched cottages) right on the beach set well apart from each other. The family banda sleeps two adults and up to three children and is set back from the beach. Each spacious banda has beautiful high pitched thatched roofs, shaded balconies with comfortable chairs and swing beds to while away the afternoon watching the unrivalled sea views. In the early morning you can enjoy tea in bed and watch fishing dhows tack south to Malindi. You can be as private or as social as you wish, opting to dine alone on the balcony of your banda or join other guests in the bar and the dining room.
Eating & Sleeping
Children can have separate mealtimes and the chefs are happy to prepare children’s favourites such as fish and chips, vegetables and rice, pasta etc. on request. A listening service is offered whereby a member of staff will sit outside the banda while the children are sleeping and can alert parents if a child wakes up. There is also a child minder from the local village available on request at a rate of approx. 800Ksh per day.
Activities
Guests can swim in the calm waters of the Lamu channel; snorkel amongst the many reefs close by and during the winter months there is also the chance to swim with dolphins. Other activities include exploring historic Lamu town and cycle rides to friendly African villages on the mainland. During the months of October to June it is possible to see green turtles come to the beach to lay their eggs. Kizingo can arrange fishing and sunset dhow trips.
Specifically for children …
The beach is wide and safe and many hours can be spent beachcombing and chasing myriad crabs. The water is warm and shallow. There are buckets and spades available to borrow and face masks and snorkels, although it is recommended that smaller children bring their own to ensure a comfortable fit.
