Jua House

I had a wonderful stay at Jua House. I went on my own for a long weekend and it was a great choice. Breakfast and evening tea are delicious and served on the roof terrace so are a great chance to meet other travellers. The decor is beautiful and the rooms very comfortable. There are thoughtful touches everywhere - the towels are Waffle towels from South Africa and so good I’m going to buy some for myself! Shela felt completely safe even getting lost around the maze of streets at night. Nearly every local will proactively help you find your way by asking if you are lost and then giving you directions or showing you the way.

Had such a lovely stay at Jua House! Amani and the rest of the guys were so hospitable and friendly. The breakfast was really really good, and the views were amazing. I have only good things to say about our stay here, and highly recommend the place ＜3

Staying here felt like we were guests, friends of friends, sent to stay with some people on the edge of town, a short walk from the beaches of Lamu. Amani greeted us with refreshing tamarind juice, and gave us a welcoming and thorough lay of the land. We’d arrived just in time for afternoon tea with some fresh baked cooking, which we took on the roof with our fellow guests. Breakfast was served there family style the next morning as well. There’s plenty of art to take in. Books to borrow if you’re lucky to be there for long enough, great towels, and a comfy bed with lovely shower goodies. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m on Lamu. Thank you!

What a lovely spot! Jua House is a beautiful restored townhome/b&b. Rooms are comfortable and the communal areas are lovely. The real highlight is that Jua House has a bakery on-site with fresh bread and baked goods day and night. Food is excellent so don’t skip breakfast. Would also recommend ordering in Swahili dinner one night. The team here is top notch. Very friendly and helpful. I’d recommend a sunset cruise with Cosmo and Tido- fantastic boat captains and very friendly. Great location in Shela- just a short walk to beaches, restaurants, shopping, etc.

Indeed, it is a great choice for first-time visitors to Lamu as well as seasoned travellers. Everything from the actual accommodations with their eclectic cool furnishings to the lovely breakfasts and afternoon teas (that many others before us have rated quite highly) was great. The owner was extremely pleasant and quite helpful. Special mention to Amani and all the staff at the house who are always on call and provide excellent recommendations for meals and excursions (Cosmo and his boat are a must!) among others. We felt very well taken care of. We will definitely be back. We normally don't give five-star ratings, but this is very well deserved. The seafront restaurant isn't featured here, but we also highly recommend Baharini for its fresh seafood, pizzas, and obligatory after-meal gelatos 😀

We loved Jua House. The place is located in Shela and is great for first time visitors in Lamu. They helped us with our bags from the boat and after that we were easily able to find our way back when out and about. The rooms were comfortable and we loved the design of the hotel (there is no AC, so be prepared). Amani and Chai were so helpful they took great care of us! Captain Cosmo was also great. The hotel arranged for him to pick us up from the airport and he got us around while we were in town. They also provided great recommendations for things to do and set up tours for us. I can’t wait to go back and spend more time there!