Jua House

Our 4 day stay at Jua House was perfect for our first visit to Lamu. The house itself is beautiful, the roof top roof room where we stayed has a balcony which is the perfect sunset spot. Armani and his team are incredibly caring and ensure you are well looked after, taking to you to places around Shela until orientated. The breakfasts are delicious, fresh and generous. I would definitely recommend staying here.

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.

We have been to Shela a few times and this is definitely our favourite place. If they have space, book it and if you can stay in the balcony room at the top it’s a must. The outdoor shower is joyous. Jua house is perched above Shela with 360 views and glorious light & wind pouring in. The house is beautifully decorated, adorned with modern art and elegant furniture, it is super special. Thomas & Olivia and their Team are wonderful to be around, full of knowledge, thrilling stories and fantastic energy. I can’t wait to come back, we’re still dreaming of our delicious daily breakfast looking out across the mangroves and sand dunes the other way. The best place in Shela. Ed & Emilie x

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!

If you need a retreat that's peaceful and beautiful, look no further. This amazing guest house has spectacular views of the island, is a short walk to the port and beach, and the staff is exceptionally accomodating! Breakfast and afternoon coffee/tea was always delicious. Reading on the rooftop or lounging in the common rooms to chat and fellowship with other guests was a highlight. The staff were also able to arrange little excursions and made sure to walk you through the twisted allies if you needed a guide. The smell of fresh baked bread was an added bonus as it's baked on site!!! I will always have the fondest of memories from my short stay at Jua House.

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 😀