Forodhani House
Know Before You Go
Quick IntelEstimated Cost
Villa rental rates are seasonal; contact management directly for group quotes as individual room bookings are not standard.
Best For
Perfect for families, groups of friends, and travelers seeking an exclusive, high-end, and private coastal retreat.
Access & Logistics
Accessible via boat transfers from Manda Airport; the house is situated on the sandy, pedestrian-only paths of Shela village.
Operating Hours
Open 24/7 for villa guests.
Editor's Review
Forodhani House is a stunning, rustic-chic villa located right on the water's edge in the tranquil village of Shela, Lamu. It offers a lavish, period-drama atmosphere that feels worlds away from the modern bustle. Access is exclusively via boat from Manda Island, and guests should be prepared for the sandy, car-free terrain of Shela, which requires comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring the surrounding village.
For those looking to experience the local culture on a more modest budget, take a short walk to the nearby public Shela Beach for a sunset stroll or visit the local village stalls to sample fresh, authentic Swahili street snacks like mahamri and spiced tea at a fraction of the cost of a private villa chef.
The Cost: Pricing is based on exclusive villa rental rather than per-room rates. Expect premium pricing commensurate with a luxury 5-bedroom private villa, which includes a dedicated chef and staff service. It is best to contact the property directly for seasonal rates and group packages.
The Experience: Staying here feels like living in a private sanctuary. The terrain is sandy and unpaved, consistent with all of Shela, so expect a slow-paced, barefoot luxury experience. The house is designed for relaxation, featuring cozy corners for reading, a clean, hygienic pool, and open-air living spaces that catch the ocean breeze.
What you can get: You get a full-service experience featuring an outstanding private chef, personalized meal planning, movie nights via projector, and bespoke activity arrangements. Highlights include the rooftop panoramic views, direct beach access, and the highly attentive staff who specialize in curating everything from intimate dinners to celebratory parties.
Forodhani House delivers an unmatched, intimate coastal experience. While the logistics of reaching Lamu require a bit of planning, the trade-off is a deeply peaceful, tailor-made stay that remains a cherished memory for almost every guest who visits.
More Details
Explorer Ken's Advice
"Ask for the rooftop terrace at sunset; it offers the most enviable, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean in Shela."
Things to Consider
The pool is intentionally designed to be narrow and decorative rather than a large lap pool for intense swimming.
Feedback
Top Google Reviews
Übermom F
This was a birthday celebration and Forodhani was the main party house. The staff were all so courteous, helpful, happy, and kind. Their energies and vibes were super. Forodhani is a beach house with an intentionally-cultivated rustic feel. You'd feel like you were in a lavish period drama. The chef was outstanding. Meal times, snack times, barbecue, all divine! Then there was this adorable staff member named Felix; he was a real darling. No concept was impossible for them to actualise. There was a projector for movie night, and Bluetooth speaker for dance music, or even yoga. Name it, they made it happen. The pool, though narrow, was clean and hygienic. They turned down our room, sprayed undetectable insecticide, and arranged the mosquito nets every evening. There was a rooftop giving such lovely views. The view out of my bedroom window was enviable. I didn't want to leave!
Bakheeta Al Mansoori
It was a wonderful time we spent in this hotel in terms of location, service, staff and the food served by the chef was very delicious.
Tom Simon
Wonderful house with amazing staff. Already looking forward to coming back
Keith White
Excellent 5 bedroomed villa on water's edge. Great chef and staff. Eight of us spent three nights here.
phoebe ouma
My stay at Forodhani is a memory I've chosen to fondly carry around with me for the rest of my life. I had dreamt, imagined and anticipated of what it would be like to stay in a place I had admired in only pictures. I don't think anything could have prepared me for the wonderful experience that awaited me including the countless pictures I'd saved of this beautiful property. Forodhani for me is beyond a place, it's a feeling of warmth , joy and beauty that nothing can quite describe until you experience it for yourself. Isabelle was so helpful and kind and provided clarity on everything I needed. The airport transfers were well organized and always on time. The activities that followed were always arranged with care. Despite staying alone at the house I never felt awkward or out of place, the staff were excellent at anticipating my needs while giving me room to be myself. Everywhere I turned I was met with beautiful views and you could tell everything about the house was thoughtfully done. Whether I was writing at the desk in my room or simply enjoying a shower , I always enjoyed a beautiful views of the ocean. The meals that Chef Silas prepared were always delicious and my table was always set right next to the pool with a wonderful view of the ocean. It was a nice change of pace in my life to truly slow down , enjoy the wonderful coffee table books in the house and experience such kindness among everyone I encountered. Thank you to the entire team at Forodhani for creating such a wonderful experience for my first time in Lamu. Shela is a place I will always hold in high regard because of you ♡
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