Mokowe: Market and Jetty

Mokowe has two distinct points of reference: its Monday market and the Mokowe Jetty, a regular market day and important infrastructure for transport and trade. The jetty also serves as a gateway to the mainland and Lamu Island. This makes getting around Mokowe different from the cultural, festival and nature-related attractions associated with the wider destination of Lamu.

Market and Jetty in Mokowe

The market in Mokowe is open on Mondays from 8:00 to 18:30. If you are planning a visit to the market, this gives you a specific day of the week and time window to keep in mind. Check the market hours locally before relying on specific details about the market. This local point of reference can then be factored into your plans.

The new Mokowe Jetty was completed and handed over on 10 July 2024. In January 2025, it was described as fully operational and supporting maritime activities in Lamu County as well as tourism. The completion and handover date falls in July 2024; the description of its operating status refers to January 2025. Its role in transport and trade adds another important point of reference for Mokowe alongside the market day.

Culture, Festivals and Nature in the Wider Destination of Lamu

The Lamu Museum in Lamu Old Town on Lamu Island displays objects from Swahili cultural heritage. The collection includes clothing, jewellery and furniture, as well as manuscripts, amulets and musical instruments; it also features maritime objects and materials relating to dhows. Cars are not allowed in Lamu Old Town. People get around on foot, by donkey or by boat.

Siyu Fort is also part of the wider destination of Lamu. It was built from coral stone, lime mortar and mangrove wood, and showcases traditional Swahili building techniques.

The annual Lamu Cultural Festival features traditional dances and performances, dhow, swimming and canoe races, as well as tastings of local food. Event dates may vary. The Maulidi festival is also celebrated in Lamu every year; its date follows the Muslim calendar. If you want to plan your trip around a festival, check the relevant dates in advance.

The wider destination of Lamu includes two protected areas in Lamu County: Kiunga Marine National Reserve and Dodori National Reserve. Snorkelling and deep-sea diving are listed as tourist activities in Lamu County; specific options depend on local operators and conditions.

Choosing the Right Place for Your Holiday Rental

When choosing a holiday rental, ask yourself one clear question: Do you want to focus on Mokowe for its Monday market and jetty, or are you more interested in the cultural attractions, festival traditions and nature of the wider destination of Lamu? First decide which place suits your travel interests, then tailor your holiday rental search accordingly.

Discover more destinations: Kikowani, Lamu, Gazi, Shanzu, Lolgorien, Ol Tukai, Archers Post, Utange.

See the overview of destinations: Kenya.