Mama Daktari House, Shela

A charming and architecturally-appealing place to stay which enjoys far-reaching views from upper terraces and seafront gardens, Mama Daktari House has two double bedrooms and is often rented with the adjoining Betty’s Suite – together the two properties can accommodate 6 guests.

“The Moon Houses are in one of the best locations in Shela. The decor, the ambience and the views of the ocean are all great. The kitchen staff are very nice and will make an array of sea food dishes tailored just to your liking. The on-site manager is extremely helpful and knowledgeable.”

Daniel, Tanzania

Mama Daktari is one of The Moon Houses – a collection of neighbouring and interconnecting houses set just back from the seafront in Shela Village. Each of the houses can be rented individually – or together with one or more of the adjoining properties – providing flexible and adaptable accommodation for from 2 up to 22 guests.

Historic and charming, furnished with local antiques and built in traditional Swahili style, the houses come complete with excellent chefs and housekeepers. The houses are rented on a ‘self-catering’ basis – guests can choose from a guideline menu and the house staff will shop and prepare and serve meals as required, buying ingredients and provisions for guests ‘at cost’.

The houses also come with the services of a professional on-site manager who can help organise local activities and excursions. Rentals also include return airport transfers on the Moon Houses’ own private motor boat, along with complimentary laundry services and wi-fi internet.

Rentals of The Moon Houses help support the Safari Doctors project www.safaridoctors.org. Safari Doctors is currently the only organization providing regular medical care to remote areas of the Lamu District. Safari Doctors runs a monthly mobile which travels up the coast north of Lamu by dhow – reaching distant communities in need of health services.

“Our stay at the charming Moon Houses was extremely memorable. They are the best option in Shela with a fantastic location and service. The food was delicious, inventive and used local ingredients. The property manager also organized a yoga class for us which was highly appreciated.”

SC, Washington DC

Summary

A really charming, traditional and relaxing house
Outstanding views across the channel and village
Roof terraces and extensive gardens
Accommodates 4 guests in 2 double ensuite bedrooms
Can be rented in conjunction with one or more of the neighbouring Moon Houses
Rentals from $400 per night

Detailed Information

2 double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms
Open and covered upstairs terraces and lounging areas
Ground floor living and dining rooms
Access to large sea-view gardens
Private chef and housekeepers
On-site manager
Return airport transfers by private boat
Laundry service
Wifi internet

Location

Mama Daktari sits less than 50 metres from the seafront in Shela Village, close to the eastern tip of Lamu Island. The island’s main beach is just a minute or two away from the house, as are Peponi Hotel and the other attractions of the village. Lamu Town is two miles north of Shela, and Manda Island and its airport are just a short boat ride away.

Visitor’s Book

Rates

Standard rental rate per night (March to June, September to December) $380 per night
High season rental rate (January and February) $430 per night
Christmas and New Year – $530 per night

Rentals are on a ‘self catering’ basis including the services of chef and house staff

Rentals include return airport transfers, laundry and wi-fi

These rates are for East African residents – please contact us for ‘non resident’ rates