FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the best time to visit Manda?
Check our ‘Seasons’ section on the Information page.
2. How can we get to you?
Commercial Airlines: Fly into Lamu from Nairobi, Mombasa, or Malindi with Safarilink, Fly 540, Skyward Express, or EastAfrican.
Private Charters: Land directly at Manda Bay's private airstrip, just a short drive from the lodge.
Whether you arrive commercial or private, we will meet and transport you to the lodge.
Upon arrival:
From Lamu Manda Airport, enjoy a scenic 30-minute boat transfer to the lodge.
From our private airstrip, a brief 3-minute car ride brings you directly to the lodge.
Need transport assistance? Contact us at: bookings@mandabay.com/+254 716 579 999 |0735 579 999
3. What time is check in / Check out?
Check in : 12:00 noon
Check out: 10:00 am
4. What happens if our flights arrive before check-in or after check-out time?
If your flight arrives before check-in or departs after check-out, feel free to utilise our facilities until your room is ready or departure time.
5. Do you have air conditioning in the rooms?
No, our rooms do not have air conditioning. They feature open-air windows with curtains for privacy and overhead fans within the mosquito net.
6. Can we charge phones and cameras and what power supply do you have?
Yes, all rooms have power points with square 3-pin sockets (220-240 volts). We recommend bringing converters and universal plug adaptors.
7. Can we have our children with us in the room?
Yes, we offer two family-sized rooms (room 11 and room 7). Extra beds can be added to standard rooms if these rooms are fully booked during your stay.
8. Do you have a 1/2 board Rate?
No, we do not offer a half-board rate.
9. Do you have Malaria?
Malaria is endemic on the Kenyan coast year-round, though the risk in our remote location is very low. With prophylactics and insect repellents, chances of catching malaria are minimal.
10. Do you have mobile signal and wifi?
Mobile phone service is good however, better in the bar and dining area. WiFi is available throughout the lodge but not high speed.
11. Do you have an ‘A la Carte’ menu?
No, we offer:
Breakfast: Self-service buffet with options for a cooked English breakfast.
Lunch: Fresh organic dishes including fish, seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.
Dinner: A 3-course menu served outdoors under the stars in fine weather.
Special dietary requests accommodated with prior notice.
12. Can we invite friends/guests for lunch?
For Hotel Guests: Yes, with prior booking through the lodge manager, subject to availability.
For outside visitors: To book a meal at Manda Bay, please call the lodge manager: +254 (0) 11 2879128.
The cost is $50/ Ksh 5,000 per person. All drinks are purchased from the bar and are not included in the meal price.
13. Where is your closest medical facility?
We have first aid medical equipment at the lodge and there is a small local hospital in Lamu. For emergencies, air evacuation to a Nairobi hospital can be arranged. Travel/medical insurance is recommended for all guests.
14. What are VISA and COVID entry requirements for Kenya?
A single entry tourist eTA must be obtained online. You do not need a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination to enter Kenya. Please see entry requirement links below.