Hundreds of tourists flock to Lamu as 10th yoga festival kicks off

Hundreds of tourists are trooping to the Lamu archipelago as the 10th edition of the Lamu Yoga Festival kicks off. The five-day event runs up to Sunday this week.

The key venues of the event are Shela, Lamu town and Manda Island.

About 400 yoga enthusiasts from across the globe are expected to attend this year's event.

The theme of the 2024 Lamu Yoga Festival is ‘I love Lamu Yoga Festival.’

Established in 2014, Lamu yoga is among the events featured on the county’s annual calendar of events that brand Lamu as an 'Island of festivals'.

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility, and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing.

The main components of yoga are postures (a series of movements designed to increase strength and flexibility) and breathing. The practice originated in India about 5,000 years ago.

Speaking to The Eastleigh Voice, the Lamu Yoga Festival founder Monika Fauth welcomed guests and tourists to the archipelago, adding that the event provides revellers the platform to experience the rich cultural heritage of Lamu Island through vibrant performances, exhibitions, and workshops.

She said participants and spectators will enjoy traditional music, dance, and drumming showcases.

"This year's Lamu Yoga has commenced and it will run until Sunday, November 3. We are welcoming Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) who have finally recognised the importance of Kenya as the premier wellbeing destination of Africa," said Fauth.

She said participants from various parts of Kenya and other countries including Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Botswana will be taking part in this year's Lamu yoga festival.

Yoga enthusiasts from other continents such as Europe, America, Asia, Dubai, India and Australia are also expected to attend.

The 10th edition of the Lamu Yoga Festival will be running until Sunday, November 3,2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

Experienced yoga instructors

"We have over 30 experienced teachers and instructors who will take the participants through different yoga styles and enhance your practice. You'll be engaged in guided meditation sessions to cultivate inner peace and mindfulness. We welcome you all," said Fauth.

Participants in this year's Lamu Yoga Festival are also expected to register for special yoga classes such as SUP Trapeze Yoga, Sensory Night, Dhow Meditation and Swim, Sound Healing, and Paddleboard Safari, among others.

Also, the delicious Swahili cuisine is part of the reason that Lamu is known as Kenya's top health and wellness destination.

“Here, we eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, and seafood, and so, as a yoga participant, you'll enjoy that," said Fauth.

This year's Lamu Yoga Festival has also taken into account the fact that mental health has become a matter of concern for everyone in today's world. As such, yoga revellers will be offered an assortment of therapies, facilitated by some of the best therapists available on Lamu Island.

Wellness destination

Lamu County Tourism, Trade, Culture and Investment Executive Aisha Miraj termed Lamu yoga as one of the festivals that are highly recognised and puts the Lamu archipelago in the wellness destination, particularly due to the fresh air and beautiful and attractive environment for fun seekers.

Miraj said the celebration of Lamu Yyoga is crucial as it will help boost the tourist numbers visiting the archipelago even as the high tourist season gears on.

"As we mark this year's Lamu Yoga Festival, let's have this in mind that Lamu is a peaceful place, attract and cool for those visiting this place. Let's enjoy the beautiful and clean beaches here. We welcome all," said Miraj.

The Lamu archipelago is known for its rich history due to the fact that it houses the unique Lamu Old Town that acts as a key tourist hub for the region.

in 2001, UNESCO listed Lamu Old Town as a World Heritage site owing to its well-preserved culture and heritage spanning decades.

It is arguably the most unique and beautiful Swahili town in Kenya and in East Africa that has remained habitual for over 700 years now.