Matondoni Village: The Living Dhow-Building Capital of Lamu
On the southwestern shore of Lamu Island sits Matondoni, a peaceful fishing hamlet celebrated worldwide as the last surviving center for authentic hand-built wooden dhows.
Witnessing Master Craftsmen at Work
Dhow builders (fundis) use ancient hand tools—adze axes, hand drills, and mallets—shaping hardwood mahogany and mangrove timbers without blueprints or electric machinery.
Traditional Palm Weaving & Rope Making
Village women weave durable coastal mats (mikeka), hats, and baskets from dried doum palm leaves (kawa), while local fishermen hand-knot natural fiber fishing nets.
How to Visit Matondoni
Matondoni is reached via a scenic 45-minute boat ride through narrow mangrove channels from Lamu Town. It is included in our full-day cultural package.