Things To Do
in Ramu
Ramu sits on Kenya's northern Swahili coast, where palm-fringed beaches meet turquoise waters. Its working harbor hums with dhows as markets come to life with fish, spices, and crafts. The town blends Swahili architecture, coastal cuisine, and a welcoming, tropical vibe that fits easy weekend escapes.
With access to nearby islands and nature reserves, Ramu offers culture, sea, and scenery in a compact, friendly setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Ramu Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and sounds of local vendors. Engage with friendly traders as you browse fresh produce, handmade crafts, and spices unique to the region. Don't forget to sample some local breakfast delicacies, such as mandazi or chapati, to fuel your day ahead.
After exploring the market, take a leisurely stroll through the town, visiting local artisans and their workshops. Discover the rich history of Ramu by stopping at the nearby cultural center, where you can learn about the traditions and customs of the local community. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, trying out some authentic Kenyan dishes.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood from the Indian Ocean. Savor the flavors of Ramu while socializing with locals and fellow travelers, soaking in the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the nearby shoreline, watching the stars twinkle over the ocean.
Visit the Ramu Heritage Centre for an engaging morning that delves into the history and traditions of the local communities. Participate in a workshop where you can learn traditional crafts, such as bead-making or basket weaving, guided by skilled artisans. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the local culture and its artistic expressions.
Attend a traditional dance performance at the centre, where local dancers showcase their vibrant costumes and energetic moves. Enjoy a lunch featuring dishes from different Kenyan ethnic groups, providing a culinary journey through the country’s diverse flavors. Afterward, take some time to interact with the performers and learn about the significance of the dances.
As evening falls, participate in a cultural exchange session where you can share stories with locals and learn about their daily lives. This intimate setting allows for meaningful connections and deeper understanding of the Ramu community. Wind down your evening with a traditional tea ceremony, savoring the rich flavors of Kenyan tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥤Fresh fruit juice or coconut drink | $0.50-2 |
| 🚕Local transport (matatu/tuk-tuk) | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
| 🐟Fresh seafood dish | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal culture and cuisine
- Relaxed pace and scenic coastlines
- Easy access to nearby islands and reserves
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Seasonal weather can affect travel plans
- Smaller healthcare facilities requiring trips to bigger towns for serious care
- "Habari yako?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ndiyo" - Yes
- "Hapana" - No
Places to Visit in Ramu
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic harborfront with colorful dhows, textured stone walls, and lively market activity at dawn.
Golden light reflecting off wooden dhows as the sea turns glassy in the evening.
Raised walkway through mangrove channels—great for reflections, birds, and quiet portraits.
Wide sandy stretches and azure water, perfect for wide-angle ocean shots and silhouettes.
Food in Ramu
Ramu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, spiced rice dish usually cooked with meat or fish; best enjoyed with a squeeze of lime at coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Fish cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, commonly served with rice or ugali and a wedge of lime.
Pigeon peas simmered with coconut milk, often served with coconut rice or chapati.
Light, savory rice-flour fritters popular as snacks or a breakfast bite from street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively harbor market where the morning catch is sold alongside fresh produce, fragrant spices, and tropical fruits.
A bustling lane market offering street snacks, roasted corn, samosas, and coconut drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in markets and religious sites; lightweight fabrics help in the heat.
Greet locals with 'Jambo' or 'Habari' and a smile; use respectful titles when addressing elders.
Use the right hand for exchanges and meals; the left hand is considered less polite in some contexts.
Always request permission before taking portraits of individuals or families.
Safety
Tipping in Ramu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, leave around 5–10% if service isn’t included; guides and boat crews often appreciate small tips.
Cash in Kenyan shillings is widely accepted; mobile money (M-Pesa) is ubiquitous for small purchases; cards are increasingly accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Lots of sun and pleasant sea breezes; ideal for outdoor activities, island hops, and beach time. Evenings are cooler, so a light jacket is handy.
Frequent showers and high humidity; lush green landscapes and dramatic skies make for dramatic photography, but travel can be slower.
Intermittent showers with plenty of sunshine between rains; sea often calms after rain, good for snorkeling and boat trips.
Warmest period with bright sun; great for swimming and sunbathing, but stay hydrated and protect against heat.
Ramu at Night
Hiking in Ramu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills offering viewpoints and hiking trails about a day trip from the coast.
Coastal walk along cliffs and mangroves with opportunities to spot dolphins and diverse birdlife.
Coastal trails around the marine reserve with reef views and shoreline scenery.
Airports
How to reach Ramu by plane.
Small domestic airport on Lamu Island with flights from Nairobi and Mombasa; transfer to Ramu by boat or road.
Major international hub near the coast; connects to domestic routes to Lamu, Malindi, and Nairobi.
Regional airport with connections to Nairobi and Mombasa; convenient for southern coastal access.
Kenya's main international gateway; many international flights and onward connections to coastal airstrips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group along the coast, speaking Swahili and influenced by Islam and Indian Ocean trade traditions.
Island communities near Lamu known for boat-building and distinctive crafts.
Smaller presence in markets and ports, contributing to trade and cultural exchange.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in town pitches and on the beach; local leagues and informal matches are common.
Coastal sailing culture with occasional regattas; boats are a familiar sight along the shore.
Popular water activities at beaches and near reefs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ramu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared vegetarian with vegetables, legumes, and coconut-based sauces. Look for mboga (greens) and lentil stews, and ask for no fish or meat where needed.