3 Best Sights in Kenya

You enter this delightful museum through a brass-studded door that was imported from Zanzibar. Inside there are archaeological displays showing the Takwa Ruins excavations, some wonderful photos of Lamu taken by a French photographer from 1846 to 1849 (you'll be amazed at how little has changed in Lamu), some intricately carved Lamu headboards and throne chairs, and a library. In the Balcony Room upstairs is a fascinating display of musical instruments including the famed Siwa Horn, which is made of brass and resembles elephant tusks; the Pate Siwa horn, made of ivory, is now in the Nairobi National Museum. Dating from the 17th century, they're reputed to be the oldest surviving musical instruments in sub-Saharan Africa.

Delve into some of Malindi's fascinating history at this museum, which was once the home of a 19th-century trader. It has exhibits on the town's Portuguese legacy and there are some archaeological findings dug up from around the coast. You'll find it on the seafront near the Malindi jetty and the fish market. It has temporary exhibitions and also serves as a visitor information center.

This beautifully restored 18th-century Swahili merchant's house has original period furniture; it's a great depiction of a traditional Swahili house and gives insight into how people lived back then. Notice the traditional beds with woven bases of rope, and the finely carved Kalinda screen in the main room. There's a garden full of flowering tropical shrubs and trees and the original well.