x

Where every detail feels deliberate

Zahir House offers an experience that blends boutique hospitality with the warmth of home.

You’ll find everything you need to live fully and relax deeply, with just the right touch of luxury.

Private Chef – Thoughtful, Flavorful, Flexible

Our Chef prepares each meal based on your preferences. From market-fresh seafood to kid-friendly dishes and elegant rooftop dinners, he’s here to nourish you, body and soul.

  • Menu planning before or on arrival
  • Dietary needs respected
  • Meals are served in the open dining area on the 3rd floor.
  • Ingredients purchased fresh daily (you reimburse only the costs).
  • Preparing and serving your wished-for breakfast and other meals of the day by our international cook, but great with local flair;
  • Crafted Sundowners with local bites, as per your wish, as you gaze on a magical sunset over the renowned Shela dunes and memorable evening light views of Lamu Archipelago.

Layna shared: “Chef Patrick prepared an amazing dinner and dessert for us… highly recommend staying here!”

Ask us for a sample menu →

Housekeeping – Clean, Calm, and Unobtrusive

Our two-room stewards ensure your living space is ready for your use, including the pool and other lounging areas scattered across all floors.

Kerstin praised: “The service… was impeccable. Every detail was cared for.”

Daily housekeeping includes:

  • Linen and towels are changed every third day, unless otherwise requested (we are sensitive about scarce fresh water resources in the island and care about environmental protection);
  • Hand and machine washing of guest laundry on request.

Airport Transfers – Your Arrival, Simplified

Included in every stay: return boat transfer from Lamu/Manda Airstrip. You’ll be met at the jetty, guided through the village, and escorted to the house with luggage help.

Mindy’s family wrote: “We were taken care of during our stay, including travel to/from the house… amazing meals.”

Plunge Pool – Refresh Without Leaving Home

Tucked into the ground floor, our plunge pool is your built-in sanctuary after a hot beach stroll or a dreamy nap.

Remy from New Jersey said:  “The plunge pool was a game-changer during the days.”

  • Shaded, discreet, family-safe
  • Surrounded by lounging beds
  • Great for cooling off or lazy conversations

Rooftop & Lounge – Where Time Slows Down

The third-floor lounge and rooftop offer stunning views, breezy seating, and a perfect place to dine, unwind, or toast the day.

Jane from Nairobi called it: “One of the tallest in Shela… awesome for drinks overlooking the water.”

Includes:

  • Ocean + dune views
  • Daybeds and reading nooks

Activities – Your Adventures, Arranged

Want more than relaxation? We will help you explore every edge of the island.  Organizing, at your request, your daily activities outside the house, including: sundowner dhow sailing; boat trips, or visits to the historic Lamu town, now one of the world’s heritage sites under UNESCO protection.

Top picks:

  • Dhow sailing + seafood BBQ
  • Snorkeling & dolphin spotting
  • Massage & yoga (at home or nearby)
  • Guided tours of Shela or Lamu
  • Water sports: Swimming, Water skiing, Wind surfing, Snorkeling – Speed boat or dhow trips to snorkel and view amazing sea life at nearby islands of Manda Toto and Kinyika.

Kristi shared: “The staff helped book everything… and Betty’s massage was divine!”

Zahir House Services at a Glance

ServiceIncluded in StayAvailable on RequestDetails
Daily HousekeepingThoughtful, quiet service — your space is refreshed while you relax.
BreakfastLight, local, and fresh — served in the courtyard or rooftop.
Wi-FiReliable connection for working or keeping in touch.
Laundry ServiceHand-washed and line-dried with care.
Private Chef / CateringFor dinners, retreats, or special occasions. Traditional Swahili cuisine.
Airport / Boat TransfersArranged through trusted local providers.
Guided ExcursionsSail, snorkel, or explore Lamu Town with local guides.
Massage / Spa TreatmentsIn-house wellness rituals by vetted professionals.
Event Hosting (Retreats/Weddings)Intimate gatherings in a space that feels both sacred and serene.
Child-Friendly AmenitiesBaby cots, extra bedding, and family-friendly spaces are available.

 

 

Extras & Comforts

Wi-Fi on main floors (expanding soon)
Mosquito nets + high-quality bedding
Family-friendly layout + extra staff room
Smoking is allowed on balconies
Safe, walkable location