Baytil Ajaib – Lamu Hotels
About Baytil Ajaib
Meaning the House of Wonder, Baitil Ajaib is one of the finest representations of the patrician Lamu palatial townhouses that have all but vanished from Lamu. It is located in Lamu Town proper on a high incline providing one with wonderful views of Lamu Town, the Lamu archipelago, sailing dhows returning from fishing, the occasional school of dolphins that pass through the channel not to mention some of the most breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
As there is a veranda or an open courtyard on each floor the house is frequented often by birds and butterflies at different times of the day. One of the major features of a traditional stone house is that they are completely open.
Over the past 8 years the house was restored, preserving and enhancing the original features – basic Swahili homes are centered around a large courtyard, with inward-facing rooms – and dividing it into five apartments. Baytil Ajaib is extravagantly decorated. The ceilings are made from five types of lime-coral stone, including snail shell, with alcoves engraved with turtles, representing fertility and resistance to evil spirits.
Another overwhelming aspect of this beautiful home is the spaciousness of this gracious living. Some of the suites are over 120sqm in size opening up on a private courtyard commanding the entire etage. Walls and columns that grace ceilings covered in mwangati wood – a very hardwood that comes from clost to the Somali border – painted red, black and inlaid in white line at a height of no less than 5 meters only adds to the once upon a time splendour that reigned.
Accommodation at Baytil Ajaib, Lamu Town
All apartments and suites open up onto a veranda or a courtyard normally supported by arches and columns. Baytil Ajaib offers two double apartments and two double suites. All apartments and suites have their own private bathrooms. There are also scattered seating arrangements in Baiytil Ajaib for those that may want to curl up and read in some other part of the house.
The dining hall is on the ground floor. And of course for those who can’t quite make it to the breakfast table, it can be served in the apartment.
Staff & Linen
Baytil Ajaib has its house staff to cater to your needs. Bed linen, mosquito nets, and house towels are provided, but please bring your own beach towels if required.
Dining Options & the Kitchen
Baytil Ajaib offers half-board, full-board or B&B dining which is flexible and for those who want to get in on the action you can help arrange the menu. Basic foodstuff, fresh vegetables and fruits are available in the local Lamu market while other supplies are flown down from Nairobi. Fish, lobster, crab and fresh oysters come to the door or can be ordered. The kitchen is well-equipped with an electric and gas cooker, fridge, deep-freeze, food processor, coffee and pepper grinder, and a proper espresso coffee can be magically produced.
