Dating back to the 12th century, Lamu Town is the oldest inhabited Swahili town in Kenya, comparable only to Tanzania’s Zanzibar (Stone Town). With its ancient fort, its wood-carved doors, bustling markets and the ubiquitous donkeys, the town is charming and authentic—no wonder UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site. Free from first world influence, Lamu retains all of its old world traditions and with little to no international advertising, it is still relatively un-touristy. At the end of your tour, make sure to pick up a fresh coconut and sit in the town square taking a moment to soak it all in and feel like a local.