About us
OUR STORY
Aldo & Silvia,
from Italy to Kenya,
with love.
Where history breathes and comfort is hand-built.
Recently constructed using traditional Swahili techniques, The Charming Lonno Lodge was born from a deep reverence for heritage — a lodge designed not merely to echo the past, but to let you live in it, gently and comfortably.
This isn’t a fantasy conjured from the tambours and tales of memory, but a tribute to a rich, real history. Inspired by the ancient trade routes that once brought gold, ivory, and spices from Africa’s interior to its coast, Lonno Lodge draws on the cultural legacy that created the Swahili language, architecture, and way of life.
The result? A harmonious blend of forms and finishes — as though generations of builders had shaped it over time, layer after thoughtful layer.
To achieve this timeless look and feel, we recovered age-old construction techniques and materials that need neither electricity nor chemicals — allowing the lodge to breathe naturally and welcome you with effortless grace.
So where would you rather spend your holiday? Among the rigid noise of modern design… or in the gentle hush of a space shaped by centuries?
Lonno Lodge is tucked away just outside the bustle of Watamu, directly facing the endless blue of the Indian Ocean. We’re nestled between the Watamu Marine National Park, Mida Creek’s Protected Area, and the Arabuko Sokoke Forest — a dream for nature lovers.
And with just four Tower Rooms and five Suites, our deliberately small scale means you’ll enjoy true privacy, peace, and silence. No crowds. No chaos. (And no disco — forgive us! 😊)
But you will find your space. You’ll find it on our Rooms at a Glance page.
Thoughtfully simple. Deliciously personal.
Our restaurant, open exclusively to our staying guests, serves meals thoughtfully crafted each day — always fresh, always tailored. Whether you lean toward Swahili tradition, crave a classic Italian dish, prefer vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply want something light and elegant, just say the word.
Our saltwater pool sits at the heart of the lodge, a place for quiet sunbathing, a refreshing dip, or sharing a drink and a story. Nearby, you’ll find complimentary sunbeds, fresh towels, water shoes for seaside strolls at low tide, and even mountain bikes for the more adventurous explorers among us.
Need a cocktail from the Pool Bar? A restorative Swedish massage? You’re in the right place — no need to go anywhere else.
And at 5:00 p.m., when the day begins to wind down, we’ll be waiting for you. Our complimentary Tea Time is a simple pleasure shared daily, a sweet moment to celebrate just being here.
We moved to Kenya in February 2006 to follow the construction of The Charming Lonno Lodge, which opened its doors to guests in early 2009. From the very beginning, our focus has been on providing a level of service that feels both personal and exceptional.
At Lonno Lodge, you’ll find the attentive, discreet hospitality you would expect from a boutique hotel of our caliber — a thoughtful balance between personalized service, genuine care for your needs, and the quiet beauty of seaside life.
Whether you seek privacy, relaxation, or simple, unforgettable moments by the ocean, Lonno Lodge is designed to be your sanctuary.
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