Banana House & Wellness centre

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Banana House & Wellness centre

Banana House and Wellness Centre is a boutique hotel and wellness retreat located in Shela village, Lamu Island, Kenya. It combines traditional Swahili architecture, tropical gardens, accommodation, yoga, wellness experiences, and a relaxed island lifestyle. 

1. Location and setting

  • Address: Plot 318, Lamu Island, 80500, Kenya. 

  • Located in Shela, a peaceful coastal village known for its beaches, dhow-building traditions, and historic Swahili culture. 

  • The property is designed as a tranquil private-home-style retreat rather than a large resort, with gardens, courtyards, and open-air spaces. 

2. History and concept

Banana House was created by Monika and Banana (a Swahili name) after extensive world travel. Their goal was to create a welcoming home where visitors could experience Lamu’s culture while focusing on relaxation and wellbeing. 

The centre’s philosophy focuses on:

  • Slow living

  • Connection with nature

  • Healthy food

  • Yoga and relaxation

  • Cultural immersion

  • Personal wellbeing 

3. Accommodation

The property offers boutique-style accommodation spread across several houses within a tropical garden environment. Public listings describe approximately 16 rooms across three houses. 

Room features may include:

  • Private bathrooms

  • Seating areas

  • Terrace options

  • Garden, pool, or sea views (depending on room type)

  • Traditional decorative elements combined with comfort features 

The style reflects Lamu’s coastal identity:

  • Carved wooden details

  • Natural materials

  • Swahili-inspired décor

  • Indoor-outdoor living spaces 

4. Wellness facilities and services

The centre’s wellness offering includes:

Yoga

  • Yoga classes are available on-site (some sessions may require an additional charge). 

Spa and relaxation

  • Massage services

  • Beauty/wellness treatments

  • Spa and wellness facilities 

Holistic environment

  • Tropical gardens

  • Quiet spaces for meditation and relaxation

  • Fresh organic-style cuisine and wellness programmes 

5. Food and dining

Banana House emphasizes fresh, healthy meals. Available breakfast options include:

  • Continental breakfast

  • Vegetarian options

  • Vegan options

  • Halal options 

The food approach supports the wellness theme by emphasizing fresh ingredients and relaxed dining. 

6. Main amenities

Reported facilities include:

  • Outdoor swimming pool

  • Free Wi-Fi

  • Spa and wellness centre

  • Room service

  • Family rooms

  • Tea/coffee facilities

  • Breakfast service

  • Garden and terrace areas 

7. Activities and experiences nearby

Guests can explore:

  • Shela Beach

  • Lamu Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)

  • Traditional dhow trips

  • Local markets

  • Swahili architecture

  • Cultural tours

  • Water activities around the Lamu archipelago 

8. Atmosphere and target guests

Banana House is particularly suited for:

  • Couples seeking a quiet getaway

  • Yoga and wellness travellers

  • Visitors interested in culture and history

  • Writers, artists, and people seeking a peaceful retreat

  • Travellers who prefer boutique accommodation over large hotels

Guest reviews commonly highlight:

  • Warm hospitality

  • Peaceful atmosphere

  • Unique design

  • Garden environment

  • Location in Shela village 

9. Contact details

10. Overall assessment

Banana House and Wellness Centre is best described as a boutique eco-conscious wellness retreat in Lamu. Its main appeal is not luxury in the conventional five-star sense, but a combination of authentic Swahili surroundings, personalized hospitality, nature, wellness activities, and a homely atmosphere. 

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