The Area

Much of the film was filmed within, or nearby Kiunga Marine National Reserve, an unspoilt ribbon of magic that lies between an expanse of uncharted African Savannah and the rich blue waters of the Indian Ocean. It is an ecological mosaic of Acacia woodland, ancient coral islands, flourishing mangrove forests and meandering tidal creeks- the likes of which are to be found nowhere else in Africa.

It also manages to sustain its local population of Bajunis, proud and resourceful, and dependant on fishing and farming for their simple livelihood. But despite its enchanting appearance, the threat of development and of denuding the area of its rich resources is close at hand. It is for this reason that Kiunga Marine National Reserve has been established with a commitment to the area for at least 50 years. Further interesting information (biological and otherwise) can be found on their downloadable documents: (NOTE: THESE ARE VERY LARGE FILES AND WILL TAKE AN EXTRAORDINARILY LONG TIME TO DOWNLOAD OVER PHONE LINES)
-general information and background about KMR (in .pdf format - 15mg)
-a visitor's guide to KMR (in .pdf format - 10mg)
-a pledge form for UK resdients (in .pdf format - 7mg)

Within the reserve, on Kiwayu Island itself, there is a fantastic eco-friendly safari camp, Munira (http://www.geocities.com/TheTropics/Cabana/6652/), run by Mike Kennedy. Here all the pleasures of the place can be enjoyed without putting pressure on its fragile resources. In Kiwayu village itself a low-key banda is also being built by a local couple for more budget guests….we’ll keep you posted.

Lamu on the other hand, is a bustling strong-hold of Swahili culture in its oldest form, fascinating and noisy, and rarely a dull moment. It has recently been made a World Heritage Center (whc.unesco.org/sites/1055. htm) and is a place of much interest, historical and otherwise, with plenty of places to stay and see: www.jambokenya.com/jambo/location/lamu.htm).