MANDA ISLAND is one of the three larger islands that form the Lamu archipelago, situated 320 kms north of Mombasa. The island is linked to Lamu and the mainland (divided by a narrow channel) through a ferry. Manda has its own airport. Takwa and Manda are two ancient Swahili towns of historical significance and of attraction. Manda Island has some beautiful deserted beaches with a few resorts and beach cottages. Large areas of the island are taken up by sand dunes and mangroves.