Over time, Kisumu has grown to become a preferred travel destination. Both local and international tourists throng this lakeside city to see and feel what it has to offer. Being the third-largest city in Kenya, it’s blessed to have some unique attraction sites such as Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, Hippo Point, Kisumu Museum, and Masai Craft Market. Besides that, as the city is situated beside Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, it prides itself on having some of the best freshwater fish in Kenya. What’s more, Kisumu is home to the late Barack Obama Sr., the father to America’s 44th president, Barack Obama. That said, for whatever reason you’re in this town, you’ll always have an array of recreational activities to indulge in. Read below to find out more about the best things to do in Kisumu, Kenya, for fun unforgettable memories.
1. Learn about local history at Kisumu Museum
Get insights into Luo culture by visiting this museum. As the Luo tribe is predominant in the region, most artifacts on display and the staff are from the tribe. What a better way of learning people’s way of life as best showcased and explained by themselves? Apart from pieces of art on display, you also see wild animals like crocodiles, snakes, and tortoises in the establishment. To add to the museum’s charm, there’s a group of traditional dancers who sing and dance to entertain visitors. In addition, inside the facility’s compound, is a Luo village with huts that help preserve local heritage.
Kisumu Museum
Website: Kisumu Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat: 8am - 12pm (closed on Sun)
2. Relax and unwind at Freedom Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re looking for a quiet and tranquil park with plenty of shade in Kisumu, then visit Freedom Park. It’s a good spot to rest and read a book or enjoy the local weather. Other than that, the park is centrally located so it’s easy to access. In case you feel thirsty and need a cold drink to cool down, there are plenty of shops around the establishment selling fairly priced refreshments.
Freedom Park, Kisumu
Address: Uhuru Rd, Kisumu
3. See hippos at Hippo Point
A short distance away from Kisumu central business district is Hippo Point, a recreational area on the shores of Lake Victoria. It’s a nice place to not only see hippos but also different bird species found in the region. Sunset views from this scenic spot are breathtaking as well. You’re free to carry your own snacks and drinks or you can buy them from the point. Also, sample delicious street food that includes fried fish from food joints around the area.
Hippo Point
Address: Harambee Rd, Kisumu
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
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4. Check out the animals at Kisumu Impala Sanctuary
This sanctuary is endowed with a variety of wild animals and birds such as zebras, giraffes, monkeys, and impalas. It was established to house endangered impalas within Kisumu and its surrounding areas. Other than the park being well-maintained, it has proper signboards that make movement around it easy. There are also wooden benches at strategic points in the establishment that are perfect resting areas.
Kisumu Impala Sanctuary
Address: Harambee Rd, Kisumu
Website: Kisumu Impala Sanctuary
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
5. Buy handcrafted artifacts and souvenirs at Masai Craft Market
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re in search of gifts and souvenirs made by talented Kenyan citizens in Kisumu, then visit Masai Craft Market. The market is located along Kisumu – Nairobi Highway thus easily accessible. Some pieces of art on sale include paintings, necklaces, and bracelets. What’s more interesting is that you can get customized soapstone carvings. Yes, in some shops in the facility, you are given that chance to suggest how you would like your carving to look like. At the end of your visit, you’ll not lack something to take home from this market.
Masai Craft Market
Address: Omino Cres Rd, Kisumu
6. Watch the sun go down at Dunga Hill Camp
Enjoy the cool evening breeze at Dunga Hill Camp, a time that the lake waters hug the shore. Get treated to breathtaking sunset views as you devour deliciously cooked fish that’s accompanied by a glass of wine. From this facility, you also experience views of the expansive Lake Victoria. Relax in the seating area with friends and family and enjoy an outdoor meal as you bond and interact. You can also take thrilling boat rides from the establishment to see the lake from a different angle.
Dunga Hill Camp
Website: Dunga Hill Camp
Opening hours: 11am - 11pm (daily)
7. Book an overnight stay at Nyanza Club
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Nestled in the leafy suburbs of Kisumu is this ancient colonial-style club that previously housed British civil servants and railway builders. The club is home to a modern hotel that prides itself on having contemporary amenities such as an on-premises lounge and swimming pool. Rooms in the hotels are spacious and clean, giving you a simple and quiet stay. Nearby are eateries such as Java House and The Laughing Buddha Lounge and Cafe are great for sampling local cuisines.
Nyanza Club
Website: Nyanza Club
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
8. Enjoy a boat ride at Dunga Beach
Boat rides are a great way of seeing a region from another angle. In Dunga Beach, apart from experiencing the beautiful sunset views, set sail and familiarize yourself with Kisumu’s marine ecosystem. You also get to see the city and its environs aboard a vessel with friendly and welcoming locals. On the beach are plenty of food joints that mostly serve fried fish from Lake Victoria. After embarking on the boat tour, indulge your taste buds by sampling the tastefully cooked fresh fish. Dunga Beach is also a nice spot to meet and interact with the locals.
Dunga Beach
Address: Kisumu, Kenya
9. Shop till you drop at The West End Shopping Mall
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by The West End Kisumu on Sunday, May 12, 2019
There’s something for people of all ages at The West End Shopping Mall. If you’re looking to either sample local food, buy shoes or clothes, or get a haircut, this modern mall is out to cater to your needs. Other than the facility’s close proximity to the town center, it’s also clean and well-organized to make your shopping experience easy and fast. Shop at famous local and international outlets such as Woolworths, Bata, Chandarana Foodplus, and Nairobi Java House.
The West End Shopping Mall
Website: The West End Shopping Mall
Opening hours: 9am - 11pm (daily)
10. Dance the night away at Signature
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by CLUB Signature Kisumu on Monday, November 30, 2020
Signature night club is a popular entertainment joint among locals in Kisumu because of its good music, food, drinks, and great customer service. Revelers frequent the club to not only pass time but also dance and sing along to sweet melodies by renowned deejays. Grab a drink or try out their tasty food to experience why it’s a preferred hangout spot. Moreover, the club’s ambiance, neatness, and pocket-friendly prices add to its charm.
Signature
Address: 4th Floor, MURBS, Opposite Kiwasco, Makasembo Rd, Kisumu
Website: Signature
Opening hours: 7pm - 6am (daily)
Captivating Kisumu
A great way of exploring a travel destination’s endowments is by indulging in fun recreational activities. While visiting Kisumu, don’t restrict yourself to one place, and get bored; engage in the above activities to create wonderful memories.
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