10 Best Activities to do in Kisumu. Kisumu is one of the largest thriving cities in Kenya. Additionally, it is strategically located along the shoreline of Lake Victoria with a population of over 500,000 individuals. The city is a cultural center for the Luo-speaking people, and is flourishing economically in the Republic of Kenya.

Kisumu town serves as an industrial and commercial center. This city is a vibe and is worth a visit when you are in Kenya. So, we are going to look at the activities to do and the best places to visit in Kisumu.

If someone is on time and they want to reach Kisumu, the fastest way would be by air transport. There are domestic flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson International Airport to Kisumu International Airport.  So, in about an hour’s time, one would arrive in Kisumu for your outdoor activities.

On the other hand, by road, one can either use public transport by taking the buses. Or rent a car in Kenya, and the primary road that is used is the A104 (B1) highway, taking 6-7 hours to reach Kisumu, depending on how heavy the traffic is. Our Serengeti Masai Mara Safari Specialists save you that hustle, so we include transportation services in our Kenya holiday packages for Kisumu.

1. Kisumu town gives an opportunity to explore the unique culture of the Luo people. So, that’s unlike other common Kenyan tribes, such as the Maasai found near other places to visit in Kenya, like the Masai Mara National Reserve. The Luo people are strategically centered in Kisumu, and tourists also get a first-hand experience of the warm hospitality of these people.
2. This is also one of the towns in Kenya that offers hippo and birdwatching safaris. So, this becomes more interesting as one can easily combine these activities in Kisumu with cultural and spiritual sites in the same destination.
3. Safaris in Kisumu are very meaningful since tourists pay for them. Also, it is a way of contributing to a better economy in this location. Especially for the local people, as the funds usually go directly into their finances, alleviating their day-to-day way of living.

This museum is located on Mfangano Island, which is only reachable by water transport. So, the boat trip to the Abasuba Peace Museum takes approximately three hours to get there from Kisumu. This museum teaches more about the culture of the Abasuba people, one of the indigenous tribes that inhabited the shoreline of Lake Victoria.

So, during the visit, tourists are told more about the significance of culture preservation while they take a deep dive into one of the less talked about communities within the Lake Victoria region. Hence, one gets a new and different perspective of history and anthropology as they explore the panoramic views of the island.

Enjoy the incredible lake views as you feast on freshly cooked seafood. Also, Dunga Hill Camp is located 5 km away from Kisumu and recommended for those who want romantic places in Kenya. The unique blend of flavors and the vibrant atmosphere created by the lively market offer an unforgettable experience.

Tourists to Kisumu Impala Sanctuary usually get a more intimate experience with the wildlife as they hike. This wildlife sanctuary is about 3 km from Kisumu Town. So, encounter different wild animals such as the zebras, giraffes, and impalas during your nature walks. Monitor their behavior and get more knowledgeable facts and insights from the expert guides at this Sanctuary.

Also, watch the predators in those enclosed habitats to avoid any risky actions from taking place.

7. Cultural exploration at Kisumu Museum.

Immerse yourself in the culture of the Luo-speaking people at Kisumu Museum located on the Kisumu-Bondo road. So, learn more about the Luo traditions and ancient history through their exhibits, like their homesteads known as the “Manyattas”. The latter are similar to those of the Maasai people, including their tools and weapons. At the Kisumu museum, you’re promised a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the Luo people.

8. Day tour to the legendary Kit Mikayi rock – Awesome activities to do in Kisumu

Take a 1-hour drive from the center of Kisumu and explore the unique geographical formation of the Kit Mikayi rock. Tourists not only get to hike through this unique terrain but also dive into the spiritual facts and myths of the Luo people. This 1 day Kenya tour to Kit Mikayi rock is adventurous, as it involves exploring the different caves. Additionally,  get told stories about the ancestors of this tribe.

9. Boat ride safaris for the hippo and bird watching safaris at Dunga Beach.

Dunga beach is found on the south shoreline of Lake Victoria, and is 5 km from Kisumu city. Tourists board the wooden boat and cruise through the sapphire waters. So, during this boat trip experience in Kenya, spot different pods of hippos wallowing through the waters. Also, watch different bird species like cormorants, kingfishers, and herons.

This unique experience in Kisumu becomes more authentic as the tourists get to interact with the local people. For example, the fishermen, and learn how this community project was established and how it is run.

Where to stay in Kisumu.