WHERE TO STAY IN AND AROUND LAKE VICTORIA
Heading to Lake Victoria? Then check out these places to stay in and around Kisumu, and on the lake itself.
KWEISOS HOUSE, KORU
About a 90-minute drive east of Kisumu is this simple, rustic homestead, built on a hill with tremendous views over the surrounding countryside. The original house is a Harrods flatpack, shipped from England in 1912. With three rooms - two doubles and a twin - it makes for a cosy family stay. Over the years, the owners have added four more double rooms, a little separate from the house, allowing it to accommodate up to 14 at one time. There is good walking in the area, tennis and horse-riding on request, and trips to nearby dams on the large farm for a spot of fishing for tilapia. Small pool on the property. Ksh 7,500 pp full-board, Ksh 3,000 pp self-catering. Ksh 2,000 for under 12s. www.homalime.com
KIBOKO BAY RESORT, KISUMU
A perennial favourite in Kisumu, and indeed, it hardly feels like you’re in Kisumu at all. About a 3 km drive from the centre, this camp has a prime spot overlooking Lake Victoria, whether you’re here for a sundowner on the pontoon or have come to stay. Accommodation is in spacious, nicely-furnished, wooden-floored safari tents, and come with hairdryers and coffee-making facilities. There’s a one-bedroom cottage available for those looking for more privacy, with its own jacuzzi and a bedroom. It’s not possible to self-cater, however. Although possible to swim in the lake itself, why would you want to when there’s a lovely pool and baby pool overlooking the lake? Starts from Ksh 13,000 for a double, B&B. www.kibokobay.com
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RUSINGA ISLAND LODGE
A beautifully-designed lodge on Rusinga - accessible by bridge from the mainland - that has changed hands more than a few times in recent years. Nevertheless, it retains much of its charm - beautiful rooms with private verandas, a gorgeous lakeside setting with various resting spots scattered over the well-kept lawn and swimming pool and small spa. It is such an oasis in this part of Rusinga, and indeed around Lake Victoria, that it has become a very popular day trip spot for those looking for a lakeside lunch spot, or a day at the pool. Those paying top-dollar prices to stay here, however, may find it not quite exclusive enough. Starts from Ksh 16,000 pp, sharing, fullboard. www.rusinga.com
