Things to Do in Kisumu:

A Few Days of Fun! Things to do in Kisumu range from lakeside wildlife walks and sunset boat rides to forest hikes and Luo cuisine. Kisumu is a city in Western Kenya known for its colorful culture, warm people and stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, there’s always something new to discover. Here are seven of the best.

7 Best Things to Do in Kisumu

  1. Visit the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary

This compact wildlife sanctuary on the shore of Lake Victoria is home to impalas, zebras and giraffes. It’s an easy first stop and one of the most popular things to do in Kisumu.

2. Explore the Kisumu Museum

The Kisumu Museum features exhibits on the region’s culture, history and art. It includes a replica of a traditional Luo homestead.

3. Relax on Lake Victoria

If you’re a nature lover, spend time on Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. You can take a boat ride, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the views.

A sunset boat ride is especially popular. You can watch the sun go down and enjoy the cool breeze.

4. Hike in Kakamega Forest

For some adventure, take a guided hiking tour of the nearby Kakamega Forest. It’s home to over 300 bird species and several primates.

5. Take a Trip to Ruma National Park

Ruma National Park is home to several species of wildlife, including the rare roan antelope. It’s a longer drive from the city, so start early or plan an overnight stay.

6. Shop and Meet the Local Culture

Kisumu’s markets and cultural sites are the best way to experience local life. Kisumu City Market is the perfect place to buy souvenirs and sample street food.

7. Try the Local Cuisine

Kisumu is famous for its delicious local cuisine, and trying it is one of the tastiest things to do in Kisumu. Mama Grace serves mouth-watering fish dishes, and K’Osewe Ranalo Foods is famous for traditional Kenyan dishes like ugali and sukuma wiki.

If you have a sweet tooth, try the famous mandazi, a doughnut-like pastry served with hot chai tea.

Plan Your Trip to Kisumu

Kisumu has something to offer everyone, whether you want adventure, relaxation, or just good food and fun. When you’re planning the best things to do in Kisumu, remember that it fits well into a longer Western Kenya itinerary.

Ready to start? Browse our safari deals or contact our team to include Kisumu in your next Kenya trip.