Kenya’s shore of Africa’s largest freshwater lake, around Kisumu — an island park, impala and long lake views.
Lake Victoria in our Kenya guide, with the places around it.
Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake, shows a softer, slower side of Kenya. On the shore near Kisumu, the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary offers impala-lined trails, picnic spots and lake views, and works as a conservation and education centre. Ndere Island National Park rises from the Winam Gulf, its Themeda grass turning red as it matures, which is why it is known locally as Chula Rabour, “Red Island”.
Ndere means “meeting place” in Dholuo; Luo tradition holds that early migrants travelling down the Nile Valley rested here before settling on the shore. Before it became a national park in 1986, the island was used by the local Luo community for farming and collecting building materials, and since protection it has seen significant natural regeneration, giving it the quiet, open landscape visitors find today.
Ndere’s rolling hills and shallow valleys look south to the Homa Hills across the water. The island park, which covers just 4.2 square kilometres, was first established as a refuge for impala and now also supports zebras, hippos, Nile crocodiles, African fish eagles and swifts. Its compact size makes it easy to explore, and its views across the gulf are part of its appeal.
Wildlife moves freely and sightings are never guaranteed.
Crossing from Kisumu to walk the island park.
Lakeside trails and picnics near Hippo Point.
Kisumu International Airport has flights from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta and Wilson airports, and Kisumu lies north-west of Nairobi by road. The impala sanctuary is just outside the city near Hippo Point, with Sitatunga Gate for vehicles. Ndere Island is reached by boat from Kisumu; the park headquarters, on the mainland between Asat and Bao beaches, lies off the Kisumu–Bondo road. Ferries link Kisumu with Kendu Bay, Homa Bay and Mbita.
Every journey here includes Lake Victoria on its catalogue route.
Mt Kenya · Nakuru · Baringo · Kakamega · Lake Victoria · Maasai Mara · Tarangire · Serengeti · Ngorongoro
Lodge accommodation, with Buraha Zenoni (Lake Nakuru).
Kenya
Combined with Lake Victoria on one of our journeys.
Kenya
Combined with Lake Victoria on one of our journeys.
Kenya
Combined with Lake Victoria on one of our journeys.
Kenya
Combined with Lake Victoria on one of our journeys.
Facts on this page were checked against these sources in October 2026. Park rules, fees and conditions change, so always check the latest before you travel.
Tell us when you would like to travel and who is coming, and our team will suggest safaris that include Lake Victoria.
