A Fun Weekend Away by the Lakeside.

When we decided to go to Kisumu, we chose to stay near the lake bearing in mind - ‘Life at the lake is always better’ and nothing beats the views you get watching the sunrise and the sunset.

Aside from that, it was Lake Victoria - Africa’s largest lake, so no further debate was necessary. The next morning we decided to take a boat trip to explore the lake. A boat trip is an easier and much faster way to learn more about the lake. It is very nostalgic and unique with wonderful scenery. The hugely varied and spectacular bird life coupled with a show of the best fishing techniques in old modernized vessels makes for a truly unforgettable experience.

The thought of a boat trip was rather scary, first and foremost our mode of transport would be a wooden boat and its stability and safety was rather questionable. Two, Lake Victoria is huge and the numbers of creatures in that lake are countless. Yes, the hippos are very much visible and you can go on with your business while they sleep but who knows! A crocodile might be anxiously waiting for its prey!

The hugely varied and spectacular bird life coupled with a show of the best fishing techniques in old modernized vessels makes for a truly unforgettable experience.

I’m very adventurous but nature can be cruel and I was not ready to be a gambler in this situation. Despite my trepidation I reluctantly went on the boat, venturing into the unknown (as you do) hopeful to be back in one piece. When adventure calls you take the plunge!

Early morning Lake Victoria is full of activities. Fishing is the predominant activity and everything revolves around it. Fishing village, fish market, fish restaurant and fishing activities with fishermen boating around trying to get a catch. It is basically community living built around fishing.

Fishermen going about their business in Lake Victoria Photo By Grace Onyango

Sailors sail away not caring whether their sails are in good condition, they make do with what they have which makes for a more interesting sailing experience. On the edge of the lake, you will find women and children going about their daily chores. The women wash-up, fetch water while the kids play around the lake and near the fish market.

The simplicity and the way they go about their daily life is a sight that evokes appreciation. It is a normal routine which looking in from outside is indescribable.

This simple pleasure that we take for granted makes one appreciate the fishing culture that is still vibrant, thriving and fighting modernization.

The 3 hour boat trip was informative and very fulfilling and true to the guide’s words, the wooden vessel did not sink; no strange creature attacked us and despite being invaded by the water hyacinth Lake Victoria was gentle and kind to us.

We learnt a lot about the different bird species, animals, plants and the many activities within and at the lake.

After the enlightening three hour boat ride,came a much needed break. On the shores of the lake is The Kisumu Yacht Club, where we got to enjoy some drinks and fish delicacies from the region delighted by the fantastic view of the lake from our beautiful private gazebo. The service was friendly and very welcoming.

Before going to the club,we heard seen some very nice sailing photos of the place in earlier days and we were hoping for the same experience. We expected to get a club of sailors and boat enthusiasts sharing in the thrill of sailing and talking about the wind but nope,we were unfortunately the only guests at the club.

So with our sailing dreams having been shuttered but our stomachs full, our next stop was the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, which did not disappoint. It offered nature and wildlife in a beautiful environment.

One is greeted with the comforting silence of nature, broken only by animals munching away, Impalas running up and about, the chirping of birds and nature’s own sound. One step and you could easily come face to face with a zebra, a giraffe, lots of Impalas and some of the deadliest characters dominating the Sanctuary.

A nature walk here is a constant reminder of the sheer beauty of what the lake region has to offer. One stride into nature and you get to learn about various plants, indigenous trees, birds and wild animals living in this Sanctuary. The stimulating blast of fresh air, the flora and the fauna and the celebration of the great outdoor was welcomed and highly appreciated. Anyone who enjoys nature and wildlife will adore a weekend by the lakeside.

Overall, the lake region was good to us and an evening drink while watching the sun set was the perfect end to it all.

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