Tranquil Takawiri Island, on Kenya's Lake Victoria

[Nancy Yogo]

Kate_Els

Kenya can boast its share of appealing Indian Ocean beach resorts, of course in places like Lamu and Diana. And Takawiri Island bears some resemblance to the Kenyan coast with its white-sand beaches, palm trees, and tropical foliage - though its beaches are blessedly uncrowded. That's because it's not on the coast at all, but rather in far western Kenya, one of 19 islands on the small bit of the world's second largest freshwater lake, Lake Victoria (called by locals Nam Lolwe), which falls within the country (most of it is in neighboring Tanzania and Uganda). 

 

How to Get There

From Nairobi to Mbita by road is roughly a seven-hour drive. After reaching Mbita, you will connect by boat with local fishermen, which will take 45 minutes to the island. A quicker option is to fly from Kabunde Airstrip in Homabay. For those who want to opt for public transportation, ferry and water bus are available to Mfangano Island from Mbita, with scheduled departures daily.

Things to Do

The resorts in these areas are beautiful and offer a full panoply of amenities amid sandy beaches, palms fresh blue water, and tropical breezes. Some include swimming, fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and birdwatching (the lake attracts myriad species such as fish eagles, white egrets, Egyptian geese, marsh harriers, and the long tailed cormorants). 

                                

Places to Stay

There's a range of accommodations according to budget. Luxury cottages start at 120USD per person with full board, but budget travelers can also come and camp. Here's a partial list of accommodations:

• Takawiri Island Resort
  
• Wayando Beach eco-lodge, Rusinga Island
  
• Mulberry Glamp Beach Resort
  
• The Chill Spot, Mfangano Island
  
• Mfangano Island Beach Resort
  
• Lolwe Cottages

Courtesy of Africa Venture Safaris, http://www.masaikenyasafaris.com.