What is Kisumu best known for?

Currently, Kisumu is one of the fastest growing cities in Kenya. It is thriving with rich sugar and rice irrigation industries , whose contribution to the National economy is immense due to its natural resources and as the epicentre for business in East Africa.

What is the main problem facing Kisumu city?

Environmental degradation and poverty are some of the challenges Kisumu share with other cities that have a rapid urbanization. Despite a growing economy, Kisumu still registers one of the highest poverty levels in Kenya.

What are the historical sites in Kisumu?

Attached to Kisumu museum are a number of sites and monuments of historical significance including Fort Tenan, Songhor, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum, Thimlich Ohinga World Heritage Site, and Tom Mboya Mausoleum .

What are the major towns in Kisumu?

Present-day Kisumu consists of 25 sub-locations that can be grouped into 10 main locations (Township, East Kolwa, Central Kolwa, SouthWest Kisumu, North Kisumu, Central Kisumu, East Kisumu, West Kajulu, East Kajulu, and West Kolwa ).

Where the rich live in Kisumu?

Where do the rich live in Kisumu? The rich live in Milimani, Riat Hills, parts of Mamboleo and the city's outskirts like Kombewa, Ahero, Kiboswa and Sondu .

What does Kisumu mean in English?

The word Kisumu is an English corruption of the word “Kisuma” in dholuo dialect meaning going to trade . Kisumu exhibits a tropical warm climate throughout the year.

What is the old name of Kisumu?

Kisumu was founded in 1901 as the main terminal of the Uganda Railway named " Port Florence ".

What is Kisumu sister city?

Kisumu also has sister city links with Roanoke in Virginia and Boulder, Colorado in the USA. Kisumu is the capital city of Kisumu County and has a population of just under 400,000 people and was pronounced a city in 2001, commemorating the centenary of the first train to reach Kisumu.

What is the largest industry in Kisumu?

It is also the chief terminus for the agricultural produce of Nyanza and Western provinces. Industries are centred on processing agricultural products, brewing, and textile manufacturing . Kisumu is one of Kenya's largest cities.

Is Kisumu a good place to live?

Kisumu, Kenya's third largest city with approximately 800,000 residents, is situated next to Lake Victoria and is dealing with problems of unemployment, high poverty, inadequate provision of basic services, slums and a fragile environment .

What is the main tribe in Kisumu?

The vast majority of the people belong to the Luo ethnic community , the third largest tribe in Kenya and one of the largest in East Africa. There are also small numbers of minorities from the other ethnic communities of Kenya, predominantly the Luhya.

What is Kisumu also known as?

Kisumu literally means a place of barter trade “sumo” in the Luo language, and is locally called 'Kisumo'. It was the major port of Lake Victoria during the commonwealth of East Africa, then known as Port Florence .

What is the main industry in Kisumu?

It is also the chief terminus for the agricultural produce of Nyanza and Western provinces. Industries are centred on processing agricultural products, brewing, and textile manufacturing .

What is the staple food of Kisumu?

In Kenya, maize is the commonest staple food, followed by wheat and beans .

How safe is Kisumu Kenya?

There is a high crime rate in most regions of Kenya, particularly in major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and at coastal beach resorts. Traditionally, crimes increase in the weeks before Christmas.

10 Trendy Spots To Check Out In Kisumu (2024)

Annette Mumbi
@smartyannette

Kisumu has made a name for itself as an entertainment and relaxation hub for residents and visitors alike. Its proximity to Africa’s largest lake by area, Lake Victoria, cements its place on the list of great travel destinations.

The beauty of this city is that there’s something for everyone. With its epically diverse array of activities and locales in mind, from nightlife hotspots to restaurants, you will have the fun of your life in the city.

By the Lakeside, you can choose to fish, kayak or go on an adventure on a boat. Away from the shores, the town comes alive with modern malls, shopping centres, hotels, clubs and residential areas. Here are 10 trendy spots to check out in Kisumu:

1.Samba Marina Club

Away from the shores, revellers in the many clubs in Kisumu town continually prove that the town is as hip as it gets. Samba Marina is a trendy spot in the city. The club offers vibrant atmosphere and amazing vibes; you can enjoy a variety of entertainment – music, dance and chill with your friends, while trying out some delicious foods that go great with the local beers and tasteful wines.

2.Dunga Hill Camp

Photo Source: Dunga Hill

Dunga Hill Camp is an establishment overlooking Lake Victoria that seeks to offer guests the ultimate lakeside experience, with a touch of modernity. Its proximity to Lake Victoria is a muted promise of breathtaking views and serene ambiance as you enjoy delightful meals of fish.You can attend the music events held there occasionally, or you can opt for boat riding, fishing or kayaking. Better still, you can camp the night away as you watch the lake hoping to spot some hippos. The food is great and there are plenty of drinks for you to gulpas you watch the picturesque sunsets.

3.Buddy’s Bar & Grill

Photo Source:Buddies Bar & Grill on Facebook

Enjoy a range of culinary delights at Buddy’s Bar & Grill, from contemporary to the local meals. It’s a chic and modern restaurant to experience some of the finest dining in Kisumu. The restaurant offers a variety of menus to suit the time of the day. The bar is fully stocked with co*cktails, wines, beers and liquors. If you love pizza, you should have a taste of Buddy’s Pizza made with special ingredients – a whole symphony of unique spices and flavours. The setting and atmosphere is great to meet with friends and it’s a perfect place for a romantic date. Visit: Buddy’s Bar & Grill.

4.Imperial Hotel Kisumu

Photo Source:Richard Portsmouthon Flickr

Imperial Hotel Kisumu is as refreshingas it is luxurious. It features stylish rooms and suites, which are lavishly furnished. The hotel offers amazing dining at Victoria Terrace, Florence restaurant and Palms Coffee Shop, contemporary interiors, swimming pool, business centre and fitness centre. The hotel accommodation offers all the luxuries and services you’d expect from a five-star deluxe hotel. It’s a regular entertainment spot and accommodation retreat for both locals and tourists. Visit: Imperial Hotel Kisumu

5. Dunga Beach

Photo Source: Panoramio

Spending time by the beach never seems to get outdated, and Kisumu gives you access to Dunga Beachon Lake Victoria shores. The beach is especially popular for fishing and boat riding, both of which are thrilling adventures. Tranquil waters await you as you row farther from the shore, and the amazing views will make you wish you brought a camera. If you are very lucky, you can have the vendors by the beach cook the fish you caught. Dunga beach is a great spot to laze around with friends on sunny afternoons.

6. Impala Sanctuary

Photo Source: Kenya.com

Kisumu City has plenty in store for wildlife lovers. While you can spot hippos during boat rides on some sections of the lake, you will have better luck visiting a Park or Reserve. Kisumu Impala Sanctuary is known for its herds of Impalas, picnic sites and nature trails. The Sanctuary houses other animals as well including hippos, buffaloes, leopards, monkeys, lions and hyenas.

7. Planet Media Cinema

Planet Media Cinema is aplace to be if you want to keep up to date with the latest movies. The cinema is located in the Mega City Mall and the schedule of movies showing can be found online. Be on the lookout for deals and offers from either of the cinemas.

8. West End Shopping Mall

Photo Source:West End Shopping Mall on Facebook

Malls are always a great place to hang out with friends and family, and Kisumu hosts a good number of them including the popular shopping spot – The West End Shopping Mall. There arevastrows of mega-stores where shopping needs are met. There are also a wide variety of dining and entertainment options at the mall.The mall is located at theCorner of Got Huma Road And Achieng Oneko Road in Kisumu. Window shopping at the mall is exciting andyou don’thave to spend money to enjoy the ambiance of the mall. Visit: The West End Kisumu.

9. Kit Mikayi

Photo Source:Wikipedia

Kit Mikayi is a rock formation off Kisumu-Bondo road, which is popular as a pilgrimage site. If you love the outdoors, then Kit Mikayi is a great place to hike with family or friends. Bring your climbing shoes since some of the rocks are pretty steep, but the scenery is great for photography. Hikes to Homa Hills organized by Kisindi Lodge are another great option.

10. Kisumu Museum

Photo Source: Pkwflickr on Flickr

Kisumu Museum is a great spot to learn about the culture and history of the communities living around the Lake. The collection ranges from live animals to tools and weaponry. There are taped programs on the migration and settling of the Luo and an exhibition of a traditional Luo homestead as well. A visit to the museum is insightful, instructive and fun. Visit: Kisumu Museum.

With plenty of trendy spots to visit, you have no excuse not have fun in Kisumu City. You are bound to leave the Lakeside City excited, fulfilled and with memories that last you a while.

Want to visit Kisumu, Travelstart Kenya offers cheap flights from Nairobi or Mombasa to Kisumu. Book your flights now!If you have been to Kisumu lately? Share with us your experience and the trendy spots to check out on our next visit.