Western Kenya safari destinations are the best-kept Kenya safari secrets. Southern and Central Kenya safari destinations are the most explored because of the amazing adventures including safari journeys in Masai Mara National Reserve. This leaves the northern and the western parts way less explored yet with remarkably beautiful destinations.
Western Kenya to differ from the north is a green and eco-friendly safari destination. The region’s location between the world’s second-largest lake and the great Rift Valley makes it outstanding. It has one of the best weather conditions in Kenya. The major western Kenya safari destinations are nature-based and since nothing beats Mother Nature you can only wonder how magnificent they are.
In today’s Discovery Journeys safari guide, we take you through the top western Kenya safari destinations for your consideration if you ever decide to visit the area.
Mount Elgon’s wilderness and beauty are unmatched. This eighth-highest mountain on the African continent also has the largest Volcanic mountain base. Mount Elgon is also East Africa’s oldest stand-alone Volcanic mountain. This is the most iconic of all western Kenya safari destinations.
Mount Elgon’s mountains’ rich volcanic soils boost a lush montane forest on the lower slopes. This is home to several wildlife species including elephants, bush duikers, primates like baboons and monkeys, and various bird species.
Mount ELgons’ vegetation zones vary depending on the mountain’s altitude and offer a unique experience while on the mountain hike. The montane forests stop at around 2500 meters above sea level where the bamboo zone starts. From the bamboo zone, you eventually find the Heath and Moorland zone that has giant Lobelia plants. These rarely occur in any other place in the region.
Mountain climbing is the main safari activity you can engage in while visiting the area. The mountain peak Wagagai is in Uganda and can be hiked to even from Kenya. Simple guided nature walks are also doable for those who might not have time to hike to the summit.
Mfangano Island
Mfangano Island is a secluded island in Lake Victoria and one of the best honeymoon destinations in Kenya. The island covers a land area of 65 square kilometers and was initially dominated by the Suba people.
The island’s location within Lake Victoria makes it an incredible destination. Mfangano island has a rich cultural heritage from the Bantu and Nilotic ethnic inhabitants who have intermarried over the years. The island derives its name from the Suba word Okuwangana which means a place where people unite.
Mfangano Island also has historical attractions including rock paintings dating back about 2000 years. These are believed to have been inscribed by the Batwa pygmies who are among the initial inhabitants of the Great Lakes region. There is a total of 36 sacred sites on the island with 19 of these still intact with cultural significance.
On a visit to this island, you can therefore choose to relax enjoy the cool breeze from the lake, or explore the rich culture and heritage. There are many fishing communities you can visit as well to get to know more about the ways of life. Kenya safari experiences are laid back and push you back in time.
Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is one of the prominent lakes in the Great Lakes region. It is Africa’s largest Lake and the world’s second-largest freshwater lake. Lake Victoria is shared between Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya and it is among the iconic western Kenya safari destinations.
This lake is perhaps East Africa’s less-utilized tourism potential destination. Lake Victoria is dominated by fishing communities with no major tourism cruising and resort facilities. This still gives it a great advantage of offering authentic African cultural experiences of the fishing communities. You can enjoy a canoe ride along the Lake to the fishing communities in a dugout canoe.
Kisumu Kenya’s third-largest city is located on the shores of this Lake and offers interrupted views of the Lake. Kisumu City is also historical with its prominence dating back to the pre-colonial ages. It is a business hub and trade center in the region with transportation networks to Nairobi and Mombasa Kenya’s coastal city.
Rusinga Island
Rusinga Island is another hidden gem in western Kenya in Lake Victoria. The island is elongated in shape and covers only 16 kilometers from end to end. Though small, Rusinga Island is beautiful and remarkable hence making it to the list of the top western Kenya safari destinations.
It is also dominated by the Luo-speaking people but its heritage is of the Bantu-speaking Suba people. These are believed to have come from Uganda settling on the island hundred years ago. The little cultural background of the Suba people can only be found in the names of the places the island has as a lot of has faded away due to intermarriages.
On a visit to the island, you can enjoy visits to the fishing villages or choose to relax at the beach. Rusinga Island’s other unique tourist aspect is in archeology. It has some fossils of mammals dating back 18 million years. You can connect to the island through Homa Bay
Takawiri Island
Takawiri Island is a beautiful island in Lake Victoria and another exclusive western Kenya safari destination. It lies about 15 kilometers from the Mainland and it is right next to Mfangano island.
It is one of the best places in Kenya where you can just visit to relax by the beach. Takawiri Island boosts vibrant wildlife including birds making it a great birding safari destination.
The island’s white sand beaches are alluring and you can even engage in beach sports activities.
Western Kenya safari destinations are truly outstanding and best to include on your Kenya safari adventure. Other notable attractions and destinations include the Kakamega forest, the tea plantations, and historical museums of Key Kenya political figures. For this and the best of Kenya signature experiences, you can contact us and have your itinerary customized.
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