Things To Do
in Busia
Busia, Kenya is a vibrant town located near the border with Uganda, known for its rich cultural diversity and bustling markets. The town serves as a significant commercial hub, facilitating trade between the two countries. Visitors will find a mix of traditional and modern lifestyles, with friendly locals and a variety of activities to explore.
The scenic views of Lake Victoria and the surrounding landscapes enhance the beauty of this unique destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Busia Market, where you can experience local life and shop for fresh produce and handicrafts.
Visit the Busia Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Victoria.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying out traditional Kenyan dishes, and end the day with a walk through the town to experience the nightlife.
Head to the nearby Nambale Hills for a morning hike and enjoy scenic views of the landscape.
Visit the nearby Kakamega Forest for bird watching and exploring the diverse flora and fauna.
Return to Busia for a cultural evening with traditional music and dance performances at a local venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| 🚌Bus fare within town | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
- Affordable cost of living and food.
- Access to beautiful nature and outdoor activities.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may lack reliable infrastructure.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Swahili speakers.
- "Jambo" - Hello
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Nzuri sana" - Very good
Places to Visit in Busia
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning sunrise and sunset views over the largest lake in Africa.
A vibrant place filled with colors, people, and local crafts, perfect for candid shots.
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for nature photography.
Food in Busia
Busia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple food made from maize flour, served with vegetables or meat.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried collard greens often served as a side dish.
Fresh fish from Lake Victoria cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food.
Try local snacks such as samosas and mandazi from various street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common, and it's polite to inquire about someone's well-being.
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites.
Elders are respected in the community and should be greeted first.
Safety
Tipping in Busia
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 10% is customary, especially in upscale restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile money services like M-Pesa are also popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities, with less rain and cooler temperatures.
Expect heavy rainfall; some roads may become impassable, but the landscape is lush and green.
A brief rainy period; still a good time to visit with fewer crowds.
Temperatures can be high; stay hydrated and plan activities for the cooler parts of the day.
Busia at Night
Hiking in Busia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Various trails through the lush forest, ideal for nature walks and bird watching.
Airports
How to reach Busia by plane.
A small airstrip primarily serving domestic flights; the nearest major airport is Kisumu International Airport, approximately 90 km away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the region, known for their rich traditions and agricultural lifestyle.
Other ethnic groups present in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Busia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Busia, with many local teams and amateur matches played throughout the week.
Running and track events are common, with many young athletes training for competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Busia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes such as ugali and sukuma wiki are vegetarian-friendly.
Dishes based on maize flour may not be suitable for gluten-free diets; inquire about alternatives.