Things To Do
in Kendu Bay

Whole tilapia grilled over charcoal, usually seasoned simply with salt and occasionally spices; widely available at lakeside stalls and small restaurants.

Must-Try!

Large fillets of Nile perch served fried or in a tomato-onion stew; popular in sit-down eateries in town.

Small silver cyprinids either dried or fried and served with ugali or vegetables; an inexpensive local staple sold at the fish market.

Staple maize porridge (ugali) typically served with collard greens (sukuma wiki) or a vegetable stew; found at most local homes and eateries.

Early morning hub where fishermen land catches and local women sell fresh and dried fish; try a hot plate of grilled tilapia or buy smoked/salted fish to take away.

Small stalls selling roasted maize, mandazi (fried dough), samosas and tea — good places for quick snacks and to watch daily life.

In Luo culture elders are treated with high regard; greet older people first and show deference in conversation and seating.

Begin interactions with a polite greeting (in Luo or Swahili) before business; small talk matters and abruptness can be seen as rude.

Always ask permission before photographing people, funeral ceremonies or private homesteads; some cultural events require strict privacy.

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting rural homes or attending church; beachwear should be limited to the immediate lakeside and private spots.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips (KES 50–200, a few dollars) for boat crew, porters and attentive guides are common. In local eateries and markets tipping is informal — rounding up the bill or leaving change is fine.

Cash (Kenyan shillings) is king in Kendu Bay for markets, boda-bodas and small businesses. Mobile money (M-Pesa) is widely used and a convenient option; some guesthouses accept mobile payments. Credit and debit cards are uncommon outside larger towns—carry sufficient cash for daily needs.

Expect frequent heavy showers and muddy roads; boat trips can be choppier and some dirt tracks may become difficult. Rates and visitor numbers are lower—bring waterproofs and sturdy footwear.

Drier, cooler weather with clearer skies and good conditions for hiking, birding and boat trips; this is a comfortable time to visit the lake and nearby islands.

Intermittent rains and humidity rise; some short showers but also many sunny periods—pack a light rain jacket and flexible plans.

Warmer temperatures and lower rainfall make for pleasant lakeside days; increased local travel during holidays may mean more activity at markets and transport hubs.

The nearest large airport (approximately 60–90 km away depending on route); offers scheduled domestic flights and some regional connections. From Kisumu you can travel by private hire, bus or matatu to Kendu Bay—expect a 1.5–3 hour drive depending on traffic and road conditions.

A smaller airstrip closer to Kendu Bay serving charter and occasional domestic flights; access is limited and services irregular, but it shortens road travel when available. From Homa Bay town you can take a matatu or boda-boda to Kendu Bay.

Vegetarian options are limited but possible: request sukuma wiki, cooked vegetables, beans and ugali. Many street stalls focus on fish and meat, so communicate restrictions clearly and prefer guesthouse kitchens or larger towns for more choices.

Vegan travelers will need to rely on staple vegetables, beans and ugali; ask cooks about stock or small amounts of fish used in preparation, and consider carrying snacks if you have strict needs.

Ugali is naturally gluten-free (made from maize), but processed snacks may contain wheat; confirm ingredients at eateries and avoid packaged items unless labeled.

Stick to busy vendors with high turnover for fish, choose thoroughly cooked foods, drink bottled or boiled water and avoid ice from unverified sources.