Things To Do
in Kendu Bay

Kendu Bay is a picturesque lakeside town located on the shores of Lake Victoria in Kenya. Known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant fishing culture, it offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and local traditions. The town serves as a hub for fishing activities and is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes.

It is an ideal destination for those looking to experience local life while enjoying outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Kendu Bay
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kendu Bay beach to enjoy the sunrise and take a leisurely stroll along the shore.

afternoon
:

Visit the local fish market to see the fresh catches of the day and enjoy a lunch of grilled tilapia at a nearby eatery.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset boat ride on Lake Victoria, taking in the stunning views and local wildlife.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Participate in a traditional fishing activity with local fishermen to learn about their techniques and lifestyle.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Ruma National Park for a guided safari experience to see the unique wildlife.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner of traditional Luo cuisine at a local restaurant and perhaps listen to live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🚕Taxi ride within town$2
🛍️Souvenir or local handicraft$3
🥤Bottle of water$1
🍺Local beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and a serene environment.
  • Rich cultural experiences with local traditions.
  • Affordable costs of living and dining.
  • Limited access to modern amenities and facilities.
  • Transportation can be challenging in rural areas.
  • Some areas may experience occasional safety concerns.
  • "Ong'ere" - Hello
  • "Asante" - Thank you
  • "Naki" - Please
  • "Wachoni" - How are you?
  • "Ning'ere" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Kendu Bay

Visit one of these nice places.

Kendu Bay Beach

A stunning location to capture the beauty of Lake Victoria, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Ruma National Park

Wildlife photography opportunities abound in this park, where you can capture various species in their natural habitat.

Local Fishing Boats

Colorful fishing boats dotting the shoreline provide vibrant and culturally rich subjects for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kendu Bay

Kendu Bay offers a delightful culinary experience influenced by its lakeside location and local culture. The region is known for its fresh fish dishes, especially tilapia, and a variety of traditional Luo cuisine.

Kendu Bay Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Tilapia

Freshly caught tilapia grilled to perfection, often served with ugali or vegetables.

Must-Try!

Omena

Small silver fish that are dried and cooked in various ways, a popular local delicacy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kendu Bay Fish Market

A bustling market where locals sell freshly caught fish and other seafood delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kendu Bay has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The rainy season (March to May) brings heavy downpours, while the dry season (June to October) offers cooler weather and less humidity. The hottest months are typically November to February, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 30°C (86°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm greeting is essential; a handshake followed by a friendly smile is customary.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by using appropriate titles and gestures.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, to show respect for local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kendu Bay is generally safe for tourists; however, it is essential to remain vigilant and take standard safety precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when traveling at night. It is advisable to consult local guides for safety advice during outdoor activities.

Tipping in Kendu Bay

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for guides; around 10-15% is customary for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile money services like M-Pesa are popular for transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (March - May)

Expect heavy rainfall, which can affect outdoor activities but also brings lush greenery to the landscape.

Dry Season (June - October)

Ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing, with cooler temperatures and less humidity.

Hot Season (November - February)

Temperatures can be high, making it perfect for swimming but ensure to stay hydrated.

Festive Season (December)

A time for local celebrations and cultural events, providing a unique opportunity to experience local traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Kendu Bay at Night

Kendu Bay's nightlife is relatively laid-back, with a few local bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. Most nightlife activities center around socializing with locals, enjoying traditional music, and experiencing cultural performances. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with residents.

Hiking in Kendu Bay

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ruma National Park Trails

Various trails in Ruma National Park offer hiking opportunities with views of unique wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Kisii Hills Trail

This trail provides a challenging hike with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Kendu Bay by plane.

Kisumu International Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Kendu Bay, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, providing a gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kendu Bay is relatively walkable, especially around the town center and the beachfront. Many attractions, restaurants, and markets are within walking distance. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Luo Community

The Luo are the predominant ethnic group in the area, known for their rich cultural heritage and fishing traditions.

Kisii Community

A significant number of Kisii people reside in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and economic activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely popular among the youth, with local teams playing in various regional leagues.

Fishing Competitions

Fishing competitions are common, celebrating the local fishing culture and attracting participants from surrounding areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kendu Bay is generally light, with most transportation occurring via bicycles, motorcycles, and walking. Public transportation options include matatus (shared minibuses) that connect to nearby towns. Visitors should be prepared for occasional potholes and rural road conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kendu Bay.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

There are vegetarian dishes available, but it's advisable to inform the restaurant staff about dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Kendu Bay are basic, with a few clinics available for minor ailments. For serious medical emergencies, it may be necessary to travel to larger towns like Homa Bay or Kisii. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance and carry essential medications.

Discover Kenya

Read more in our Kenya 2025 Travel Guide.

Kenya Travel Guide