Homa Bay

Homa Bay County lies on the south-eastern shore of Lake Victoria, in the region known as Kavirondo Gulf. The county is named after Homa Bay, a large inlet of the lake. It is the homeland of the Luo people and has a rich cultural heritage. The landscape combines lakeside beaches, rolling hills, and the distinctive Homa Peninsula. Attractions include Ruma National Park (with Kenya's only remaining population of roan antelope), Rusinga Island (fossil sites and the tomb of Tom Mboya), and Mfangano Island with its ancient rock art.

The dry months of December to March and June to September offer the best conditions. April to June is wet but the landscape is lush and Lake Victoria views are dramatic.

Main roads from Kisumu to Homa Bay and Mbita are paved. Ferries connect Mbita Point to the islands. Matatus and buses connect all main towns. A 4WD is useful for reaching rural areas and Ruma National Park.

• Homa Bay — the county capital, a lakeside town with fish market and beaches.
• Mbita Point — ferry terminal connecting to Rusinga and Mfangano islands.
• Kendu Bay — lakeside town with a fishing industry and calm beaches.
• Oyugis — market town in the highlands.
• Ndhiwa — agricultural centre.
• Mfangano Island — Lake Victoria island with ancient rock art, beautiful scenery, and eco-lodges.
• Rusinga Island — island connected by causeway, with Miocene fossil sites, Tom Mboya's tomb, and lakeside resorts.
• Ruma National Park — wildlife park with roan antelope, buffalo, and rich birdlife.

Fresh tilapia and Nile perch from Lake Victoria are the star, served grilled or fried with ugali and kachumbari. Luo traditional dishes include kuon (ugali), rech (fish), nyuka (vegetables), and chamnyaka.

The Luo have a rich tradition of music (benga), dance, and oral history. Rusinga Island is associated with the politician Tom Mboya. The annual Homa Bay Fishing Festival celebrates the lake's fishing heritage.

• Boat trips on Lake Victoria from Mbita Point, Kendu Bay, and Homa Bay.
• Ruma National Park game drives — see the rare roan antelope.
• Rusinga Island fossil sites — the island has yielded important Miocene primate fossils.
• Mfangano Island rock art — ancient red-ochre paintings in caves.
• Birdwatching — Lake Victoria shores attract pelicans, fish eagles, and herons.