Kisumu residents urged to explore local attractions ahead of World Tourism Day

Kisumu, Kenya — 2025-09-26 10:00 EAT. County officials and tourism stakeholders are encouraging residents to visit Kisumu’s parks, museums and lakefront sites this weekend, tying the push to World Tourism Day events and discounted entry offers.

The Latest

Kisumu County’s Department of Tourism announced a citywide “Know Your County” weekend featuring guided walks along the Lakefront Promenade, discounted museum entries, and community-led tours in Dunga and Impala areas. Private operators have aligned lake excursions and birding trips for families and student groups. The goal is to boost local footfall, support small tourism businesses and build pride in Kisumu’s cultural and natural heritage. Status: developing (events through Sunday).

Context in Brief

World Tourism Day (27 Sept) spotlights tourism’s role in jobs, culture and conservation. Kisumu—gateway to Lake Victoria—has invested in waterfront upgrades, market trails and community ecotourism (Dunga Boardwalk, Hippo Point, Impala Sanctuary). Officials say stronger domestic tourism cushions businesses from seasonal dips and external shocks.

What’s On (highlights)

• Kisumu Impala Sanctuary: discounted family tickets; morning guided nature walks.

• Dunga Boardwalk & Wetland: community birding tours, canoe experiences, sustainable fishing demos.

• Kibuye & Oile Markets Trails: food tastings, craft showcases, Luo culinary pop-ups.

• Kisumu Museum: extended hours with curated exhibits on Luo heritage and lake ecology.

• Lakefront Promenade/Hippo Point: sunset cruises; safety briefings; litter-free shoreline campaign

Voices and Stakeholders

• County Tourism Office: “World Tourism Day is our chance to rediscover Kisumu and keep local enterprises thriving,” said a county tourism coordinator.

• Community Guides (Dunga): “When residents come, revenue stays here—supporting conservation and youth jobs,” noted a tour lead.

• Operators: Boat associations pledged adherence to safety standards (life jackets, weather checks).

Practical Info for Residents

• Getting around: Use designated lake jetties; follow guide instructions; book licensed boats only.

• Best times: Early morning for birding; late afternoon for lake cruises/sunset views.

• What to carry: ID, cash/mobile pay, hat, water, sunscreen, closed shoes for boardwalks.

• Accessibility: Museum and promenade have step-free access points; check venue specifics ahead.

Risks and Safety

• Observe life-jacket rules on all watercraft.

• Stay on marked trails/boardwalks; avoid wetland edges after dark.

• Heed weather advisories (sudden winds on the lake).

• Keep lakefronts clean—pack out litter.

What We Don’t Know

• Final participation numbers over the weekend.

• Whether discounts will be extended beyond Sunday.

• Any temporary traffic diversions near waterfront venues.

Timeline

• Fri–Sun: Guided walks, museum discounts, market and lake tours.

• Sat (World Tourism Day): Flagship lakefront events; community clean-ups.

• Mon: County to publish visitation and revenue snapshot.

What to Watch

• Post-event report on visitor counts and SME earnings.

• Follow-on programming for school holidays (October).

• Progress on lakefront safety signage and waste management.