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Lake Victoria, Kenya

Rusinga Island Lodge

 — Mango's view

A private retreat in one of Africa's most remote and historical corners, Rusinga Island Lodge offers the ideal respite before, between or after the rigors of any East African safari. The Lodge is in Western Kenya, 80 miles due west of the famous Masai Mara game reserve, on Rusinga Island, Lake Victoria, the world's second largest freshwater lake.

With their high thatched roofs, spacious patios looking out over the lush gardens and the sparkling Lake Victoria beyond, Rusinga Island Lodge's accommodation consists of 6 individual cottages and 1 family cottage comprising a twin room and double room with interconnecting door. Each cottage is ensuite and has its own verandah overlooking the lake. Bedrooms are either twin (with 2 queen size beds) or double (with 1 king size bed). Bathrooms are spacious with double sink and 'soup plate' showers.

Combining intimate charm and privacy with the highest levels of personal comfort, the cottages are made from stone, wood and grass thatching and decorated with elegant fabrics. Electricity is provided by both generator and inverter power offering an electrical supply 24-hours a day.

Part of Rusinga Island Lodge's unique charm lies in its gracious hospitality, personalized service and fine cuisine. Each guest's stay is tailored specifically to their individual needs, with breakfast and lunch served al fresco on the lawns overlooking Lake Victoria. Sumptuous dinners are served in Fish Eagle house or candlelit on the jetty or by the pool.

Life at Rusinga Island Lodge revolves around the lake and the region's birds. The Lodge is truly a bird lover's paradise. The well-watered park-like grounds are home to more than 369 species of local and migratory birds, many not found in other parts of Kenya. The nearby Bird Islands, a short boat ride from Rusinga Island Lodge, are one of the most important breeding sites for water birds on Lake Victoria. Fishing is a big activity at Rusinga. Troll for enormous Nile perch along the shores and in the shallow waters of Lake Victoria, or cast for tilapia in the evening from Rusinga Island Lodge's superb jetty. Both fish make delicious eating and the kitchen is happy to cook your catch for you.

Nearby Ruma National Park is one of Kenya's most unusual and beautiful national parks. The last surviving group of roan antelope in Kenya can be seen here - a large antelope with magnificent black and white facial markings and swept-back horns. Other special animals include the Jacksons Hartebeest and Rothschild Giraffe. Also seen in abundance are oribi, bohor reedbuck, impala, topi, waterbuck and buffalo. Leopards may also be sighted. Due to the remoteness of the park, it is unlikely that guests from Rusinga Island Lodge will see another visitor.

A short walk behind Rusinga Island Lodge brings you to the site where Mary Leakey found Proconsul Heseloni in 1948 - the last common ancestor of the great apes and man. This find caused a sensation at the time and made worldwide headlines. Fossil remains dating back 18 million years can be seen scattered about on the surface.

Includes: All meals, soft drinks, house wines, beers, safari activities & laundry