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Hippo Point and Marshes

Kisumu  >  Kenya

Hippo Point and the surrounding marshes are a great spot to see many of Lake Victoria's specials - including Papyrus Gonolek and Papyrus Canary.

Added* by Timothy Boucher
Most recent update 24 huhtikuu 2025

Description

Hippo Point and the surrounding marshes are a great spot to see many of Lake Victoria's specials. Get there early (6:30 am) before traffic starts up, to see much sought after species - including Papyrus Gonolek and Papyrus Canary. There are also numerous other birds including Red-chested Sunbird, Woodland Kingfisher, Black-headed Gonolek, and many weavers.

Details

Access

Hippo Point and the surrounding marshes are located on the southern outskirts and waterfront of the town of Kisumu. There is parking at the point, or you can easily walk there from a nearby hotel. The walking is easy on the road. Start at 6:30am for most of the specials - a morning will get you a very good selection of birds.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Scattered trees and bushes , Reedbeds

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

No

Good birding season

All year round

Route

Unpaved road , Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

There is a resident guide - Titus - who can be found in the area most mornings. He can also be reached using Whatsapp at +254 724 946043. He is absolutely terrific, knows all the birds (sight and sound) in the area and where to find them, including the sought after specials.

Don't bother going into the Impala "Wildlife" area - it's expensive and not worth it (caged animals and no unusual birds).

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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