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Meet Brian, one of our travel experts for Kenya.
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Brian has always nurtured his passion for travel in his spare time. He's traveled the world, visiting over 40 countries.
Over time, this passion grew to the point where he began to search for opportunities to work in the travel industry. He's been an African Specialist at Mango Safaris since early 2006.
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Lake Victoria Lodge
A private retreat in one of Africa's most remote and historical corners, Rusinga Island Lodge nestles on Rusinga Island, in the legendary Lake Victoria - the world's second largest freshwater lake and destination of many intrepid 19th century explorers - in Western Kenya.
Photo copyright Rusinga Island Lodge.
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Overview
A place of infinite beauty to calm the mind and rejuvenate the body, Rusinga provides a welcome break before, during or after a rigorous and exciting East African safari. Exuding an atmosphere of serene tranquility, Rusinga's manicured lawns stretch to Lake Victoria's edge.
Rusinga's grounds, with its exotic trees, are haven for a myriad of bird species – many of which are unique to this small corner of Kenya. These spacious grounds offer a safe environment for children to release energy and the more active to catch up on exercise.
Rusinga's renowned hospitality; delicious home-grown, home-cooked food; and indulgent accommodation combine to offer an ideal base from which to explore other areas of East Africa.
A private retreat in one of Africa's most remote and historical corners, Rusinga Island Lodge nestles on Rusinga Island, in the legendary Lake Victoria - the world's second largest freshwater lake and destination of many intrepid 19th century explorers - in Western Kenya. Rusinga is 80 miles due west of the famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve.
With their high-thatched roofs, spacious verandahs overlooking lush gardens and the sparkling waters of Lake Victoria beyond, Rusinga's accommodation comprises six self-contained cottages plus a family cottage with twin room and double room with an interconnecting door.
Bedrooms are either double (with a king size bed) or twin (with two queen size beds) with a living area and dressing area. Oversized, en-suite bathrooms have double basins and walk-in, 'soup-plate' showers. Combining intimate charm and privacy with the highest level of personal comfort, the cottages are crafted from local materials.
As well as a variety of watersports – waterskiing, donutting, knee-boarding – there are also mountain bikes. A circumnavigation around Rusinga Island by mountain bike not only affords welcome exercise, but also an opportunity to meet the local community and watch life go by on this small island.
Nearby Mfangano Island is home to ancient rock art, untouched for centuries. A short boat ride across to the island is followed by a hike up to the caves housing the rock art where guides expand on the lives of the early cave-dwelling artists. A gentler stroll can be taken to visit the archaeological sites close to Rusinga Island Lodge. For those keen on jogging, as the island has no dangerous animals, it's possible to take a jog on the airstrip or further afield.
Rusinga's Wellness Spa offers a nurturing retreat in which to unwind and relax, blending peace, personal indulgence and relaxation. The Spa's treatments include aroma massages, Indian head massage, Spa manicures & pedicures. Rusinga's lawns are dotted with 'lounging' furniture under gracious trees – relax with a good book or simply recline and listen to the abundant birdlife.
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 Jackson's 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 bush breakfast in Ruma is something very special.
Guests wishing to visit Ruma leave the lodge by speedboat at 6.30am. After a 40-minute boat ride on the lake (early mornings are usually calm on the lake), a Rusinga 4x4 will meet you at the lakeshore for the short 30-minute drive to the park. En route you'll see typical Luo homesteads. After exploring the park and its inhabitants enjoy a hearty bush breakfast before heading back to the lakeshore for the return boat ride to the lodge, arriving around lunchtime.
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