Kisumu Main Market

Top choice in Kisumu


Kisumu’s main market is one of Kenya’s most animated markets and certainly one of its largest – it spills out onto the surrounding roads. If you’re curious, or just looking for essentials such as suits or wigs, it’s worth a stroll around.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kisumu attractions

1. Kisumu Museum

0.46 MILES

The town museum is fairly old fashioned, but includes a lot of information. It's best enjoyed with a guide, who can give you more background on the three…

2. Impala Sanctuary

1.67 MILES

On the road to Dunga, this 1-sq-km sanctuary is home to a small impala herd and provides important grazing grounds for local hippos. In addition to the…

3. Ndere Island National Park

18.57 MILES

Gazetted as a national park in 1986, this 4.2-sq-km island has never seen tourism take off. It is forested and very beautiful, housing a variety of bird…

4. Kakamega Forest Reserve

21.61 MILES

Kakamega Forest Reserve is the more degraded area of the forest, yet it's the more popular area with tourists. The five-hour return hike to Lirhanda Hill…

5. Crying Stone of Ilesi

23.52 MILES

The Crying Stone of Ilesi is a local curiosity perched on a ridge 3km south of town. The formation, looking like a solemn head resting on weary shoulders,…

6. Lirhanda Hill Lookout

23.84 MILES

Depending on where you're staying, it can be about a five-hour return hike to Lirhanda Hill. Being there for sunrise or sunset is highly recommended.

7. Market

26.69 MILES

It's worth poking your nose into the town’s municipal market. It operates every day but is at its loudest on Saturday and Wednesday mornings when, as if…