Mfangano Island Camp

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Shaded by giant figs trees on the banks of Lake Victoria, Mfangano Island Camp is an island of tranquility and luxury accommodations.

The camp has six lovely cottages situated right on the lakeshore. Each recently renovated cottage is built in the Luo tribal style of banana thatch-roofs and natural clay. Spacious and airy bedrooms come with double or twin romantic four-poster beds with nearly 360-degree views of beautiful Lake Victoria. The en suite bathrooms come with a shower. There is even a honeymoon suite for special occasions. For added privacy, each cottage enjoys its own veranda with a lake view and comfy sunbeds for lounging around.

The camp is ideally set on a lush island on world-famous Lake Victoria, the world’s second largest freshwater lake and reputed source of the River Nile. Its verdant shores are lined with banana trees and friendly fishing villages. The deep blue waters are full of perch and playful otters, while the banks are home to many bird species including cormorants, egrets, fish eagles, kingfishers, pelicans, and sunbathing lizards.

Activities here are centered around the lake. Sailing trips float along the turquoise water in a traditional lateen rig sailing boats. Anglers can fly-fish from the jetty or use baited-hooks from the camp’s twin-engine fiberglass hull for a chance at catching perch or tilapia. The camp’s resident ornithologist leads walking and boat tours to observe some of the 350-bird species around the island. Cultural visits explore the small Luo fishing villages for a chance to play football with the locals, learn from the tribal elders, or sample local foods. Mountain biking lets guests explore the island with a guide or on their own. For some history or rock art, Mawanga Cave and Kwitone shelter have red and white geometric symbols that are 1,000 to 4,000 years old.

The camp’s dining room and lounge feature panoramic views of the lake. Meals include fresh salads from the camp’s own garden as well as freshly caught Nile Perch served with crusty bread and chilled wine. Private candlelit dinners can also be arranged on the jetty overlooking the water. The horizon swimming pool looks over the lake for a relaxing afternoon in the heat of the day. There is even a massage room for soothing away the tensions of reality in this island retreat.