Migori County, situated in the former Nyanza Province of southwestern Kenya, shares borders with several neighboring regions. To the north lies Homa Bay County, while Kisii County is situated to the northeast. To the southeast, Migori County borders Narok County, while to the west and south, it shares a boundary with Tanzania. The county also boasts a shoreline along Lake Victoria to the west and shares a border with Uganda through Migingo Island in Lake Victoria. This strategic location lends Migori County cultural and economic significance, connecting it with neighboring regions and countries.
Thimlich Ohinga Archeological Site
This prehistoric site showcases rock dwellings, forts, and living spaces, offering a glimpse into the early lifestyle of the people who settled there during the early Luo migration and settlement in South Nyanza. Located approximately an hour’s drive from Migori Town, the site provides valuable insights into the historical and cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore the remnants of ancient settlements, gaining a deeper understanding of the early inhabitants’ way of life and their interactions with the environment. This archaeological site serves as a testament to the rich history and heritage of the area, attracting visitors keen to delve into its fascinating past.
Mugabo Beach in Muhuru-Bay
The Mugabo area and Muhuru Bay boast stunning boulders, some extending into the waters of Lake Victoria, creating a picturesque scenery. These boulders, dotting the lake’s clear blue waters, offer a captivating view, particularly along Mugabo Beach. To experience this scenic vista, visitors can hire boat rides from local fishermen at the Mugabo center. While prices may vary depending on negotiation skills, a typical one-hour ride around Mugabo Beach costs approximately Ksh 200 (about 2 dollars), providing an affordable opportunity to soak in the beauty of the surroundings from the water.
Lake Victoria
The western border of the county is traced by Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa. Along its shores, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities including fishing, boat rides, and soaking in the scenic views of the expansive waters. Whether casting a line for the day’s catch, cruising along the serene surface, or simply admiring the tranquil vistas, Lake Victoria offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy amidst its natural splendor.
Migori Airstrip
The Migori Airstrip, strategically located approximately 22 kilometers from the Kenya-Tanzania border and 8.3 kilometers from Migori town, underwent extensive rehabilitation by the Kenya Airport Authority. This initiative, carried out in two phases, included extending the runway from 1.1 kilometers to 1.2 kilometers and upgrading it to meet required standards. The inaugural flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Lichota Airstrip in Migori County took off on September 13, 2023. Operated by the Dash 8 Q-100 aircraft with a seating capacity of 37 passengers, local airline Skyward Express offers thrice-weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with affordable airfares starting from Ksh 7,600.
Sironga Beach
Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Victoria, Sironga Beach offers a tranquil haven for relaxation and leisure activities. With its peaceful ambiance and inviting waters, it provides an ideal setting to unwind and bask in the beauty of the lake. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing swim, a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or simply a moment of quiet contemplation, Sironga Beach promises a rejuvenating experience amidst the natural splendor of Lake Victoria.
Got Kwer Shrine
The tranquility of Got Kwer in Migori County, home to the Legio Maria sect headquarters, is palpable as visitors ascend the 20-acre hill where the shrine stands, drawing religious tourists from far and wide. Fondly known as Calvary, the site holds significance as the burial place of the sect’s founder, Ondeto. Featuring various shrines adorned with altars bearing images of Jesus, Mary, Ondeto, and Maria, the sect blends Catholicism with Luo cultural beliefs. Recent upgrades include a substantial stone structure nearing completion, serving as Ondeto’s tomb. Furthermore, street lights installed by both county and national governments illuminate the rocky terrain, fostering community vitality and enabling nocturnal prayers, while improved access roads enhance accessibility to the site.
Sori Karungu
Sori, a picturesque fishing village nestled along the shores of Lake Victoria, exudes charm with its stunning beachfront and abundance of fresh fish. Renowned for its idyllic coastline, Sori offers visitors the opportunity to bask in the beauty of its sandy shores and indulge in delicious, locally sourced seafood. Additionally, the village serves as a gateway to adventure, as visitors can embark on boat trips to explore the captivating nearby islands, immersing themselves in the rich natural and cultural heritage of the region.
Macalder Gold Mines
Macalder Gold Mines, situated in the Macalder area of Migori County, Kenya, are steeped in history, with gold mining activities dating back several decades. The site rose to prominence during the colonial era, as British explorers and exploiters tapped into Kenya’s gold resources. Visiting this area offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the intricacies of small-scale artisanal gold mining. From observing the mining techniques employed to gaining insights into the local community’s way of life, a visit to Macalder Gold Mines provides a glimpse into the rich mining heritage of the region.
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Nyumba ya Mungu & Mugabo Caves
In Muhuru Bay, Migori County, near the shores of Lake Victoria, lie two captivating sites: Nyumba ya Mungu and Mugabo caves, offering prime hiking opportunities. While Nyumba ya Mungu boasts a panoramic view of the lake from its elevated vantage point, Mugabo caves, though less frequented by tourists, provide a serene setting for solitude, meditation, and birdwatching amidst the rocky terrain. Perched atop the caves are expansive flat stones offering breathtaking vistas of Lake Victoria and the distant Migingo Island. Rich in Suba artifacts until the 1990s, these caves hold historical significance, adding to their allure as hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Gogo Falls
Gogo Falls, situated in the Lake Victoria Basin, holds significant archaeological importance, showcasing some of the earliest artifacts and evidence of domestic animal presence in the region. These findings contribute to our understanding of the pre-history surrounding Lake Victoria, shedding light on the cultural traditions of ancient inhabitants. The site, located on the Kanyamkago Hillside near a modern dam on the West Bank of the Kuja River, reveals pottery and iron artifacts, offering insights into the lives of early communities. Formed from pre-Cambrian rocks, the Kanyamkago Hills provide a backdrop to the natural beauty of Gogo Falls, which, though unaffected by the nearby dam, served as a vital fishing ground for local residents, owing to their accessibility and abundance of fish.
Migori County, with its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and proximity to Lake Victoria and neighboring countries, offers a rich tapestry of experiences, making it an enticing destination for tourists.
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