Mfangano Island Lodge — Hotel in Mfangano Island ward

Our initial itinerary was to fly to Mfangano Island however the airstrip was apparently not operational, so we had to land at Rusinga Island. The Rusinga Island Lodge is right by the airstrip and you are met by Mfangano Island Lodge staff, Captain John and Michael, and taken to the lodge jetty for a transfer by boat. This takes between 45 and 60 minutes depending on the state of Lake Victoria. There was a strong wind against us on the way out so it took the longer time. You arrive at the lodge’s private jetty.||You arrive at the lodge jetty and taken in to the main building for check in, briefing and introduction to the staff who would be looking after us. We were told the restaurant opening times and that all we had to do is to turn up. I initially thought it a bit odd that the restaurant was set with one table with 16 places. I don’t recall seeing the person who gave the briefing again. You are then taken to your room.||There are I think 7 rooms and two honeymoon suites. The rooms are situated on either side of the main area of the lodge, with varying lengths of walking to get to them. We had booked one of the honeymoon suites but were in fact shown to room 5, which is nearest to the main area of the lodge. Talking to staff we found out that one of the honeymoon suites had a leaking roof and the other was booked by someone who very regularly led groups and such a group of 16 was arriving later that day. Given this person’s status they kept the other honeymoon suite. ||To be fair room 5 has the best view out of all the other standard rooms. So that is my one criticism as to why this was not explained at the briefing? Yes, we paid extra but that aspect can be sorted out later through agents. It was disappointing not to get what you had booked. However I think I am pragmatic enough to understand the situation and knowing the financial aspect would be sorted it was just best to accept things and enjoy our stay.||We asked for a couple of sun loungers to be brought up so we could sit outside room as there was space, and with careful maneuver you can be in the shade most of the day. This may not be possible with other rooms .||The room was clean and what might be said to be basic but had everything you would need. The shower area is huge and there was ample hot water. The bathroom area has it’s own curtains around it for privacy during the day when the main room curtains would be open.||Electricity is not on all the time. Generally it’s on in the morning and evenings so you might want to charge anything up before arrival, although I did charge a mobile phone and a camera battery during our stay.||Due to the group we did not eat in the restaurant but outside in the open air, which was actually very nice, some meals were on the jetty. We had to nominate a time for each meal at the end of the previous one, but that was not an issue.||The food was good, fish is very regular, not surprisingly. The portions, particularly the salads, were quite large. We did ask for portions to be reduced a bit. Normally there was a choice of the main course which you were asked about at the end of the previous meal. You are asked about any allergies etc.||There is pool area with some sun loungers etc. At your own risk you can swim in the lake, it appears there are no crocodiles anywhere near the area, but hmm…||The lodge provides some activities inc fishing, a bird walk and boat trip. The bird walk is led by Captain John and takes you out of the back of the lodge and along the road through the local village. That was very enjoyable, we walked for 2 hours and so worth taking water and sun screen. After that we met the boat and went for a trip on Lake Victoria inc round the Sacred Island. That was very relaxing with both parts you see different aspects of the island and local life.||At night the lake is lit up with lights from fishing boats and net markers.||There are a few vervet monkeys about but they keep their distance and the more people at the lodge the less you tend to see any. There is plenty of bird life, both in the grounds, on the lake shore and over the lake.||I have mentioned the 16 strong group, inc 4 young children. In such a small lodge it is just the case that such a group, not in any unpleasant way but just in the way things happen, rather take over the facilities. That did not really impact on us in any negative way.||Settling bills can be tried by card but the internet connection is not that good so it may be best to settle with cash, or certainly have enough cash if needed. We had full board so only the drinks were payable.||All the staff who looked after us were friendly and helpful and it was very nice that they all turned up, inc the Chef, to see us off.||The way back was as the way in by boat to Rusinga Island Lodge and the flight out. ||A relaxing place to stay with little disturbance, we chose this instead of a beach resort and where very happy...

I knew it was gonna be an awesome stay from the moment the team picked us from Nyakweri station from the water's. Thank you Joseph and Joash for such a warm welcome and a great first impression. I can not compare the room with any others they have a touch of our African heritage that sparkles your heart. The food delicious and for every meal we never missed an option of fish. The servers always giving a extra touch as they made sure you are enjoying every meal. Always on the stand by to help, and maintain your table. George and the rest of the team I may not remember all the names all your service, we appreciate. Thank you for doing our laundry. Mr. Stephen, the manage you are such a leader and have a very supportive team there. Like we said we will come back and this time keep the big family room...

This is really a hidden gem. It is one of the best lodges that I have been to in Kenya. The location is remote but extremely beautiful. The rooms are spacious and they have a honeymoon suite, a family suite and a few more rooms that can accommodate different family sizes. The food is excellent, service is top notch. The tranquility is superb, you can just get lost listening to the waves splashing against the rocks and the sereneness of the lake is unmatched. Although getting to the lodge is a journey, it's worth the effort and time. There is a small swimming pool to keep the kids busy and hiking and walking activities to keep oneself active. For the quietest rooms go for No.2 and No.3, but if you don't mind the noise of the waves and are a family or a group then go for...