Rusinga Island

Rusinga Island is an inhabited island in Lake Victoria, within Homa Bay County, Kenya, noted for its archaeological and palaeontological sites. The island is part of the lake’s western archipelago and has been the focus of scientific fossil recovery.

Scientific excavations carried out in the 20th century recovered Miocene fossils, including early primate remains, that played a role in studies of early ape evolution. The island has long-standing Luo communities and a history linked to Lake Victoria fishing and transport.

Rusinga sits in the northeastern arm of Lake Victoria off the Homa Bay County shoreline, reachable by short boat trips from mainland landing points such as Mbita.

• Access by boat: Situated in Lake Victoria off the Homa Bay County mainland and reachable by boat from Mbita and other lakeshore points.
• Palaeontological significance: Known for important mid-Miocene fossil discoveries including primate remains collected by palaeontologists in the 20th century, which contributed to understanding early ape evolution.

What to See #

• Fossil localities: Scattered fossil-bearing outcrops and dig sites on the island where mid-Miocene vertebrate fossils, notably early primates, have been recovered by palaeontologists.
• Villages and shore access: Local villages and shoreline settlements that form the island's inhabited areas and provide boat access and basic services for visitors.