Mfangano Island is known for its ancient rock art, possibly 2,000 years old and thought to have been created by early forager-hunters, the Twa people. The Twa people, also known as Batwa or pygmies, have been described as the forgotten tribe who live in the Great Lakes region of Africa. Three sites on Mfangano Island have legends attached to them; one or even two of the sites are still in use. The art in the sites comprises almost solely of sets of concentric circles in two or all three of the colours red, white and black. The paintings are typical of what is sometimes termed “Twa” art that stretches from northern Kenya in a broadening trail southwards to spread across Africa from Northern Mozambique to Angola, and to cease north of the Zambezi River.
Sacred Sites: A total of 36 different types of sacred sites exist in Mfangano Island of which 19 are still intact and can be located. Though the other 17 can be described as extinct, their history is still told today by elders. Most of the sites are linked to rain making traditions and represents the link between the people and God. The local people believe that the sacred groves for example, warn the people of the impending danger, usually by producing a distinct noise or by having a fog overcast. The community would then acknowledge the warnings and appease the spirits through offerings of animal sacrifices. The sacred forests are also ancestral landmarks that instill discipline and unity among the local people, the Abasuba.
On this tour, you will visit Mfangano Island, the sacred sites and the Rock Paintings.
Inclusions
- Transport to Mfangano Island from Homabay. This tour originates from Homabay.
- Tour Guide
- A bottle of water
Exclusions
- Transport to and from Homabay
- Lunch
Price
- Kenyan Local Tourist Kshs 4000
- International Tourist Kshs 7000