Saiwa Swamp National Park

Background Information
Saiwa is the smallest park in Kenya, only 3km2, that was established to protect the semi-aquatic Sitatunga antelope notable for its wide spread hooves which allow it to walk on the swamp. The park is enclosed by subsistence farming settlements. It is also home of the endangered De brazza monkey. Other species of mammals in the park include potto, spotted-necked otter, giant forest squirrel, black and white colobus monkey, bushbuck and the grey duiker. Despite its size, the park has over 400 species of birds in the forest and swamp vegetation.

 

ACCESS

• By Road: 22km from Kitale on the Kitale-Kapenguria tarmac road. At Kipsaina junction, a 5 km murram road leads to the only park entrance, Sinyerere gate.
• By Air: Served by Kitale airstrip, 22km away from the park.

PARK GATES

• Sinyerere gate

SIZE / LOCATION

• 2.9  Km2.
• Trans Nzoia District, Rift Valley Province

CLIMATE

• Typical of African wetland habitats, the wet and dry climate
• ranges from warm to cool and humid.
• Rainfall peaks around April, August and November to
•  deliver an annual  average of 1,250mm.

SMARTCARD REQUIRED?
Entry is by Cash only. Cash Receipts can be bought Saiwa Swamp Main Gate or from the KWS Hqs Cash Office. Proof of identification will be required

• Citizens – Valid Passport or National ID
• Residents – Valid Passport & re entry pass

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

• The endangered Sitatunga Antelope
• Bird watching
• Nature board walk & tree top house

WILDLIFE

• Includes Sitatunga, monkey, otter, genet cat, serval cat,
• Mongoose, bushbuck and ratel.

WHERE TO STAY

• In Park Accommodation
• KWS Self – Catering Accommodation:
• Treetops Hotel2
  • : Accommodates 2 people
• Camping Facilities
  • One serviced campsite available at the main gate.
  • Other campsites and accommodation are available at the nearby Sirikwa Tented Camp.

ACTIVITY OPTIONS

• Game viewing
• Camping

WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU

• Drinking water, picnic items and camping equipment if you intend to stay overnight. Also useful are: binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and guidebooks