Ndere Island National Park is located in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria. Winam Gulf is an extension of northeastern Lake Victoria into western Kenya and is connected to Lake Victoria by Rasanga Channel.
It is close to Kisumu Impala Sanctuary and is under the administration and protection of the Kenya Wildlife Service.
Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second largest freshwater lake in the world touching three East Africa Countries namely; Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Lake Victoria is wide and shallow (80 m deep) and its main source of water is rainfall with rivers (e.g. Kagera River) and thousands of streams contributing to about 20% of the water. It is the source of the great River Nile that runs to the
This Lake supports plant life around hence the thriving of Ndere Island N
Lake Victoria habitat consists of the lake, indigenous forest, swampy papyrus areas, grassland, and rocky area.
Ndere Island National Park is widely known for being a haven for birds and for providing scenic views of the Homa Hills, Mageta Island, and glimpses of Kampala, Uganda’s capital.
The park is mostly covered in grassland.
Ndere Island National Park Attractions
Why is Ndere Island National Park popular? Here is why.
- It is a haven for birds
- The park is predominantly covered by grassland which during flowering takes a brown colour. Thus, the top of Ndere Island is brownish.
- It also covered by indigenous tree species and shrubs
- A variety of wildlife
- The air and lake breeze provides freshness and buoyancy feeling
- It is scenic-offering stunning views of Homa hills and Kampala city in Uganda
Ndere Island National Park Animals/Wildlife
The park has a variety of wildlife which include; the Hippopotamus, Nile crocodile, Impala, Baboon, the endangered Sitatunga envelope, Zebra, Waterbuck, Warthogs, Snake (Python, Puff adder, Aardvark), Lizard, among others.
Many species of birds-over 100 species of birds- are also found here and include; the Kingfisher, African fish eagle, Black-headed G
There are also many species of fish and butterflies.
Things to do in the Area
You can indulge in a number of activities here:-
- Bird and butterfly watching
- Hiking
- Nature Walks-it is scenic here
- Game viewing
- Fishing
- Camping-Bao Campsite
Climate & Weather
The climate of this area is hot and humid and has an altitude of 1,149 m above sea level.
When to visit
You can visit all year round due to the climatic conditions of this area.
Travel Tips
Here are things to pack and wear on this visit
- Insect repellent especially for the Mosquito
- Camping equipment if you are camping
- Picnic items, drinking water, camera, and guide book
- Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to avoid the scorching sun
How to get there
By Water-you can take a speed boat direct from Kisumu City straight to Ndere Island.
By Road-you use the Kisumu-Bondo Road
By Air-using the Kisumu Airport from Nairobi
Ndere Island National Park Enty Fees
Entry fees are as follows;
Citizens (KES): Adult 215, Child 125
Residents (KES): Adult 300 Child 170
Non-residents (KES): Adult 22 Child 13
Park Contacts
You can reach to Kenya Wildlife Service through
Mobile No: +254 774 747 946
Email: [email protected]
Ndere Island National Park Hotels and Lodges
Hotels near Ndere Island include;
- Impala Lake Victoria Eco lodge
- Sovereign Hotel
- Pinecone Hotel
- Grand Loyal Swiss Hotel
- Le Savanna Country Lodge
- St. John Manor
- Vittoria Suites
- Acacia Premier Hotel
Happy Visit!
