Saiwa Swamp National Park is located in Trans-Nzoia County near Kitale. It is the smallest national park in Kenya covering an area of 3 km² and is under the custody of the Kenya Wildlife Service.
It provides habitat for the endangered Sitatunga antelope, a rare Aquatic antelope.
Saiwa Swamp National Park is within tropical wetlands and its habitat consists of riverine forest, sedges, acacia woodlands, fringing dense rushes, grass beds, and lovely terrestrial orchids.
The Saiwa Swamp is fed by the Saiwa River.
Saiwa Swamp National Park attractions
Why is Saiwa Swamp National Park popular? Here is why?
- It is home to the endangered Sitatunga antelope, a rare aquatic antelope
- Riverine forest
- Terrestrial Orchids that is quite lovely and variety of trees
- Abundant birdlife
- A variety of reptiles and amphibians
- The Saiwa River
Saiwa Swamp National Park Animal/Wildlife
The park is home to the Sitatunga antelope and the rare De Brazza’s monkey.
It has many species of birds. Aquatic/water birds include the Lesser Jacana, Grey Heron, and African Black Duck. Those housed by the forest include; the Narina Trogons, Sunbird, Yellow Bishop, Hatlaub’s marsh widow Bird, and the Noisy Ross’s Turaco.
Reptiles and amphibians also dominate here which include; the Frog, Toad, Tortoise, Lizard, Snakes (Rock Python and Forest Cobra), Chameleon, among others.
Insects include; Dragonflies, Butterflies, Ants among others.
Things to do
You can participate in a number of activities here such as
- Bird watching
- Game Viewing
- The botanical safaris-a mix of forest and swamp vegetation and extraordinary plant habitat
- Photography
- Holding corporate and special events
Park Climate & Weather
Saiwa Swamp has a warm and humid climate with high rainfall throughout the year with high concentration from April to November.
The annual average temperature is about 25°C.
When to Visit
You can visit all year but December to March much preferable. It is open all year round including public holidays
Travel Tips
Here are the things to carry and wear on this trip.
- Insect repellent especially for the Mosquitoes
- 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 Road- the park is 22 km from Kitale Town through Saiwa Gate
By Air-using Kitale airstrip, 27 km from the park
Saiwa Swamp National Park Entrance Fees
The park Entry Fees are as follows;
Citizens (KES): Adult 350 Child 200
Residents (KES): Adult 600 Child 350
Non-residents (USD): Adult 25 Child 15
Park Contacts
You can contact Kenya Wildlife Service through
Mobile No: +254 789 312 901
Email: [email protected] or [email protected] or [email protected]
Saiwa Swamp National Park Hotels and Lodges
Hotels and Lodges near Saiwa Swamp include;
- African Yard
- Easy Sleep Guest House
- Engo Airport Resort
- Mid Africa Hotel
- Lodwar Homes and Villas
- One Tanna Residency
- Muremba Retreat Kitale
Happy Visit!
See also other Kenya National Parks
