Saiwa Swamp National Park

Overview

Saiwa Swamp National Park, located in the scenic Rift Valley Province of Kenya near the town of Kitale in Trans-Nzoia County, is a hidden treasure and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists. As the smallest national park in Kenya, covering just 3 square kilometers, Saiwa Swamp is a unique and biodiverse protected area that offers an unforgettable wildlife experience. This pristine park was specifically established to protect the Sitatunga, a rare and elusive aquatic antelope, making it a top spot for wildlife enthusiasts and those interested in Kenya's conservation efforts.

The park's rich ecosystem supports a wide variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Visitors can also spot a range of reptiles, insects, and diverse plant species in this lush, swampy environment. The park's well-maintained boardwalks and observation towers provide excellent vantage points for photography, wildlife viewing, and peaceful nature walks. For those searching for a tranquil and off-the-beaten-path experience in Kenya, Saiwa Swamp National Park offers an intimate encounter with nature that is truly unmatched. Whether you're planning a Kenya safari or looking for unique travel destinations near Kitale, Saiwa Swamp should be on your list of must-see places in Kenya.

Park access

From Nairobi: The most common route is to drive from Nairobi, Kenya's capital city, to Saiwa Swamp National Park. The journey takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering a distance of about 450 kilometers (280 miles). You would typically take the A104 highway towards Nakuru, then branch off onto smaller roads towards Kitale and eventually Saiwa Swamp National Park.

From Eldoret: Another option is to drive from Eldoret, a major town in western Kenya. From Eldoret, you would drive towards Kitale and then continue to Saiwa Swamp National Park.

While Saiwa Swamp National Park doesn't have its own airstrip, charter flights can be arranged to nearby airstrips in Kitale or Eldoret. From there, you would need to arrange for ground transportation to the park.

Park gates

Saiwa Swamp National Park, being a relatively small and specialized park, doesn't have multiple gates or entrances like larger national parks. However, there is a main entrance or access point that visitors typically use to enter the park. This entrance provides access to the park's facilities and trail network.

Park attractions

The park is characterized by its swampy terrain, including a variety of wetland habitats such as marshes, reed beds, and open water bodies. One of the main attractions of Saiwa Swamp National Park is its population of sitatunga, a rare and elusive aquatic antelope species. The park is home to a significant population of sitatunga, making it one of the best places in East Africa to see these unique animals.

In addition to sitatunga, Saiwa Swamp National Park is also home to other wildlife species, including monkeys, otters, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can spot a wide range of birdlife in the park, including kingfishers, herons, ducks, and other waterfowl species.

Park wildlife

The park is characterized by its swampy terrain, including a variety of wetland habitats such as marshes, reed beds, and open water bodies. One of the main attractions of Saiwa Swamp National Park is its population of sitatunga, a rare and elusive aquatic antelope species. The park is home to a significant population of sitatunga, making it one of the best places in East Africa to see these unique animals.

In addition to sitatunga, Saiwa Swamp National Park is also home to other wildlife species, including monkeys, otters, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can spot a wide range of birdlife in the park, including kingfishers, herons, ducks, and other waterfowl species.