Saiwa Swamp National Park

An authentic haven for nature lovers, Saiwa Swamp National Park is nature’s private reserve. The quiet swamp waters beneath the boardwalk network set amidst the swirling reeds and bulrushes is home to the rare and endangered semi- aquatic Sitatunga antelope and a realm for the rare De Brazza monkey. Within this tropical wetland and mosaic of riverine forest, sedges and acacia woodlands, a lot of botanical work identifies different tree species in Saiwa by marble stone labeling and numbering. Visitors are delighted to identify Kenya’s infamous Meru’s ‘Khat’ tree in the Saiwa wild that towers tall above the canopy. A fringing dense rushes and grass beds on this swamp is such a scenery. Bird life is abundant. As one of the smallest parks in Kenya, it prides itself in over 372 species Avi-fauna and classifies itself as one of the Important Bird Area (IBA) site in the country. The park offers an interesting mix of forest and swamp vegetation and extraordinary diverse plant habitat and offers a conducive environment for academic environmental research. It prides itself as a doctorate study site for Kenya’s first deputy president – HE Dr. William S. Ruto.

By Road:Saiwa Swamp National Park is 22km from Kitale town .At Kipsaina junction, a 5km “murram” road leads to the only park entrance, Saiwa gate.

By Air: Served by the Kitale airstrip, 27km away from the park

When to go

All year round,Daily 6.00 am -7.00 pm including public holidays. No entry is allowed on foot and visitors will not be allowed entry after 6.15pm

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.

Saiwa Swamp National Park

Citizen

Resident

Non-Resident

Adults

KSH

Child

KSH

Adult

KSH

Child

KSH

Adult

USD

Child

USD

300

125

300

125

MODE OF PAYMENT: Through Ecitizen (https://kws.ecitizen.go.ke/ ) via MPesa, Visa Card, RTGS ,Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

Special Services/Activities:

Security/Guided tour per guide:

 Ksh. 1,720 – up to 4 hours

 Ksh. 3,015 – Over 4 hours

Vehicle Charges per Day:

No. of Seats KSH.

 Less than 6 seats 300

 6-12 seats 1,030

 13-24seats 2,585

 25-44 seats 4,050

 45 seats and above 5,000

Cool shaded and compact, the park offers an ideal dawn walk
An enchanting leafy cernithological,
Botanical safaris and revitalizing weekend away from the bustle of town.
The park offers an interesting mix of forest and swamp vegetation and extraordinary diverse plant habitat.
Dominated by bulrushes and other aquatic plants, Saiwa Swamp is fed by the SaiwaRiver which winds its way through the wetland, and by run-off from the sorrounding riverine forest.

The definite calm and serenity of the swampy park as you walk down the boardwalk isle will refresh your senses as you enjoy distinct sights, sounds and the heartbeat of the wild. The meandering nature trails are simply breathtaking. The bird menu is diverse and exceptional and birders will ultimately be spoilt. Be on the lookout for the Grey and brown crown crane that stands about one meter tall in the swamp in the company of her chicks as they breed and roost on the swamp. Also present are the lesser jacana, grey heron and the African Black Duck. The forest shelters the Narina trogons, collared and orange-tufted sunbird, yellow bishop, Hatlaub’s marsh widow bird and the Noisy Ross’s turaccos. The park harbors and protects its resident Sitatunga antelope population that is uniquely adapted for the wetland environment. Look out for the nocturnal pottos who are relatives of the bush baby, spotted-necked otters, giant forest squirrels, colobus monkey, bush buck and duiker. Tree Top Hut is a great accommodation choice for honeymooners who just want to get away from everything and everybody as they lay their foundation on a great new chapter of their lives. It’s a secret spot for couples who want to bond and enjoy each other’s company. The park offers an Education/information center and an ample conferencing hall is available for organized groups. This destination is also a suitable site for team building. Enjoy camping under a starry wild night and picnicking if you just want to be in the park for just a day trip.

Set in the quietude of nature, KWS offers a modest and wide range of self-catering accommodation options targeting the budget traveler. Whether you are looking to get away from the daily grind of life, away from the hustle and bustle of life in the city in the serenity of the bush, or just to soak in your senses and reconnect with nature, KWS bandas and guesthouses offer the perfect ambience.

Saiwa Swamp National Park offers the following;

Tree Top Hut

As the name depicts the house is set on top of Swahili’s mti wa zeituni

Accommodation; 1unit, 2pax

Consists of two single beds.

Amenities;

Electricity is provided, beddings and bathroom and toiletries. No kitchen facilities are provided. Guests are advised to carry already cooked food. Alternatively, they can prepare food from the nearby campsite kitchen hut.

Rates;

Citizens;Residents: Ksh. 2,500

Non-Residents: US$ 50

Camping:

Public Campsite:

 Sitatunga – Set upon an open grass carpet, 2 beautiful

round thatched huts overlook the swamp. The camp is electric powered and also visitors can enjoy a bonfire.

For this category, standard amenities are provided; water, toilet/bathroom and kitchen area. Public campsites do not require prior booking.

*Reservation of bandas/guesthouses and special campsites should be done through the park warden or through KWS headquarters reservations desk; reservations@kws.go.ke

*Prevailing camping rates apply per person per day for both special and public campsites including other park charges.

Telephone: 0789312901

Toll Free: 0800 597 000

WhatsApp: +254 (0) 726 610508

Email: customerservice@kws.go.ke

Postal Address:

The Senior Warden,

P.O. Box 4506,

Kitale.