Tsavo West

LAND OF LAVA, SPRINGS AND MAN-EATERS.

The joint mass of Tsavo West and Tsavo East National Parks forms one of the largest National Parks in the world and covers a massive 4% of Kenya’s total land area. Tsavo West, the more famous of the two, lies to the west of the Nairobi – Mombasa road, equidistant between Nairobi and Mombasa, and is painted on a sprawling canvas of endless skies, emerald hills, liquid lava flows, palm fringed rivers, teeming wildlife and sparkling oasis set against the unforgettable backdrop of mile upon mile of cloud shadowed African savannah.

Tsavo West
Tsavo Wes

WHAT T0 SEE

The Magic Mzima Springs

The lush, hippo-heaving pools of Mzima Springs, fed daily by 250 million litres of water gushing from the lava flows of the Chyulu Hills provide an oasis of green, an underwater hippo viewing chamber, two nature trails and some unique picnic spots.

Ancient Lands Of Lions And Lava

Tsavo achieved notoriety in 1898 when “the man-eaters of Tsavo 1 a pair of rogue man-eating lions, preyed gruesomely on the builders of the Uganda Railway. Today the Park is more famous for the numerous prides of maneless lions that patrol the plains and police the herbivore herds.

A Vibrant Volcanic Arena:

The molten lava that forms the Shetani Lava Flow spewed from the earth just 200 years ago and its fiery fury was thought by the local people to be the work of the Devil, hence its name which means ‘Devil’ in Swahili. The Chaimu Crater is an alternative volcanic arena (which can be climbed by those who feel fit enough), as are the imposing Ngulia Hills and the enchanting Chyulu Hills.

Finally, the eerie ‘Roaring Rocks‘ are named after the buzz of the cicadas that Inhabit them and the howl of the wind as it rushes past the sheer face of the scarp.

Poacher’s Lookout:

The Park abounds in panoramic vantage points from which to monitor the movement of the herds. The finest is Poacher’s Lookout, a rush- roofed hut, high on a hill with views to eternity.

Glorious Game Drives:

Tsavo offers some of the most magnificent game viewing in the world – vast herds of dust-red elephant, fat pods of hippo, giant crocodile, teeming herds of plains game, a fantasia of bird life and some magical flora.

You could also take in a visit to the Nguila Rhino Sanctuary where Tsavo’s growing population of endangered black rhino are inching their way back from the chasm of extinction that was forced upon them by rampant poaching in the 1960’s.

Alternatively you could explore beautiful Lake Jipe, which lies astride the Kenya -Tanzania border and is teeming with aquatic life. (Boat hire is available). Bird watching is also a major activity in the park.

WHERE T0 STAY (LODGES AND TENTED CAMPS).

Finch Hatton’s Tented Lodge. P.0. Box 24423, Nairobi.

Tel: (Nairobi) +254(20)310335/6 ~ Email: finchhattons@iconnect.co.ke

Voyager Safari Camp. Heritage Hotels, R0. Box 74888, Nairobi.

Tel: +254(20)4446651, 4447929 – Email: info@heritagehotels.co.ke

Kitani Severin Safari Camp. Severin Kenya, P.0. Box 82169, Mombasa.

Tel: +254(4l)48S00l/5 – Email: severin@severin-sea-|odge.com

Ngulia Safari Lodge. Kenya Safari Lodges and Hotels,

P.0. Box 42, Mtito Andei. Tel: +254 (43) 30091, 30000, 30140

Email: nguIialodge@kenya-safari.co.ke

Kilaguni Safari Serena Lodge. Serena Hotels, P.O. Box 48690, Nairobi.

Tel: +254(20)711077, 710511 – Email: mktg@serena.co.ke

SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION

Kamboyo Guest House: Formerly the Park Warden’s house, consisting of 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms; and a caretaker. Reservations are made through the warden or KWS HQ, Nairobi.

Rhino Valley: 6 self catering ’Bandas’or simple cottages.

Tsavo Park Hotel, P.0. Box 244 Voi, Kenya. Tel: + 254(147)30285

E-Mail: info@tsavoparkhotel.com

Kitani Safari Lodge: 8 newly renovated self-catering bandas. Severin Kenya,

P.0. Box 82169 Mombasa, Tel: +254(41)485001/5

Email: severin@severinsealodge.com

Lake Jipe Bandas: (on the shores of Lake Jipe). 3 Self – Catering bandas. Reservations through KWS HQ or the warden.

CAMPING

There are three public campsites (offering water and latrines only) as follows:

Kamboyo campsite (8km from Mtito Andei Gate) and Lake Jipe campsite (on the Lake Shore) and Chyulu campsite (1 km from Chyulu Gate). A wide selection of ’special’or private campsites (no facilities) also exist, and these must be booked in advance on an exclusive use basis. (Reservations through Warden or KWS HQ Nairobi.)

WHEN T0 G0

Tsavo West National Park is accessible by 2WD vehicle and also by air, all year round

WHAT T0 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.

PLEASE RESPECT THE WILDLIFE CODE

  • Respect the privacy ofthe wildlife, this is their habitat.
  • Beware ofthe animals, they are wild and can be unpredictable.
  • Don’t crowd the animals or make sudden noises or movements.
  • Don’t feed the animals, it upsets their diet and leads to human dependence.
  • Keep quiet, noise disturbs the wildlife and may antagonize your fellow visitors.
  • Stay in your vehicle at all times, except at designated picnic or walking areas.
  • Keep below the maximum speed limit (40 kph/25 mph).
  • Never drive off-road, this severely damages the habitat.
  • When viewing wildlife keep to a minimum distance of 20 meters and pull to the side of the road so as to allow others to pass.
  • Leave no litter and never leave fires unattended or discard burning objects.
  • Respect the cultural heritage of Kenya, never take pictures of the local people or their habitat without asking their permission, respect the cultural traditions of Kenya and always dress with decorum.
  • Stay over or leave before dusk, visitors must vacate the Park between 7.00pm – 6.00am unless they are camping overnight. Night game driving is not allowed.

HOW T0 GET THERE

By Road:

The Park (Mtito Andei Gate) is 232 km south of Nairobi and 250 km north of Mombasa on the main Nairobi – Mombasa Road.

Gates: The following entry gates exist: Tsavo, Lake Jipe, Mtito Andei (Kamboyo HQ), Chyulu, Maktau and Ziwani.

By Air:

There are 3 airstrips in the Park.

Open: Daily 6.00am – 7.00pm. Note: No entry is allowed on foot, and visitors will not be allowed into the Park after 6.15pm.

Current entry charges:

Obtainable via KWS HQ: Tel: +254(20)6000800, 6002345 Fax: +254(20)6007024

Email: marketing@kws.go.ke – website: www.kws.go.ke

‘Safari Card‘ required?

Entry is by SafariCard only. SafariCards may be loaded (but not obtained) at Mtito Andei Gate.

The Warden: P.0. Box 71, Mtito Andei. Tel: (Mtito Andei) +254(456)22120, 22483

 Shiba Hills National Park

THE PARADISE OF THE SABLE ANTELOPE

In 1903, the government gazetted the Shimba Hills as a National Forest. In 1924, they incorporated grassland areas into the forest. And they made several subsequent extensions to bring the Reserve to its present size. 1968, the government double gazetted the majority of the Reserve as the Shimba Hills National Reserve. Two smaller areas to the west, which adjoin the reserve and are almost entirely forested. Remain as Forest Reserves: Mkongani North and Mkongani West Forest Reserve.

Shiba Hills National Park
Shiba Hills National Park

The Shimba hills are a dissected plateau that ascends steeply from the coastal plains. 30 km south west of Mombasa and just south of Kwale town. The surrounding escarpment rises from around 120m to 300m across the bulk ofthe plateau and as high as 450m at Marere and Pengo hills.

All hills have views points, which offer splendid views of the hilly and forested countryside and faras the Indian Ocean and Chale lsland to the East and the Tsavo plains and Taita hills to the West.

What t0 See

Sable Antelopes

This very small park is also the sanctuary of the last breeding herd of indigenous sable antelope (Hippotragus niger roosevelt) in Kenya. People often consider this typical saber-horned antelope as the most beautiful of the large antelopes. You can spot them more easily on the central grasslands (Buffalo ridge) and around the old airstrip (near Longo forest).

Best time is early morning or late afternoon. Large and gregarious animals with long scimitar-shaped horns, they have a black colour coat marked with white stripes on their face and under-parts. ln the past, this African savanna antelopes were preys of many hunters and the species was almost extinct in Kenya.

A Unique Habitat For Elephants

The tropical forests of Shimba Hills National Park are a unique habitat for elephants of the Kenyan coast. The best place to spot them is in the Elephant lookout (Giriama Point) or along the forested area such as Longo forest, but herds can be seen all over the park as there is more than 600 elephants in the area. Note also that a fenced elephant corridor connects the Shimba Hills National Park to the Mwaluganje Forest and its elephant sanctuary

Wildlife ln The Park

Because vegetation cover is dense and the weather is very hot during the peak hours, animals rest in shades most of the day in the forest and may be hard to see. A visit very early in the morning and late afternoon is recommended.

Sheldrick Falls

To ensure safety, it is advisable to walk along the 2 km long way-marked footpath to the falls accompanied by a K.W.S. ranger. This is because there are occasional sightings of elephants or a few buffalos in the area. Remember to bring a hat and drinking water, as the path traverses steep uncovered grass plains and the weather can get very hot. David Sheldrick (1919-1977) discovered the falls.

It is a two hours pleasant walk from the parking area to this spectacular falls, which supply Tiwi and Diani with water. The track leading down to the cascade offers a scenic walk, count 45 minutes to descend and 1 hour to return. At the fall, don’t try to climb on the cliff as it is slippery but take a cold shower of25 meters high, swim safely in the cool water pool or even have a picnic by the cascades on sand.

The level ofthe pool depends ofthe season: during rain season, you can easily swim in the pool and there is one fall; during dry season, the pool is tiny and there are two spring waterfalls.

Ocean View Point & Giriama Point & other viewpoints

There are many viewpoints in Shimba Hills, all with views over the forested hills and the grass plains. These viewpoints are used to observe elephants so binoculars are a must. The eastern side of the park has more viewpoints than the western side and the scenery is more contrasted with forests and plains.

At the western side of the park, the Pengo hill (450 m) is the highest point of Shimba hills and on a very clear day, the Tsavo plains and the Taita Hills can be seen (and perhaps the Mount Kilimanjaro).

Ocean viewpoint offers a panoramic view over the hilly countryside and as faras the Kenyan coast and the (hale Island and there is a picnic site. The Giriama point is on the way towards Sheldrick Falls,

Mwaluganje Forest (Elephant Sanctuary)

Located at approximately14 km from the main gate of Shimba Hills N.P., the Elephant sanctuary is linked with the National park by a fenced elephant corridor, so there are chances to see elephants crossing the main red-soil road.

The forest is also home for endemic bird species and indigenous trees species such as Mbambakofi (Afzelia quanzensis), Mvule (Milicia excelsa) and Mgurure (Combretum schumanii) and six species of cycad, a fan-like plant that evolved 300 million years ago (Eucephalartos hildebrantii).

Visiting the park is a great opportunity to discover the dry red-soil of inland Kenya by doing a real safari and observing African elephants while being near the coast and still enjoying the freshness of the coastal breeze.

Where to Stay

Lodges

Aberdare Safari Hotels,

Tel: +254 (20) 5540780, 5535412.

Sel-catering Accommodation

Sable Bandas; Located 2 km from the Main Gate the Bandas have four units with a capacity of two, with a fully furnished kitchen. Reservations are made through the warden or KWS HQ, Nairobi.

CAMPING

2 public campsites: Professional (capacity 100), Makadara (capacity 50), 2 picnic sites Ocean view (capacity 50), Sheldrick Falls Walk (Capacity 50).

Best time to visit: All year round.

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 and guidebooks

PLEASE RESPECT THE WILDLIFE CODE

  • Respect the privacy ofthe wildlife, this is their habitat.
  • Beware ofthe animals, they are wild and can be unpredictable.
  • Don‘t crowd the animals or make sudden noises or movements.
  • Don‘t feed the animals, it upsets their diet and leads to human dependence.
  • Keep quiet, noise disturbs the wildlife and may antagonize your fellow visitors.
  • Stay in your vehicle at all times, except at designated picnic or walking areas.
  • Keep below the maximum speed limit (40 kph/25 mph).
  • Never drive off-road, this severely damages the habitat.
  • When viewing wildlife keep to a minimum distance of 20 meters and pull to the side of the road so as to allow others to pass.
  • Leave no litter and never leave fires unattended or discard burning objects.
  • Respect the cultural heritage of Kenya, never take pictures of the local people or their habitat without asking their permission, respect the cultural traditions of Kenya and always dress with decorum.
  • Stay over or leave before dusk, visitors must vacate the Park between 7.00pm – 6.00am unless they are camping overnight. Night game driving is not allowed.

HOW T0 GET THERE

Roads:

From Mombasa, take the ferry at Likoni to access the southern coastline where Diani and Tiwi beaches are. Then, take the main A14 coast road l0 km southwards until you join the main crossroad. Take the road climbing to Kwale Town ((106). The main gate is located at 1 km from the C106 road and 3 km from Kwale. Park Gates: Main gate, Kivumoni Gate, Kidongo Gate and Shimba Gate.

Airstrips:

The reserve has one airstrip located near park headquarters.

Open:

Daily 6.00am – 6.00pm. Note: No entry is allowed on foot, and visitors will not be allowed into the Park after 6.15pm.

Current entry charges:

Obtainable via KWS HQ: Tel: +2S4(20)6000800, 6002345 – Fax: +254(20)6007024

Email: marketing@kws.go.ke – website: www.kws.go.ke

‘Safari Card‘ required?

At present the park does not operate the Safari Card system. Entry is by cash only.

The Warden:

Shimba Hills National Park, P.0. Box 30, Kwale – Kenya.

Tel: +254(040)2l04259/2041866, Cell: +254(722)397460, (727)034714, (70l)573054

Saiwa Swamp National Park

Sitatunga’s aquatic domain

Rippling quiet waters meander beneath the boardwalk amidst rustling reeds and bulrushes, as a glimpse of the  sleek Sitatunga antelope catches you by surprise. Sounds of nature fill the air as the rare De Brazza’s monkey rattles a branch and birds swirl in flight. Saiwa Swamp is nature’s private reserve. An ornithologist’s delight.

Saiwa Swamp National Park
Saiwa Swamp National Park

Swamp facts

The Kenyan government created the smallest National Park in Kenya to protect the habitat of the rare and endangered semi-aquatic sitatunga antelopes and Brazza’s monkeys. Saiwa Swamp abounds with birds and wildlife plus diverse and plentiful flowers and trees.

Dominated by bulrushes and other aquatic plants, winds its way through the wetland , and by run-off from the surrounding riverine forest.

Attractions

Wildlife

Saiwa Swamp National Park protects its resident population of Sitatunga antelope (tragelaphus spekei), which are believed to number as many as 100 animals.

Belonging to the larger antelope family, the Sitatunga is uniquely adapted for its favoured wetland habitat. The only other known Kenyan populations are in the papyrus swamps of Lake Victoria and the Kingwal Swamp near Kapsabet.

Crepuscular and extremely shy, these antelope hides in papyrus and almost submerge themselves when alarmed. Sitatunga’s have brown coats, transverse white stripes on their backs and elongaged splayed hooves which enable them to walk on the surface of the swamp. The males have twisted horns.

Look for the nocturnal pottos(relatives of the bushbaby), Spotted-necked otters, giant Iorest squirrels, the black and white colobus monkey, bushback and bush duiker as well as small groups of De Brazza’s monkeys.

Birdwatching

Birdlife is abundant. Waterbirds include the lesser jacana, grey heron and African black duck among others.

The forests shelter the Narina trogons, one of Kenya’s most spectacular forest birds. Watch for the collared and orange-tufted sunbirds, sipping nectar from the flowers of the forest edge. The yellow bishop often whirrs above the reeds, its blazing yellow back on display. Hartlaub’s marsh widowbird also frequents the rushes. Noisy Ross’s turaco’s are difficult to miss while the paradise flycatcher and the lovely black-headed qonolek are easy to see along the trails.

Ludher’s bush—shrike is much shier while the square-tailed drongo and the double-toothed barbet perch in the lower branches of forest trees. Cinnamon-chested bee-eaters abound, as do crowned cranes, especially when the surrounding farms are ploughed or harvested.

Plants

Within this tropical wetlands and mosaic of riverine forest, sedges and acacia woodlands, with fringing dense rushes and grass beds, are some of Kenya’s loveliest terrestrial orchids. The bronze and purple eulophia horsfallii, the fleshy pink satyrium crassicaule and the crimson satyrium sacculatum  orchids abound, including the comet orchid, with greeny—white , flowers fading to peach. Epiphtic ferns flourish.

The wetter riverine forest is marked by spreading afzelia trees and gigantic strangler figs(Ficus). Syzygium trees, with their dark-purple fruits, are not uncommon along the edge of the   swamp.

Insects

The swamp is exceptionally rich in dragonflies and damselflies. Butterflies include swallowtails and charaxes. The African mocker  swallowtail, papilio dardanus, is very common after the rains. Across the forest floor, ants swarm.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Frogs and toads abound, with many different kinds of tree frogs trilling and piping after ‘ rainstorms. Bell’s hinged tortoise, a forest-dwelling species, is found in the park and the  blue-headed tree agama lizard is sure to cross your path. Snakes include the forest cobra and African rock python. As you follow the trails, watch for a side-striped chameleon. They  are common, but easy to overlook due to their excellent camouflage.

Where to stay

Camping areas:

The park has a serviced campsite at the main gate. Facilities include hot showers, flush toilets, f barbeques, electricity plus various shades and shelters.

Other campsites and accommodation are available at the nearby Sirikwa Tented Camp located on the r main Kapenguria road, 6km after the Saiwa Swamp junction, it offers a campground with tents for hire  and a guest house too.

 What to take with you

Plenty of drinking water, picnic or camping items if you intend to stay overnight, plus binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, anti-malaria prophylactics, walking shoes and  field guides.

Fact file

Area:2.9 sq km

Altitude: 1,820-1,880 meters above sea level

Location:  Trans Nzoia District, Rift Valley Province.

Gazetted:1974

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.

Vegetation: Swamp, riverine forest, bulrushes reeds

Mammals: includes Sitatunga, monkey, otter, genet cat, serval cat, mongoose, bushbuck and ratel.

Birds: 372 species including such rarities as Ross, turaco and blue-headed coucal.

Roads: The park has no roads, only walking trails.

Open daily: Dawn to dusk-6.00am to 6.00pm. No entry is permitted after 6.l5p.m All vehicles must park at the gate and entry is by foot only.

Current entry charges: Obtainable via KWS HQ ( Nairobi) +254 (20) 600800, 602345.

Email:  reservations@kws.go.ke

Safari card required? At present the Park do not operate the Safaricard. Entry is by cash only (Kshs, US$)

Contacts: The Senior Warden:

P.O.B0x 4506, Kipsaina Tel: +254 (020) 05455022

Email: saiwapark@kws.go.ke

How to get there

By road

Saiwa swamp National Park is 22km

Best hotels in Taita Taveta County

best hotels in Taita Taveta county
best hotels in Taita Taveta county

  1. Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge: Located in Taita Hills Wildlife Conservancy, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
  2. Lion’s Bluff Lodge: Perched on the edge of a bluff overlooking the plains of Tsavo West National Park, this eco-friendly lodge offers breathtaking views and comfortable accommodations.
  3. Voi Wildlife Lodge: Located inside Tsavo East National Park, this lodge offers an authentic African safari experience with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and game drives.
  4. Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort offers stylish accommodations, a spa, swimming pool, and a variety of activities such as game drives and cultural tours.
  5. Ashnil Aruba Lodge: Located in Tsavo East National Park, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations and game drives to spot the Big Five and other wildlife.

Attractions around Taita Taveta

Taita Taveta is a county in Kenya located in the Coast Province. It is home to a number of natural and cultural attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions in Taita Taveta include:

Attractions around Taita Taveta
Attractions around Taita Taveta

This is one of the largest and oldest wildlife parks in Kenya. And it is home to a diverse range of animals, including elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and more.

  1. Tsavo West National Park: This park is located in the southern part of Taita Taveta. Its scenic beauty, wildlife, and birdlife are known. It is home to the Mzima Springs, a natural water source that attracts a variety of animals.
  2. Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located in the Taita Hills and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffalo. Over 300 species of birds are found in the area, making it known for its birdlife.
  3. Lake Jipe: This is a shallow lake located on the border between Kenya and Tanzania. Over 300 species of birds are found in the area, making it known for its birdlife.
  4. Wundanyi: This is a small town located in the Taita Hills, known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. It is home to the Taita Hills Forest, which is a popular hiking and birdwatching destination.
  5. Mzima Springs: This is a natural spring located in Tsavo West National Park, known for its crystal-clear water and resident hippos and crocodiles.
  6. Shomoto Hill: This is a scenic hill located in the Taita Hills, known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  7. Ngangao Forest: This is a pristine forest located in the Taita Hills, known for its unique birdlife and hiking trails.
  8. Taita Hills Cultural Centre: This is a museum and cultural center located in Wundanyi, dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Taita people.
  9. Sagalla Hill: This is a scenic hill located in the Taita Hills, known for its panoramic views and hiking trails. Additionally, it is also home to a number of caves that were once used by the Taita people.

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. It is a popular tourist destination in Kenya, known for its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and abundant birdlife.

Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha

One of the main attractions of Lake Naivasha is the opportunity to take a boat ride on the lake. During the boat ride. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. As well as spot hippos and various species of birds.

The lake is also home to several wildlife conservancies and game reserves, such as the Hell’s Gate National Park and the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary. These areas offer visitors the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and various species of antelope.

How to get there

  1. By Road: You can reach Lake Naivasha by road from Nairobi. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic. There are public buses and matatus (shared taxis) that operate between Nairobi and Naivasha.
  2. By Private Car: You can also hire a private car or taxi from Nairobi to Naivasha. This is a more convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or carrying luggage.
  3. By Air: If you’re short on time or prefer to avoid the road trip, you can take a domestic flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Naivasha’s airstrip. The flight takes about 30 minutes.
  4. By Tour Operator: Many tour operators in Nairobi offer day trips and overnight stays in Naivasha. This is a convenient option, especially if you’re new to the area and would like a guide.
  5. Boat Safaris – Take a boat safari on the lake and spot a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species, such as pelicans, kingfishers, and cormorants.

Attractions

  1. Boat Safaris – Take a boat safari on the lake and spot a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species, such as pelicans, kingfishers, and cormorants.
  2. Crescent Island Game Sanctuary – Take a walk or bike ride around the island and see wildlife up close, such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
  3. Hell’s Gate National Park – Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and cycling in the scenic park, which is also home to wildlife, including baboons and hyenas.
  4. Crater Lake Game Sanctuary – Visit this beautiful park and enjoy walking around the crater, where you can spot wildlife like zebras, gazelles, and giraffes.
  5. Bird Watching – Lake Naivasha is home to over 400 species of birds, including African fish eagles, herons, and the endangered great crested grebe.
  6. Fishing – Fishing for tilapia and other fish is a popular activity on the lake.
  7. Lake Oloiden – Visit the nearby lake, which is known for its pink flamingos and stunning scenery.
  8. Mount Longonot – Climb the dormant volcano and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  9. Elsamere Conservation Centre – Learn about wildlife conservation efforts and the history of the area at this conservation center.
  10. Geothermal Spa – Relax and rejuvenate in the hot springs located near Lake Naivasha.

 

Chale Marine Park is a protected area located off the coast of Chale Island in Kenya. The marine park was established in 1995 and covers an area of approximately 14 square kilometers. It is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in collaboration with the local communities.

The Park is home to a diverse range of marine life, including over 200 species of fish, dolphins, sea turtles, and coral reefs.

Chale Marine Park

Here’s a quick guide to visiting Chale Marine Park:

Chale Marine Park activities

The Park offers a range of activities for visitors, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottomed boat rides. There are also opportunities for bird watching and hiking in the nearby forest.

Marine Life

The park is home to a diverse range of marine life, including over 200 species of fish, dolphins, sea turtles, and various types of coral. Visitors should be respectful of the marine environment and avoid touching or disturbing any wildlife.

Cultural History

The nearby Diani Beach area has a rich cultural history, with a mix of African, Arab, and European influences. Visitors can explore local villages, sample traditional foods, and learn about the region’s history and customs.

Entrance Fees

There is an entrance fee to access the marine park, which varies depending on whether you are a resident of Kenya or a foreign visitor. The fee includes a marine park guide and snorkeling gear, if needed.

Chale Marine Park Accommodation

There are several accommodation options near the Marine Park, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

Best Time to Visit Chale Marine Park

The best time to visit the Park is during the dry season, from December to March and from July to October, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain showers throughout the year.

How to get there

The marine park is located on the southern coast of the island of Diani Beach in Kenya, East Africa. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Moi International Airport in Mombasa, and then taking a taxi or private transfer to Diani Beach.

Overall, the Park is a beautiful and unique destination for those interested in exploring the marine environment and local culture of Kenya’s southern coast.

 
 
 

Kenya is home to several national parks and wildlife reserves that are renowned for their natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Here are some of the most popular national parks in Kenya:

National Parks

Maasai Mara National Reserve

This reserve is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world. In addition it is known for its large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing animals, as well as its population of predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

Amboseli

Similarly popular park that is famous for its large herds of elephants, as well as its views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 400 species of birds, including large flocks of flamingos. It’s also home to other wildlife, such as black and white rhinos, lions, and leopards.

Tsavo National Parks

Tsavo is one of the largest national parks in Kenya, and is known for its diverse landscape, which includes savannas, forests, and deserts.

Nairobi National Parks

This park is located just outside of Nairobi and is the only national park in the world that is located within a city. It is a great place to see wildlife, including lions, leopards, and buffalo, without having to travel far from the city.

Samburu

This reserve is known for its unique and diverse wildlife, including the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, and the Beisa oryx.

Meru National Parks

It is located in eastern Kenya and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. These include lions, elephants, cheetahs, and hippos.

Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya National park is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife.

Aberdares

Located in central Kenya and is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, and leopards.

These national parks and reserves are popular tourist destinations and play a critical role in conserving Kenya’s wildlife and ecosystems. Each offers its own unique beauty and wildlife.

Tourism in Kakamega County is located in western Kenya and is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The county has a number of attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists. Some of the most notable tourist sites in Kakamega include

The famous crying stone
The famous crying stone

1. Kakamega Forest: This is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is one of the few remaining tropical     rainforests in Kenya. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, butterflies, and birds.

2.Ilesi Hill: This is a popular hiking destination located in the heart of Kakamega. The hill offers panoramic   views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for picnics.

3.Maragoli Cultural Centre: This cultural centre is located in the town of Vihiga and showcases the rich         cultural heritage of the Maragoli people. Visitors can learn about traditional dances, music, and food, and  see displays of traditional clothing and artifacts.

4.Kitale Museum: This museum is located in the town of Kitale and showcases the history and culture of   the people of western Kenya. Visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural   traditions of the region.

5.Le’Hermon Hill: This hill is located in the town of Kakamega and is a popular spot for sunset viewing.   The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for picnics and    outdoor activities.

Hotels Around Kakamenga

  1. Rondo Retreat Centre – located in the heart of the Kakamega Forest, this retreat center offers comfortable accommodation in a peaceful and natural setting.
  2. Golf Hotel Kakamega – situated in Kakamega town, this hotel offers easy access to various tourist attractions and has amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
  3. The Green Guest House – located near the Crying Stone of Ilesi, this guest house offers affordable accommodation with basic amenities.
  4. Masinde Muliro Gardens Hotel – situated near the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, this hotel offers comfortable accommodation with amenities such as a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar.
  5. Crest Park Hotel – located in the town of Kakamega, this hotel offers affordable accommodation with basic amenities and easy access to various tourist attractions.

What to Carry

  1. Comfortable walking shoes.
  2. Insect repellent.
  3. Raincoat or umbrella.
  4. Binoculars.
  5. Camera.
  6. Drinking water.
  7. Sunscreen.
  8. Hat or cap.
  9. Money.

Best  Time to visit Tourism in Kakamega county

The best time to visit Kakamega for tourism is during the dry season from June to October and December to February.

There are several myths about traveling to Africa that are not true. Here are some of them:

  1. Africa is one big country: This is a common misconception about Africa. Africa is a continent, not a country. There are 54 countries that make it up, each with its own unique culture, language, and traditions.
  2. Africa is unsafe: While there are some areas in Africa that may not be safe. This is not true for the entire continent. Just like any other destination travelers. Need to take the necessary precautions and research the safety of their destination before traveling.
  3. People often associate Africa with its incredible wildlife, but the continent has much more to offer than just that From beautiful beaches to historic landmarks and cultural festivals. There are many reasons to visit Africa beyond just seeing the wildlife.
  4. Many developed cities with modern amenities like shopping malls, five-star hotels, and excellent transportation systems exist in Africa. While there may be some underdeveloped areas, this is not representative of the entire continent.
  5. Africa is poor: While there are some countries in Africa that struggle with poverty. This is not true for the entire continent. Africa has some of the fastest-growing economies in the world. And there are many successful businesses and industries throughout the continent.
  6. Africa has over 2,000 languages spoken by its people, and many individuals are proficient in multiple languages. Most Africans speak their local languages for communication, although they commonly use English, French, and Portuguese as well.

It’s important to dispel these myths and encourage people to experience the beauty and diversity of Africa.