Ruma National Park- Kenya

Ruma National Park

About Ruma National Park

Ruma National Park is a protected area located in western Kenya, in the Lambwe Valley. It was established in 1966 as a game reserve and was upgraded to a national park in 2010. The park covers an area of 120 square kilometers and is located about 140 kilometers from Kisumu City in Kenya.

Ruma National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare species such as the Roan Antelope, Jackson’s Hartebeest, and Rothschild’s Giraffe. Other animals found in the park include elephants, buffaloes, zebras, impalas, warthogs, hyenas, and leopards. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the area.

The park is named after Ruma River, which flows through the park and is an important source of water for the animals. The vegetation in the park is mainly savannah grassland with patches of forest along the riverbanks. The park is also surrounded by hills, which provide a scenic view of the surrounding area.

Tourists can engage in various activities in the park, such as game drives, bird watching, camping, and nature walks. The best time to visit Ruma National Park is between December and March when the park is lush and green after the rainy season.

Wildlife

This is the most effective region in Kenya to peer the uncommon roan antelope. Other added species consist of Jackson’s hartebeest, black rhino, hyenas, bohor reedbuck, buffalo and Burchell’s zebra.

The localized race of Rothschild’s giraffe also can be noticed. There are tracks to be discovered of leopard and noticed hyena, however those predators are shy and are not going to be encountered.

Best Time to Visit

It may be visited whenever of the year.

However, natural world viewing is exceptional all through the dry season from June to October and from January to February.

Note that it’s miles hard to go to the park all through the height of the fast rains in November and all through the lengthy rains in April and May, because of the situations of the road.

Climate

The weather withinside the Ruma National Park is humid and hot. It has wet seasons, from March to June in addition to from October to early December. The dry season begins off evolved from the cease of June to September in addition to from mid-December to February.

Getting There

Fee Charges

Ruma National Park

Citizen

Resident

Non-Resident

Adults

KSH

Child

KSH

Adult

KSH

Child

KSH

Adult

USD

Child

USD

300

215

300

215

25

Sibiloi National Park- Kenya

Sibiloi National Park

About Sibiloi National Park

Sibiloi National Park is a protected area located in northern Kenya, near the eastern shore of Lake Turkana. They established the park as a national park in 1973, and it covers an area of approximately 1,570 square kilometers.

The park is named after Mount Sibiloi, which is an extinct volcano located within its boundaries. The landscape of Sibiloi National Park is mainly semi-arid, with scattered bushes and grasslands. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including African elephants, lions, hyenas, zebras, and various species of antelope.

Paleontological discoveries in Sibiloi National Park, including fossils of early hominids such as Australopithecus anamensis. Which is considered one of the earliest members of the human family tree, are known.

The park also contains a number of important archaeological sites that date back to the Stone Age, such as the Koobi Fora Formation.

Visitors to Sibiloi National Park can engage in a variety of activities, such as game drives, bird watching, hiking, and camping. Roads from the nearby town of Kalokol provide access to the park, and an airstrip serves it as well.

Wildlife

The park hosts several animals gifted with the ability to survive in arid conditions, including Grevy’s Zebra, Beisa Oryx, Gerenuk, and additional Kudu. Birdlife is prolific with extra than three hundred species recorded around Lake Turkana.

The alkaline lake isn’t appropriate for plenty of species. However Flamingos and Pelicans love the algae withinside the water and the salty environment.

One may notice a type of water bird, along with African Skimmers, Herons, and Gulls, at the coastline, and the park is also home to local species such as the Crested Lark and Heuglin’s Bustard.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sibiloi National Park in Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from July to October and from December to March. During this time, the weather is mostly sunny and dry, making it easier to navigate the park and spot wildlife.

During the wet season, which runs from April to June and from November to December, the park can become quite muddy and difficult to navigate, and some of the roads may even become impassable. However, the wet season can also be a great time to visit for bird watching, as migratory birds are often present in the park during this time.

Climate

Sibiloi National Park The park gives a faraway place each warm and semi-arid which occurs from December to March. June to July are good months. Then May to September very sturdy winds blow each morning and evening.

The place gets much less than 250 millimeters, even though in a few locations it’d take years to rain. The park has were given numerous access gates together including the principal gate ‘’Karsa gate’’, Alia bay, and Koobi for a gate.

How to get there

  1. By Air: The nearest airport is the Lodwar Airport, which is approximately 70 km away from the park. There are daily flights from Nairobi to Lodwar operated by several airlines such as Fly540, Jambojet, and Safarilink. Once you land in Lodwar, you can take a taxi or hire a 4×4 vehicle to the park.
  2. By Road: Sibiloi National Park is approximately 800 km from Nairobi, and the drive takes about 12 hours. You can take the A2 highway from Nairobi to Kitale, then continue on the B8 road to Lodwar. From there, take the road to Kalokol and finally to the park.
  3. Organized Tours: You can also book a tour with a local travel agency or tour operator. They can arrange transportation from Nairobi or any other location, including lodging, meals, and activities within the park.

Tsavo West National Park-Kenya

Tsavo West National Park

Tsavo West National Park is a popular tourist destination located in the southern part of Kenya. The park is in the coastal region of Kenya and covers an area of approximately 9,065 square kilometers.

Tsavo West National Park

How Many gates does Tsavo West National park have?

savo West National Park has several gates that visitors can use to enter the park. Further the number of gates may vary depending on the source of information, but the most commonly recognized gates are four:

  1. Chyulu Gate: Located in the northern part of the park and offers access to the park from the Chyulu Hills.
  2. Mtito Andei Gate: Located in the southern part of the park and is the main entrance to the park.
  3. Tsavo Gate: Located in the eastern part of the park and offers access to the park from the Nairobi-Mombasa highway.
  4. Jipe Gate: Located in the south-western part of the park and offers access to the park from Tanzania.

Wildlife

Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including some of the most iconic and rare species in Africa.

  1. Elephants: The Park is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Kenya, with over 12,000 individuals. These majestic creatures can often be seen wandering through the park, drinking at watering holes, and feeding on vegetation.
  2. Lions: Lions are also commonly sighted in the park, and the Mzima Springs area is known for its resident prides.
  3. Leopards: Because leopards are more elusive than lions, visitors to the park may still have the chance to spot these elusive creatures.
  4. Cheetahs: The Park is also home to a small population of cheetahs, which can sometimes be seen sprinting across the open savannah in pursuit of prey.
  5. Buffalo: These large herbivores can be seen grazing on the grasslands, and are often accompanied by their young calves.
  6. Giraffes: Giraffes are another common sight in the park, and visitors may see these tall animals browsing the treetops for leaves.

Tsavo West National Park Attractions

  1. Mzima Springs: This natural spring is a popular attraction in the park.Visitors can take a guided walk along the river to observe the crystal-clear waters, hippos, crocodiles, and various fish species that live there.
  2. Shetani Lava Flows: These black lava flows are a result of a volcanic eruption that occurred over 200 years ago. The lava flows have formed a unique landscape with deep cracks and canyons which visitors can explore the area on foot.
  3. Chaimu Crater: This volcanic crater offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for a picnic or a guided walk.
  4. Roaring Rocks: These towering rock formations offer visitors panoramic views of the park and the surrounding plains. The rocks get their name from the echoing sound made by the wind as it rushes through the rocks.
  5. Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary: The sanctuary was established to protect the endangered black rhinoceros. Visitors can take a guided tour to see these magnificent animals up close and learn about conservation efforts in the park.
  6. Game Drives: Visitors can take guided game drives to explore the park and see a variety of wildlife species. These elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, and zebras.
  7. Bird Watching: Tsavo West National Park is home to over 600 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
  8. Hiking and Camping: The park has several designated hiking trails and camping sites as visitors explore the park on foot and spend the night in the wilderness.

Charges

  1. Citizens/Residents:
  • Adults: Ksh 515 per person per day
  • Children (3-18 years): Ksh 215 per person per day
  1. Non-Residents:
  • Adults: USD 52 per person per day
  • Children (3-18 years): USD 35 per person per day

Note that these charges are subject to change, and visitors should check with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for the latest fees before visiting Tsavo West National Park.

How to get there

The Park is located in the southern part of Kenya, approximately 240 km from Nairobi and 250 km from Mombasa. Here are some ways to get to the park:

  1. By road: The park can be accessed by road from Nairobi or Mombasa. The Nairobi-Mombasa highway runs through the park, making it easy to access from either city. Visitors can use their own vehicles or hire a car to reach the park.
  2. By air: There are several airstrips within the park, which can be used by private charter planes or scheduled flights. The closest airstrip to the park is the Kilaguni Airstrip. This is about 45 minutes drive from the Mtito Andei Gate.
  3. By train: In addition Visitors can also reach the park by train from either Nairobi or Mombasa. The train stops at the Mtito Andei Railway Station, which is about 2 km from the park’s Mtito Andei Gate. From there, visitors can take a taxi or a tour vehicle to enter the park.

The Aberdares National Park-Kenya

The Aberdare National park entrance

About The Aberdares National Park

The Aberdare National Park is a covered location withinside the Aberdare Mountain Range in imperative  Kenya placed eastward of the East African Rift Valley.

It covers the better regions and the Aberdare Salient to the east.

The Aberdare National park entrance

Overview

The park is located approximately 100 km north of Nairobi and covers a wide variety of terrain at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 meters.

Established in May 1950, Aberdare National Park covers an area of ​​766 square kilometers and is part of the Aberdare Range.

The The Aberdares National park encompasses a variety of landscapes, from mountain peaks towering 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level to its deep V-shaped valleys criss-crossed by streams, rivers, and waterfalls.

Moorland, bamboo forests and rainforests are found at lower elevations.

Aberdares forest

Fee

Category Fees (Kshs)
Adult Child/student
Citizen 300 Kshs 215 Kshs
Resident 300 Kshs 215 Kshs
Non-Resident 52 US$ 26 US$

 

How to get there

By Road: The Park is effortlessly handy on tarmac from Nyeri and Naro Moru at the Eastern aspect and it’s a 150 km from Nairobi.

A street crosses the park via the decrease slopes as much as the Moorlands to hook up with another one from Naivasha at the western aspect. Naivasha is 87 Kms from Nairobi .

The park HQS is 15 Kms from Nyeri town, alongside the Nyeri – Nyahururu street.

By Air: The nearest airstrip is the Mweiga Airstrip on the alternative aspect from Park Hqs alongside Nyeri – Nyahururu street close to Sasini Estate Farm.

Attraction

Aberdare NP is domestic to all the Big Five. However, it isn’t a normal Big Five destination.

Bushbuck and defassa waterbuck are very not unusualplace and sightings of elephant and buffalo are nearly guaranteed.

Leopard and black rhino are from time to time noticed at one of the tree hotel’s floodlit waterholes at night. Lion is not often seen.

One of the Aberdares attraction

Best Time to Visit

The Aberdares National Park  provide precise natural world viewing for the duration of the year, however heavy rain may be a hindrance.

Most humans will spend as a minimum one night time at one of the tree hotels – it’s far feasible to look a number of natural world from the motel with out venturing further.

People who need to discover the park extensively – mainly hikers – need to pick out to go to withinside the Dry season from June to September or January and February.

Climate

The altitude withinside the Aberdares varies widely – from 1,952 to 3,894m (6,404 to 12,776ft). Temperatures drop through approximately 6.5°C for each 1,000m you climb (or 3.5°F in step with 1,000ft), so even withinside the park there are huge climatic variations.

The weather is commonly cool and misty. Heavy rain happens year-round, averaging as a good deal as 3,000mm in step with annum withinside the southeast areas.

Read Also: Hell’s Gate National Park- Kenya Wildlife

Being near the equator, temperatures are pretty uniform for the duration of the year. Warm and water-resistant apparel is essential.

 

Meru National Park-Attractions and location

Meru National Park

Meru National Park is a national park located in the Eastern part of Kenya, in the Meru County. The park covers an area of about 870 square kilometers and is situated about 350 km from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The park is named after the Meru people, who are the local inhabitants of the area.

Meru National Park

The park is also known for its scenic landscapes,. These include rivers, waterfalls, and forests. One of the main attractions in the park is the Tana River, which flows through the park .The river offers visitors the opportunity to engage in activities such as fishing and white-water rafting.

Wild life

Meru National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more. The park also boasts over 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.

Attractions

Attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the main attractions in the park:

  • Wildlife: Meru National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more. The park is also home to over 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
  • Rivers and waterfalls: The park is traversed by several rivers, including the Tana River, which offers visitors the opportunity to engage in activities such as fishing and white-water rafting. The park also boasts several waterfalls, including the spectacular Elsa’s Kopje waterfall.
  • Scenic landscapes: Meru National Park has a variety of scenic landscapes, including savannah grasslands, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops.
  • Cultural experiences: Visitors to the park can also enjoy cultural visits to the nearby villages, where they can learn about the customs and traditions of the local Meru people.
  • Game drives: Game drives are a popular activity in the park, offering visitors the opportunity to see wildlife up close and in their natural habitat.
  • Guided walks: Guided walks are another way to explore the park and its wildlife, with experienced guides leading visitors on walks through the park’s forests and savannahs.
  • Accommodation options: Meru National Park offers a range of accommodation options, including camping sites, lodges, and luxury tented camps, providing visitors with a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the park.

Accommodation near Meru National Park

Here are some of the accommodation options available:

  1. Elsa’s Kopje: This is a luxury safari lodge located on Mughwango Hill, offering stunning views of the park. The lodge has 9 cottages, a swimming pool, and a spa. Rates start at around $450 per person per night.
  2. Rhino River Camp: This is a tented camp located on the banks of the Kindani River. The camp has 7 tents and offers game drives, guided walks, and cultural visits. Rates start at around $350 per person per night.
  3. Ikweta Safari Camp: This is a mid-range tented camp located on the border of the park. The camp has 8 tents, a swimming pool, and offers game drives and guided walks. Rates start at around $180 per person per night.
  4. Leopard Rock Lodge: This is a luxury lodge located on the slopes of Mughwango Hill. The lodge has 15 rooms, a swimming pool, and offers game drives, guided walks, and cultural visits. Rates start at around $350 per person per night.
  5. Murera Springs Eco Lodge: This is a budget lodge located just outside the park. The lodge has 8 rooms, a swimming pool, and offers game drives and guided walks. Rates start at around $50 per person per night.

Park Charges

In terms of park charges,

The fees for non-residents are $52 per adult per day and $26 per child per day. For residents, the fees are KSH 1030 per adult per day and KSH 515 per child per day.

These fees cover park entry, game drives, and guided walks. Fishing and white-water rafting activities are charged separately.

Best Time to Visit Meru National Park

The long, cool, and dry season from July to October is generally considered the best time to visit Meru National Park. With little or no new rainfall, seasonal waterholes are evaporating and vegetation is sparse.

 How to get there

Here are some of the ways to get to the park:

By road: The most common way to get to Meru National Park is by road. There are several options for driving to the park, including private cars, taxis, or rental cars. The journey from Nairobi takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

By air: There are several airstrips near the park, including the Mulika, Maua, and Meru airstrips. Also You can take a scheduled flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to one of these airstrips, and then take a taxi or shuttle to the park.

By train: The nearest railway station to Meru National Park is in Nanyuki, about 120 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to the park.