Saiwa Swamp National Park is a lush green sanctuary located near Kitale in Trans Nzoia County Kenya. Established in 1974 it holds the unique distinction of being the smallest national park in the country covering only 3 square kilometers. Despite its size Saiwa Swamp was created with the primary aim of protecting the endangered and elusive Sitatunga antelope a semi-aquatic species that thrives in swampy habitats. The park is a waterlogged paradise made up of a mixture of swamp, riverine forest, grasslands and acacia woodlands, forming a perfect home for wetland-adapted wildlife.
Sitatunga Antelope Sanctuary
The Sitatunga are a rare and shy antelope that is specially adapted to life in the swamp with splayed hooves and an oily coat that allows it to move effortlessly through the thick vegetation and muddy waters. Saiwa Swamp is the only park in Kenya where this antelope can be easily spotted, this makes them the heart of the park and a must-visit for keen wildlife lovers and researchers. Alongside the sitatunga the park also hosts De Brazza’s monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, bushbucks, otters, genets, numerous reptiles and amphibians. The park is also a paradise for bird watchers with over 370 species of birds recorded including the Ross’s turaco, grey crowned cranes, Narina trogon and the rare Hartlaub’s marsh widowbird.
What makes Saiwa Swamp Unique?
Saiwa swamp is a pedestrian-only park meaning no vehicles are allowed within the park boundaries this helps in preserving its quiet ambiance and minimizing disturbances to wildlife. Visitors explore the area via a network of raised wooden boardwalks, nature trails and observation towers, offering excellent vantage points for wildlife viewing and photography.
Which is the best time to visit Saiwa Swamp National Park?
Saiwa Swamp National Park is open all year round, though the dry seasons being December to March and June to September offer the best conditions for walking and spotting wildlife.
The park lies about 22 kilometers north of Kitale town and is accessible via a murram road leading to the main gate, known as Saiwa Gate or Sinyerere Gate. For those coming from further afield, Kitale has a small airstrip that accommodates scheduled and charter flights.
Activities to Explore at Saiwa National Park in Kenya
- Nature Walks
- Birdwatching
- Wildlife Viewing
- Botanical Tours
- Picnicking
- Insect & Amphibian Spotting
- Nature Sketching or Journaling