KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE TOURISM & CONSERVATION MANUAL
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
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CONTENTS
3 5 7 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 28 29 30 33 34
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FOREWORD INTRODUCTION CONSERVATION AREA LOCATIONS Tsavo Western Southern Central Rift Coastal Mountain Eastern Northern RESOURCE MOBILISATION KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE FUND PROJECTIONS FOR THE FUTURE ANIMAL ADOPTION PROGRAMME HUMAN/WILDLIFE CONFLICT Kenya’s marine protected areas marine wildlife code MANAGING PARKS THE WILDLIFE CODE PARK LISTINGS
Contact details: Kenya Wildlife Service Marketing and Business Development Tel: +254 (20) 399 1000/399 2000 Email: marketing@kws.go.ke www.kws.go.ke
The Kenya Wildlife Service Tourism & Conservation Manual is published by:
land&MARINE Land & Marine Publications Ltd 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park, Colchester Essex, CO4 9RA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1206 752 902 Fax: +44 (0)1206 842 958 E-mail: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com Printed by: Reflex Litho Ltd Photo credits: KWS, Jennifer O’leary, Dloniak Stephanie, Linda Whitwam The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor nor of any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. ISSN 2047-2021 ©2011 Land & Marine Publications Ltd
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
FOREWORD
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Welcome to a world of adventure
Pushing messages about the experiential of-
Service. Those who have visited these parks and
and important habitats. All these could not be
fers of a tourist destination like Kenya Wild-
reserves, or those who specialise in packaging
possible without your contribution through
life Service (KWS) parks must be one of the
Kenyan safaris, will be familiar with many of these
conservation fees. Every time you develop an
most exciting jobs, right? Truth be told, it’s
locations. However, with the twin challenges
itinerary with a KWS park or visit a KWS park
like running up the mountain with an egg on
above, we would wish to interest you in adven-
and pay the requisite conservation fees, you are
a spoon. There is the expectation of deliver-
ture tourism. KWS parks and reserves have more
leaving your footprint in the conservation of one
ing value of that authentic African safari, yet
to offer than the ‘Big Five’ safari: birding, hiking,
of humanity’s most valuable legacies.
also conserving the wildlife and landscapes
mountain climbing, rock climbing, mountain
under serious threat from human activity.
biking, deepsea diving, snorkelling and camping;
The main objective of this manual is to provide the
The tourism product that KWS manages is
all set within breathtaking landscapes or seascapes.
travel trade and tourists with the information they
in most instances nature-based, meaning
In most instances, this activity-based, low-impact
need to plan your next safari. As KWS, we will
that the twin challenges of climate change
tourism can be enjoyed in the lesser-known parks
continue to sustainably manage and protect the
and the sustainable management of the
which this tour planner opens up to you.
unique offerings of our parks and reserves, the
environment remain alive to us. In tackling
amazing wildlife, landscapes, marine life, glaciers
these twin challenges, we intend to partner
Support
on the equator and adventurous excursions in
with our customers and stakeholders to pro-
Managing Kenya’s wildlife means caring for one
order to deliver the ultimate African safari.
mote low-impact tourism and enhance our
of humanity’s most valuable legacies. How well
involvement with communities who remain
we do so is of concern to the entire world and
key to wildlife and habitat management.
requires the support of the entire world. Our role is as diverse as the areas we operate in.
We are delighted to introduce to you the KWS
Our wildlife conservation programmes are well
Tourism & Conservation Manual covering all parks
documented and increasingly successful in terms
and reserves managed by the Kenya Wildlife
of saving endangered and threatened species
Kenya WILDLIFE SERVICE Marketing & Business Development Department
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
Introduction / 5
protecting wildlife in the 21st century
By Munira Anyonge-Bashir, HSC Assistant Director and Head of Community Enterprise Development
For Kenya Wildlife Service, strategic com-
Adjacent communities were farming in the
large mangrove forest and coral garden which
munity partnerships is vital to conserving
corridor and suffered crop destruction, injury
boarders Wasini Village. KWS proposed the
and managing our precious wildlife.
and death by the elephants. To resolve this, KWS
construction of a 1 km boardwalk through the
proposed a change in land use from farming to a
coral gardens that would be owned and oper-
The strategy of the KWS community partnerships
sanctuary. Agreements were drawn up requiring
ated by the women themselves. Now, tourists
is to help communities and private landowners to
landowners to give the legal rights of sanctuary
who visit Wasini pay a fee to go on the board-
set up and run economically viable and sustain-
management for conservation.
walk, which allows them to view the ancient coral structures.
able nature-based enterprises within designated areas of Kenya. Not all wildlife in Kenya is confined to protected
Two years later, payments ranging from KES 60,000 to KES 200,000 were made to each
Aloe farming
family who donated vacant land.
A two-day exposure tour for a Samburu community based organisation known as Hope
areas and KWS sees the communities that coexist with wildlife as a key partner in sustain-
Families are currently receiving yearly payments
for Samburu Aloe Farms was organised by KWS
able wildlife conservation for future generations.
for setting aside land for conservation. KWS is
Samburu station to visit an aloe factory and
We do so through our education and awareness
also working with the sanctuary management on
farms run by Baringo Bio-Enterprise (BABE).
programmes; corporate social responsibility in
investor engagement.
The aim was to inform the community members about nature-based enterprises. This project is
the form of providing water, health and education facilities; community enterprise initiatives;
Wildlife sanctuary
still in its initial stages. Plans are under way to
and mitigation measures to reduce conflict
The Lumo Community Wildlife Sanctuary, in the
continue working with these communities.
between humans and wildlife.
heart of the Tsavo ecosystem is a key dispersal area for elephant and other species.
Wildlife conservancy With support from USAID, our partner since
The idea is that if people benefit from wildlife and other natural resources, then they will
Three group ranches in Taita, Lualenyi, Mramba
the early 1990s, KWS has established the Olerai
take care of these resources and use them
and Oza have come together to form the Lumo
Community Wildlife Sanctuary in Kajiado. The
sustainably.
Sanctuary, which aims to increase the area under
Olerai community set aside 8,800 acres and
wildlife conservation and to reduce conflict
KWS has trained 20 community scouts and a
between humans and wildlife.
sanctuary manager. A management plan is being
Elephant sanctuary
drawn up while an investor is being sought to
The 60,000 acre Golini Mwaluganje Community Elephant Sanctuary was established in 1995 to
Women’s garden project
create a corridor for movement of elephants
The Wasini Women’s Group Coral Garden Board-
between Mwaluganje Forest Reserve to the
walk is a special project in the coastal region.
north and Shimba Hills National Reserve in
KWS helped local women to develop their
Kwale, South Coast.
own profitable ventures as well as conserving a
help the community set up a tourism facility.
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CONSERVATION AREA LOCATIONS
Sibiloi NP
Lake Turkana
Central Island NP
NORTHERN
South Island NP
WESTERN
Marsabit NP & R
Nasalot NP South Turkana NP
KENYA
Saiwa Swamp NP
MOUNTAIN
Mt. Elgon NP
Mt. Kenya NP
Kakamega NP Ndere Island NP
Lake Victoria
Kisumu Impala Sanctuary
EASTERN
Aberdare NP
Kora NP
Lake Nakuru NP
Ruma NP
CENTRAL RIFT
Meru NP
Mwea NR Mt. Longonot NP
Hell’s Gate NP Nairobi Safari Walk
Oldonyo Sabuk NP Nairobi NP Kiunga Marine NR
Nairobi Animal Orphanage
SOUTHERN TSAVO
Amboseli NP
Arabuko Sokoke NP Malindi Marine NP
Chyulu NP Tsavo East NP KEY: NP – NATIONAL PARK
Tsavo West NP
Watamu Marine NP
COAST Mombasa Marine NP
NR – NATIONAL RESERVE R – RESERVE
Shimba Hills NR
Kisite Marine NP
Indian Ocean
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
8 / Tsavo
An essentially African experience Parks in this area: - Chyulu Hills National Park - Tsavo East National Park - Tsavo West National Park
What to bring with you: - Drinking water - Picnic items - Camping equipment (if you intend to stay overnight) - Walking boots - Warm clothing - Binoculars - Camera - Hat - Sunscreen
The joint mass of Tsavo West and Tsavo
Game watching
East National Parks forms one of the largest
All the national parks and reserves in Kenya offer
national parks in the world, covering four
game drives. Usually, the best times to set out
per cent of Kenya’s total land area.
are early morning and late afternoon because, in the midday heat, most animals disappear into
Tsavo East, the larger of the two, lies east of the
the cool undergrowth.
Nairobi-Mombasa road, equidistant between Nairobi and Mombasa, a vast and untapped
Each park has its own ecosystem and wildlife.
- Sunglasses
arena of arid bush washed by the meandering
For a guarantee of magnificent game drives,
Galana River. It is guarded by the limitless lava
however, the Tsavo parks has just about every-
- Guidebooks
reaches of Yatta Plateau and patrolled by some
thing, including vast herds of dust-red elephant,
of the largest elephant herds in Kenya.
fat pods of hippo, giant crocodile and a kaleidoscope of birdlife, all set against a backdrop of endless bush. Night game drives are also available in both parks and in the Chyulu Hills.
Elephants in Eden The sight of dust-red elephants wallowing, rolling and spraying each other with water in the Galana River is one of the most evocative images of Africa – one that is synonymous with Tsavo East National Park.
Mudanda Rock This whale-backed rock in Tsavo East National Park towers above a natural dam that attracts elephants in their thousands. Views here are exceptional and it is a great place to sit and watch game. Other interesting land formations include the Yatta Plateau, which was formed
Chyulu Hills National Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 458-90137, Kibwezi Tel: +254 (0)20 2153 433 Email: chyulunp@kws.go.ke
from ancient volcanic activity to create a long, flat-topped lava ridge on the western border of Tsavo East.
Lugards Falls Named after Captain F.D. Lugard, the first
Tsavo East National Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 14, Voi Tel: +254 (0)20 240 5957 +254 (0)43 30 049 +254 (0)43 2030 084 Email: tsavoeast@kws.go.ke
proconsul to East Africa, the Lugards Falls in Tsavo East feature bizarrely eroded rocks through which the waters of the Galana River plunge into foaming rapids and crocodile-infested pools.
Underwater hippo hide Mzima Springs is the star attraction of Tsavo West, a pool of natural spring water with under-
Tsavo West National Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 71, Mtito Andei Tel: +254 (0)43 30 049 +254 (0)43 310 011 +254 (0)43 2080 268 Email: tsavowestnp@kws.go.ke
water viewing hides for observing hippo.
Cave exploration The volcanic hills of Chyulu, ash cones and craters are outstanding examples of the major stages of the earth’s history. The landscape also includes caves that are fascinating to explore – most notably, the Shetani Caves, consisting of two large openings with an ancient tree growing between them, and Man Eater’s Cave, which contains human bones.
miles in a series of whale-backed summits. This is a magical area of ragged craters, rolling grassland, exotic aromatic plants and cedar forests
chyulu HILLS The Chyulu Hills are one of Kenya’s most photo-
Other activities
genic regions – an area of rolling open plains
Camping, bush climbs, horse riding, guided
interrupted by the hills, which run for about 30
walks along the Tsavo River and birdwatching.
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10 / Western
Untamed wilderness, secluded splendour Parks in this area: - Central Island National Park - Kakamega Forest National Reserve - Kisumu Impala Sanctuary - Mount Elgon National Park - Ndere Island National Park - Ruma National Park - Saiwa Swamp National Park
What to bring with you:
Camping
Park is well set up for this activity, offering key
For those who want to go back to basics
facilities such as adequate shelter, benches,
and live out in the wild, camping in Kenya’s
drinking water and toilets.
national parks is a memorable experience if
- Drinking water
one is prepared to live without luxury.
- Picnic items
KWS runs campsites throughout all the regions
used as an escape route by the Kalenjin tribe in
- Camping equipment (if you intend to stay overnight)
in which it operates. Campsites in western
colonial times, while Twiga picnic site is in the
Kenya are located in Mount Elgon National
middle of the park, allowing visitors to watch the
Park, Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, Sibiloi National
animals while they eat.
- Walking boots
Park, Kakamega Forest Reserve, Saiwa Swamp
- Warm clothing
National Park and Ruma National Park.
- Binoculars
Self-catering
from their vehicles and take a more personal
Long-stay visitors, those on a budget and tour-
look at Kenya’s amazing wildlife. Nature trails
ists who prefer to shape their own holidays may
can be tour-guided or self-guided and are avail-
prefer to stay in self-catering accommodation,
able in most parks and reserves.
- Camera - Hat - Sunscreen
Ruma National Park has two dedicated picnic areas. Korlang’o picnic site is located in an area
Nature walks Nature walks give visitors a chance to get away
known locally as bandas. Western parks offering well trodden nature
- Sunglasses
There is a wide choice of scenically located,
walks include Kakamega National Park, Ndere
attractively presented and economically priced
Island National Park, Kisumu Impala Sanctuary,
- Guidebooks
self-catering accommodation in most KWS parks.
Saiwa Swamp National Park and Mount Elgon National Park.
Ruma National Park contains a unique selfcatering guesthouse built on the Kanyamwa
Night walks are an attractive option for those
Escarpment.
hoping to see shy nocturnal animals.
Picnicking
Salt mining elephants
For a great weekend adventure, visitors can
Kitum Cave in Mount Elgon National Park is well
bring their own food and enjoy a meal amid the
known as the only place in the world where
wildlife and the vast landscape.
elephants go underground into caves at night to scrape the walls for the salt contained in the rock.
Various parks have been designated picnic areas.
Three short nature trails lead to Kitum Cave and
In the western region, Mount Elgon National
visitors are advised to bring comfortable footwear.
Climbing
extremely shy animals prefer to feed in the
Mount Elgon offers great opportunities for
morning and evening. They occasionally leave
climbing and walking. No special hiking equip-
the swamp after dark to browse.
ment is required and guides are provided by the park management. The highest peak on
Butterfly watching
the Kenya side is Koitobos (4,200 metres). It
For bird and butterfly watchers, Kakamega
is reached across beautiful moorland, with an
Forest National Reserve is the place to visit. The
opportunity to visit the hot springs on the way.
forest is home to over 400 species of butterflies, which can be viewed under the large forest
Endangered sitatunga
canopy.
Saiwa Swamp National Park was established to protect the endangered sitatunga, a type of
Other activities and attractions
antelope. The park is the only place in Kenya
Crater lakes at Central Island National Park, horse
where the elusive sitatunga has become rela-
riding, Lake Turkana, walking, game viewing and
tively used to the presence of humans. These
birdwatching.
Kakamega National Reserve contacts: PO Box 879, Kakamega Tel: +254 (0)56 30 603; 30 962 Email: kakamegaforest@kws.go.ke Kisumu Impala Sanctuary contacts: The Warden, PO Box 1193, Kisumu Tel: +254 (0) 57 21 105 Email: kwsksmtel@vccweb.nec; kisumustn@kws.go.ke Mount Elgon National Park contacts: The Warden, PO Box 753, Kitale Email: menp@swiftkenya.com; elgonnp@kws.go.ke Ndere Island National Park contacts: PO Box 1193, Kisumu Email: nderenp@kws.go.ke Ruma National Park contacts: The Warden, PO Box 420, Homa Bay Tel: +254 (0)3 529 119 Cell: +254 (0)722 418 900 Email: rumastn@kws.go.ke Saiwa Swamp National Park contacts: The Warden, PO Box 4506, Kipsaina Tel: +254 (0)20 29 826 Email: saiwapark@kws.go.ke South and Central Island National Parks contacts: The Warden, PO Box 219, Lodwar Tel: +254 (0) 5421 223
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
12 / Southern
A place for creating lifelong memories Parks in this area: - Amboseli National Park - Nairobi Animal Orphanage - Nairobi National Park - Nairobi Safari Walk - Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park
What to bring with you: - Drinking water - Picnic items - Binoculars - Camera
Nairobi National Park must be one of the
The KWS Southern Conservation Area also
few places in the world where you can
embraces Amboseli National Park, housing
- Hat
be surrounded by wildlife – yet only a
Kenya’s largest population of elephant, and Ol
- Sunscreen
30-minute ride from the centre of a capital
Donyo Subuk, where visitors can see the grave
- Sunglasses
city. Ideally located for team building ses-
of Lord Macmillan, an eccentric American farmer
sions, weddings and special events, the
who was the first foreigner to settle here.
- Guidebooks
park is also a popular outing venue for couples, friends and family groups.
Events Conveniently located close to Nairobi’s internationally acclaimed restaurants, the Nairobi National Park is a popular venue for corporate events, bush dinners, weddings and picnics.
Dine In Nairobi National Park, patrons of the Rangers Restaurant can relax over a meal while enjoying a view of the park. There are also spacious picnic sites throughout the park.
Wildlife Aside from elephant, visitors staying in Amboseli have the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including the ‘Big Five’. The park has Mount Kilimanjaro as its backdrop and visitors can enjoy views over the whole park from Observation Hill, while the swamps below are home to many elephant, buffalo, hippo and various water birds such as pelican and Egyptian goose. Nairobi National Park is home to a number of black rhinos, a shy and endangered species. In
fact, the park is the major rhino sanctuary for
most doors sideways. He was the first person
breeding and restocking other parks. It is also
to experiment with the domestication of wild
home to large predators such as lion, leopard,
game in Africa and he also attempted to breed
hyena and cheetah and groups of large herbivores
wildebeest on his farm.
including eland, buffalo, zebra and wildebeest.
Amboseli National Park contacts: Senior Warden PO Box 18, 00207, Namanga Tel: +254 (0)45 622 251; 20 243 3025 Email: amboselinp@kws.go.ke
Animal orphanage History and culture
The Nairobi Animal Orphanage was built in 1963
Interestingly, Nairobi National Park contains an
to care for young animals which have lost their
ivory burning site. This is where former President
mothers through predation, poaching or natural
Daniel arap Moi burned 10 tonnes of ivory to
causes. The orphanage also cares for wounded
make a bold gesture in his campaign to end the
animals found in the bush, abandoned.
poaching of elephants for their tusks. Since then, such fires have been lit twice to destroy confis-
Natural wonders
cated rhino horns and ivory.
Described as one of Kenya’s most spectacular landmarks, Fourteen Falls in Ol Donyo Sabuk
Within Amboseli National Park, guests can
National Park is a magnificent sight and a
observe – and participate in – the contempo-
popular picnic spot. The area has key facilities
rary Maasai culture and indigenous lifestyle.
such as shelters, benches, drinking water and
The Maasai community here is one of the few
toilets.
Nairobi National Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 42076, Nairobi Tel: +254 (0)20 399 2000/1000 +254 (0)20 237 907-16 Email: nnp@kws.go.ke Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 1514 0100, Thika Tel: +254 (0)20 206 2503 Email: oldonyo@kws.go.ke
to have maintained their traditional cultural practices.
Other activities/attractions Camping, mountain climbing, views from the
The unusual Macmillan grave in Ol Donyo Sabuk
summit of Mount Kenya (in Ol Donyo Sabuk
National Park is a place of pilgrimage for many
National Park), corporate events, bush dinners,
visitors. Sir William Northrup Macmillan was a
picnicking, Nairobi Safari Walk, birdwatching.
wealthy American farmer, seven feet tall and reputedly so fat that he had to walk through
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14 / Central Rift
A totally different encounter Parks in this area: - Hells Gate National Park - Lake Nakuru National Park - Mount Longonot National Park
What to bring with you: - Plenty of drinking water - Hat - Sunscreen - Picnic items - Camping equipment - Binoculars - Camera
An area of beautiful landscape, craggy cliffs
are crowded with greater and lesser flamingos as
and vast open spaces, the three KWS parks
well as other water birds.
in the Central Rift Region are diverse and
- Sunglasses
full of opportunities for exciting activities.
- Guidebooks
Hells Gate is famous for its eagle and vulture
Raptor Hide and Mount Longonot National Park
breeding grounds and is a popular cycling
is also a paradise for birds of prey.
Raptors nesting in the cliffs at Hells Gate are fascinating to watch from the Mervyn Carnelley
location; Lake Nakuru has a prolific colony of flamingo; while a huge extinct volcano domi-
Cycling
nates the landscape in Mount Longonot National
Providing visitors with an invigorating and chal-
Park.
lenging experience, cycling is an up-and-coming trend in Kenya’s national parks.
Game viewing Lake Nakuru is home to a variety of wildlife such
Hells Gate National Park is one of the most
as the lion, leopard, rhino, giraffe and buffalo,
atmospheric parks in Africa. It offers rewarding
all of which can be viewed from the comfort of
experiences for both novice and expert cyclists,
a safari vehicle. Located in Hells Gate National
who can enjoy some of the country’s most
Park, the Oljorwa Gorge features hot springs and
magnificent scenery. Cyclists can make their way
numerous geological attractions.
along the park trails and witness towering cliffs, water-gouged gorges, stark rock towers and
Horse riding
spontaneous geothermal steam.
A wildlife safari on horseback offers a kind of freedom that cannot be experienced on other
Rock climbing
safaris. Hells Gate National Park now offers this
For those with limited time, ‘big wall’ cragging
increasingly popular adventure.
at Fischer’s Tower in Hells Gate National Park, only an hour and a half from Nairobi, is a grand
Birdlife
experience for day trippers from the capital. This
Flamingos, raptors and eagles can be seen in the
45 metre high wall is composed of basalt rock
Central Rift region. The shores of Lake Nakuru
and offers a variety of excellent training climbs.
Hells Gate National Park Contacts: The Warden PO Box 234-20117, Naivasha Tel: +254 (0)50 50407 +254 (0)50 50290 Email: hellsgatenp@kws.go.ke Lake Nakuru National Park contacts: Senior Warden PO Box 539, Nakuru Tel: +254 (0)20 266 4071 +254 (0)20 266 4079 +254 (0)20 267 1686 Email: swlakenakuru@kws.go.ke Mount Longonot National Park Contacts: PO Box 234-2011,7 Naivasha, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)50 50 407; 50 290 Fax: +254 (0)311 20 577 Email: longonotnp@kws.go.ke
Landscape
Lake Nakuru National Park has popular viewing
The landscape in the Central Rift highlands
points including Lion Hill, Baboon Cliff and the
provides some unique opportunities for photog-
Makalia Waterfall.
raphy. In Mount Longonot National Park the extinct volcano and a crater forest, along with
Other activities
views of Lake Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley,
Camping, hiking, team building and walking.
present a vast and varied panorama.
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16 / Coastal
A whole new world Parks in this area: - Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve - Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park - Malindi Marine Park - Kiunga Marine Reserve - Mombasa Marine Park - Shimba Hills National Reserve - Watamu Marine Park
What to bring with you: - Footwear such as sandals or flip flops to protect your feet from the reef - T-shirts to protect your body from sunburn - Snorkel, mask, fins (all available for hire) - Camera, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent - Guidebooks - Plenty of drinking water
The beautiful KWS marine parks provide
At each of the dive facilities, visitors must obey
a wonderful insight into the underwater
the marine park rules. These include:
world through diving and snorkelling, with opportunities to meet playful dolphins,
• No collecting or touching of marine life,
admire coral gardens and observe bright
corals or shells
tropical fish. • No fishing inside the marine park For active visitors, there are plenty of activities on the coast such as diving, windsurfing, water-skiing
• No spearfishing.
and glass-bottomed boat rides. Alternatively, visitors can just enjoy the wonderful Kenyan climate
Specialists and teachers should always accom-
and sunbathe on the white beaches.
pany diving excursions.
Snorkelling and deepsea diving
Although visitors can dive all year round, the
All five KWS coastal parks have diving schools
best time to watch dolphins is from August to
and snorkelling facilities. Watamu Marine Park,
April.
- Swimwear
Mombasa Marine Park, Kiunga Marine Reserve, Kisite Marine Park, Mpunguti Reserve and
Glass-bottomed boat rides
- Towel
Malindi Marine Park are all beautiful locations
Halfway up Kenya’s coast are the delightful
with a wealth of marine life.
towns of Watamu and Malindi. This area was much loved by Ernest Hemingway, who came here for big game sport fishing. The marine parks have their coral reefs several miles offshore and glass-bottomed boats are the usual way of getting to the reefs. This allows non-swimmers an opportunity to look at the coral and the colourful fish that crowd around the boat expecting to be fed.
Dhow trips A popular way to spend a day is a dhow trip in Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, often combined
with a seafood lunch on Wasini Island. This tour was established in 1978 and was the first of its kind on the Kenya coast, helping to establish Kisite as a marine park.
Coral gardens The Wasini Coral Gardens within Kisite Marine Park are a remarkable feature of Wasini Island. The gardens are managed by a local women’s
Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve contacts: The Warden, PO Box 1, Gede Tel: +254 (0)20 233 5801 +254 (0)20 233 5802 +254 (0)20 600 0800 +254 (0)20 600 2345 Email: kwsarabuko@yahoo.com arabukoforest@kws.go.ke
group, with proceeds going towards preserving the giant coral rocks and the mangrove forest while providing a livelihood for the village community.
Honeymoon Romantic, relaxing and remote, Kenya has long
Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 55, Ukunda, Msambweni District Tel: +254 (0)40 52 027 +254 (0)20 354 9520 Email: kisite@africaonline.co.ke
Mombasa Marine Park contacts: PO Box 82144, Mombasa Email: adcoast@kws.co.ke msamarine@kws.go.ke Shimba Hills National Reserve contacts: PO Box 30, Kwale Tel: +254 (0)40 4159 +254 (0)40 4166 Email: shimbahills@kws.go.ke Watamu Marine Park contacts: The Warden, PO Box 109, Malindi Tel: +254 (0)42 31 554 +254 (0)42 208 450
been a dream honeymoon destination and it is easy to understand why. Kenya is a place of great enchantment, offering luxury accommodation, endless white sand beaches and welcoming local people.
Kiunga Marine Reserve contacts: The Warden PO Box 82, Lamu Tel: +254 (0)42 633 080 +254 (0)42 633 194
What with champagne toasts at sunset and candle-lit beach dinners, a honeymoon in Kenya is sure to provide lasting memories.
Other activities and attractions Camping, conferencing, licensed filming, dolphin sighting, game viewing at Shimba Hills National Reserve, nature walks, swimming, trekking,
Malindi Marine Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 109, Malindi Tel: +254 (0)42 31 554 +254 (0)20 845 +254 (0)20 233 5684 Email: malindimarine@kws.go.ke
windsurfing, water-skiing and sunbathing.
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18 / Mountain
Ascent to the summit Parks in this area: - Aberdare National Park - Mount Kenya National Park - Mwea National Reserve
What to bring with you: - Drinking water - Picnic items - Camping equipment (if you intend to stay overnight)
Mountain climbing
trails in some of the better-known safari parks,
Mount Kenya offers climbers an opportuni-
game viewing experience in the mountain region
- Binoculars
ty to conquer Africa’s second-highest moun-
is a more leisurely experience. Visitors have more
tain as well as a chance to walk through an
time and space to observe the wildlife – often
alpine meadow in the clouds, bracing one-
against the spectacular backdrop of Mount Kenya.
- Camera - Hat - Sunscreen - Sunglasses - Guidebooks - Comfortable footwear
self against the wind as the land becomes rocky and desolate.
Kenya has always been famous for its excellent safari opportunities. However, game parks vary a
Yet another popular site is the Aberdare Ranges,
great deal depending on the landscape, topog-
whose summits can be reached by way of a
raphy and inhabiting species – and also the way
strenuous high-altitude trek.
in which they are organised. In general, the best parks are those with large areas of open space
Game viewing
where animals are easier to track and spot – and
Away from the more frequently visited tourism
this is certainly true in the Mwea National Reserve. In Aberdare National Park animals such as eland and spotted and melanistic serval cats can be found higher up in the moorlands. Rarer sightings include lion, golden cat and bongo, an elusive forest antelope which lives in the bamboo forest.
Birdwatching Mwea National Reserve has over 200 species of birds and is renowned for its water birds and waders. The reserve is also the only protected area in which the globally threatened and Kenyaendemic Hinde’s babbler is known to occur. The reserve also shelters two other rare species: Pel’s fishing owl and the white-backed night heron. Birdwatching in Aberdare National Park is rewarding, too, with species including Jackson’s
francolin, sparry hawk, goshawk, eagle, sunbird and plover.
Fishing For keen anglers, there is excellent fishing in the many cool mountain streams that flow through the Aberdare forest. With its clear, tumbling streams and shaded river bends, Aberdare National Park is a wonderful place in which to fish for brown and rainbow trout. A modestly priced fishing licence can be
Aberdare National Park contacts: Email: aberdare@wananchi.com
obtained on arrival at the park gates. The laws of Kenya permit only fly-fishing. Mount Kenya National Park also has opportunities for fishing.
Mount Kenya National Park contacts: PO Box 753, Nyeri Email: mt.kenya@kws.go.ke
Kamburu Dam From Mwea National Reserve visitors can take boat rides at Kamburu Dam to Hippo Point. This is a good opportunity to spot the animals that congregate along the water’s edge. The dam itself is used to produce hydro-electric power from a huge manmade lake.
Heritage Site. It is described as one of the most
Mwea National Reserve contacts: PO Box 8-60113, Kiritiri, Embu Tel: +254 (0)68 20301 Email: mwea@kws.go.ke
impressive landscapes in East Africa with its
Cave exploration
rugged glaciers and peaks, afro-alpine moor-
In the foothills of Mount Kenya are the Mau Mau
lands and diverse forests, lakes, tarns and
Caves, used as a hide-out by Kenyan revolution-
mineral springs. Here, visitors can find rare and
aries during the Mau Mau Uprising of 1952 to
endangered species of animals as well as unique
1960. The caves are now a historical site with a
montane and alpine vegetation including 11
significant place in Kenya’s history.
species of endemic plants.
Landscape
Other activities
Unesco has designated Mount Kenya a World
Trekking, photography, camping and walking.
/ 19
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
20 / Eastern
A complete wilderness Parks in this area: - Kora National Park - Meru National Park
What to bring with you: - Drinking water - Picnic items - Camping equipment (if you intend to stay overnight) - Binoculars - Camera - Hat - Sunscreen - Sunglasses - Guidebooks
Meru National Park contacts: The Senior Warden PO Box 11, Maua Tel: +254 (0)61 230 3094 +254 (0)20 210 9508 Email: merupark@kws.go.ke
Straddling the equator and bisected by 13
autobiographical book, ‘Born Free’, and its
rivers and numerous mountain-fed streams,
successful film adaptation.
Meru National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Kenya. A green paradise
Game viewing
compared with the dry savannah of some of
Game viewing opportunities in Meru include
Kenya’s parks, this was the wilderness into
buffalo, bushbuck, duiker, eland, elephant,
which George and Joy Adamson released
gazelle, genet, giraffe, hartebeest, impala, kudu,
Elsa the lioness, creating the much-loved
waterbuck and zebra. Visitors can expect to see
film ‘Born Free’. Meru’s sister park, the ad-
baboon, hyena, jackal, kudu, large prides of
joining Kora National Park, was designated a
lion, mongoose, oryx, oribi, vervet monkey and
reserve in 1973 and a park in 1990. Covering
warthog. The rivers in the park abound with
just over 1,700 sq km, it comprises an area of
hippo and crocodile. Birdlife includes Peter’s
dense woodland and scrub. Its 65 km north-
finfoot, which inhabits the Murera and Ura Rivers,
ern boundary is formed by the Tana River.
Pel’s fishing owl, kingfishers, rollers, bee-eaters, starlings and numerous weavers.
Elsa the lioness Meru National Park is the former home of Joy
George Adamson’s grave
and George Adamson, who famously raised an
Kora National Park contains the grave of George
orphaned lioness in their home and then later
Adamson, who was shot and killed by bandits or
returned her to a life in the wild.
poachers on 20 August 1989 while attempting to help a tourist escape. Adamson spent his last
Tana River and Adamson’s Falls
years in Kora and stubbornly refused to leave even
Meandering all the way from the Aberdare Forest,
when the violence continued to escalate. He is
Kenya’s longest river, the Tana River, makes its
buried next to his brother, Terence, who died two
way into Kora National Park where it ruptures into
years earlier in the park, and two of his lions.
Adamson’s Falls. A trip to this part of Kenya would not be complete without visiting these awe-
Fishing
inspiring falls. Other popular visitor attractions are
Within Kora National Park fishing is permitted at
the Grand Falls and the Kora Rapids.
campsites and along the Tana River.
Joy and George Adamson
Other activities and attractions
The former home of Joy and George Adamson
Camping, views of Mount Kenya from Meru
is preserved and available for viewing. Meru
National Park, rock climbing in Kora National
National Park was made famous by the couple’s
Park and inselbergs.
Northern / 21
An undiscovered historical wonderland Parks in this area: - Marsabit National Park & Reserve - Sibiloi National Park
What to bring with you: - Drinking water - Picnic items - Camping equipment (if you intend to stay overnight)
Universally recognised as the most likely
Realm of the raptors
site of the biblical Garden of Eden, Sibiloi
Renowned for its impressive array of rare and
- Binoculars
National Park is full of fascinating archaeo-
little-known birds, Marsabit National Park
logical sites. Relatively undiscovered, the
& Reserve contains 400 recorded species of
- Camera
KWS parks in northern Kenya are just wait-
birds. This is an ornithologist’s paradise, with
ing to be explored.
52 species of birds of prey living in the park, including the very rare lammergeyer.
History One of the area’s most famous residents was the
Camel safaris
Elephant Ahmed who lived in Marsabit National
For more adventure loving visitors, camel trek-
Park & Reserve. In the 1970s, to demonstrate
king is great fun. Marsabit offers camel safaris
Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation,
conducted by local tribesmen.
this elephant was given the 24-hour protection of an armed guard. When Ahmed died, aged 55,
Archaeological safaris
his body was preserved and is now on display at
Known as the ‘Cradle of Mankind’, Sibiloi
the National Museum in Nairobi.
National Park was created to protect the sites of the many remarkable hominid fossils. In 1972
Land of gofs
Dr Richard Leakey and his team discovered a
Mount Marsabit is peppered with extinct
fossilised skull 2 million years old. The almost
volcanic craters, known locally as gofs. Cloaked
complete skull was labelled Skull 1470 by the
in aromatic moss-encrusted forests, Gof
National Museum of Kenya.
Bongole, on the eastern edge of the park, is the largest and most dramatic of the craters, with a
Also in Sibiloi, visitors can see the fossil of a 3
10 km rim. There are also crater lakes that attract
million-year-old giant tortoise, an ancient species
large numbers of resident birds. The most scenic
of crocodile and a behemoth dating back 1.5
is Lake Paradise, made famous in the early films
million years.
- Sunscreen - Sunglasses - Guidebooks
Marsabit National Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 42, Marsabit, Kenya. Tel: +254 (0)69 2028 +254 (0)69 2279 Email: marsabitnp@kws.go.ke Sibiloi National Park contacts: The Warden PO Box 219, Lodwar, Kenya. Tel: +254 (0)54 21 223 Email: sibiloi@kws.go.ke
Other activities and attractions
and writings of Martin Johnson and Vivien de Wattville.
- Hat
Crocodile kingdom
Butterfly watching, the Jade Sea and Singing
Sibiloi National Park lies on the shores of Lake
Wells.
Huge-tusked elephant bulls
Turkana, home to the world’s largest population
Marsabit is one of the few places in Africa where
of Nile crocodiles (estimated at 12,000). Despite
elephants with tusks of over 45 kg can still be
their huge size and formidable appearance, the
seen, though they tend to keep to the forests
crocodiles are generally inoffensive beasts living
and can be difficult to locate.
in harmony with their environment.
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
22 / RESOURCE MOBILISATION
Protecting wildlife takes resources – and resourcefulness
Kenya’s national parks and reserves risk
tHREAT
becoming ecological islands or even large
Without proper planning, Kenya’s soil is being
zoos as surrounding farms, towns and vil-
ploughed and paved so that wildlife habitat,
lages continue to expand.
including forest, is slowly disappearing outside protected areas. In addition, the parks and
Life is clearly getting harder for animals in Kenya.
reserves, which are heavily guarded, become
On the other hand, when large animals wander
too small to sustain natural populations of larger
from protected areas, they are treading on
mammals and must be fenced and intensely
someone’s land – a farm, a ranch, a homestead –
managed. For instance, to prevent inbreeding,
which in turn makes life harder for people.
animals are shuttled back and forth between reserves for mating purposes.
Where communities experience only destruction
communities and the private sector have also led the black rhino from the brink of extinction to
from wildlife, the wildlife dwindles. If wildlife is
tOURISM
more than 600 animals. National conservation
a burden, without benefit to local people, it is
Kenya’s wildlife endowment is one of the world’s
goals include 700 black rhinos in East Africa by
unlikely to survive outside protected areas.
greatest natural spectacles. It is the principal
2010 and 3,000 by 2030.
attraction for 75 per cent of visitors to Kenya. In turn, tourism is one of the largest sector of
Successful conservation takes commitment by
the economy providing foreign exchange and
people from all walks of life, many of whom
hundreds of thousands of jobs directly and in
are in partnership with KWS. The organisation
related industries. The nation’s official devel-
provides technical expertise and oversight for
opment blueprint for the future, Vision 2030,
local authority managed national reserves, works
envisages that tourism will continue to grow in
with researchers to collar and track animals so
importance.
as to monitor their populations, movements and health. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
SUCCESS
collaborate with KWS to educate communities
Two decades ago, the mass slaughter of
on how to protect themselves, their livestock and
elephants and rhinos sparked major conservation
farms against wildlife without killing, and how to
initiatives, including the launch of KWS in 1990.
manage their land for conservation.
The elephant population had plunged more than 90 per cent to about 16,000 in 1989. Today,
In future, new and more complex methods of
that number has doubled to 30,000 individuals
conservation will need to be implemented. This
thanks to KWS, international conventions,
is viable only if KWS can secure a more reliable
vigilant anti-poaching, work with communities,
source of funding. With this in mind, the Kenya
research and translocations. Rangers, scientists,
Wildlife Service Fund has recently been established.
Kenya Wildlife Service Fund The Kenya Wildlife Service Fund is an endowment fund dedicated to the conservation of wildlife and the world’s heritage. Sustaining and protecting wildlife in the 21st century and beyond is more complex and expensive than ever. Conservation work today is supported primarily by tourism and international organisations. But tourism is notoriously volatile. The KWS Fund is designed to provide reliable, consistent funding, despite fluctuating tourist income, shifting politics and the vagaries of international economics. By definition, the principal of an endowment fund cannot be touched: only interest and other income may be tapped. So the fund will be able to support wildlife and community conservation efforts generation after generation. For example, the funds needed for security, research and monitoring, translocations, infrastructure and other requirements in Kenya’s national parks alone come to US$72 million (KES 5.4 billion) annually. This does
Target
tions, the Government of Kenya, multilateral and bilateral assistance, corporations and concerned citizens in Kenya and around the world.
The endowment fund’s goal is US$100 million over a decade. At an assumed interest rate of 10 per cent a year, about US$10 million a year will then be available.
In addition to donations from individuals, corporations and development partners, funds have been received via the following events and organisations.
How is the fund managed?
- Kenya Wildlife Service Animal Adoption Programme (which gives half its proceeds to the fund)
not include the needs of national reserves or private or community conservancies.
The fund is managed by a board of trustees made up of internationally recognised experts in conservation and finance. The board comprises between nine and 13 trustees and is appointed for three years. It includes the chairman and director of KWS. Trustees are personally and collectively responsible and liable for the fund. Fund management follows international accounting standards, with all transactions transparent and all books audited yearly by independent auditors. Everyone can contribute to the fund, including visitors, founda-
- To Hells Gate on Wheelbarrow event held every June at Hell’s Gate National Park - Cycle with the Rhino event held each September at Lake Nakuru National Park.
For more information log onto www.kws.go.ke or email rmworks@kws.go.ke.
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
24 / PROJECTIONS FOR THE FUTURE
New challenges ahead for wildlife conservation
Kenya is home to many species of wild-
Killed for meat or medicinal purposes and in
Currently, these strategies are targeted at three
life. Some are abundant, while others are
constant competition for food with domestic
main types of wildlife:
threatened by natural and human factors.
livestock, Grevy’s zebra has endured one of the greatest reductions of any African mammal, with
• Cheetah and wild dog
From fossil evidence and theoretical knowledge
numbers declining from about 15,000 in the late
• Grevy’s zebra
of environmental conditions, it is evident that
1970s to about 2,000 now. Today, they are only
• Lion and spotted hyena.
many species have been wiped out over time.
found in Kenya and North and South Ethiopia.
While extinction is a natural phenomenon that
Similar schemes will soon be implemented for
occurs gradually over millennia, there is no doubt
ENDANGERED
that human activities speed up the process. The
Cheetah and wild dog present major challenges
main challenge is to minimise human-induced
for conservationists. Wild dog are listed as
Climate
threats that may shorten life expectancy and
‘endangered’ and cheetah ‘vulnerable’ by the
Climate change affects life at all levels of the
hasten the extinction of species.
International Union for Conservation of Nature.
ecosystem. In particular, the big cats are affected
Over 80 per cent of cheetah and two-thirds of
in various ways. Their feeding habits are altered
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is a state corpora-
wild dog habitat falls outside protected areas,
by changes in the habitat and, especially in
tion established by Act of Parliament to conserve
in private and community lands. So conserva-
droughts, there is limited access to food. As a
and manage the nation’s wildlife. Through
tion activities outside protected areas are vital to
result, they are forced to widen their home range
support from various sources including the
ensure these populations are conserved.
and this, in turn, leads to more conflict between
Government and donors, KWS has drastically
bongo, sitatunga and primates.
humans and wildlife.
reduced poaching while enlisting support for
KWS, with other stakeholders, has devised
conservation, establishing the infrastructure and
conservation and management strategies aimed
developing human capacity. As a result of these
at mitigating the threat to the survival of certain
efforts, former stable populations of wildlife and
species’, increasing their numbers and building a
their habitats have been restored.
foundation for their long-term conservation.
Animal Adoption Programme The Kenya Wildlife Service Animal Adoption Programme gives an opportunity for individuals or corporations to sponsor an animal at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, which cares for abducted, abandoned and injured wild animals.
- Big game – lion, cheetah, leopard, rhino and buffalo - Carnivores and other herbivores - Small antelopes - Primates - Reptiles - Birds.
Every animal at the orphanage has specific needs. The support goes directly into the upkeep of the animals by providing food, medicine, toys, translocations, cage construction, maintenance, repairs and supplies.
Unrestricted Donations
Half of each sponsorship is directed to the KWS Fund.
Adoption procedure
To date, 15 wild animals have been adopted by six corporate organisations and 15 individual sponsors.
In this category donations are not restricted to any particular use and will go to an area of greatest need at the orphanage.
- Identify the animal of choice at the orphanage or the KWS animal gallery on the website (www. kws.go.ke).
The animal orphanage holds an annual Honorary Adopters Homecoming Feeding Day and a Christmas party. These events bring together foster parents and other potential adoptees to spend time with the orphaned animals. Guests are encouraged to bring gifts such as blankets for the cubs, balloons, toys and playing balls.
- Complete an adoption form at the reception office in the orphanage. This can be downloaded from the KWS website.
The orphanage has a capacity of 62 animals. Based on the cost of its yearly upkeep, each animal is divided into shares of KES 1,000 each. So people can become a foster parent for a minimum of KES 1,000.
- Adoption certificate - Fact sheet on the adopted animal - Annual report on the adopted animal - Quarterly newsletters - Recognition on the animal adoption website - Full-colour 4 x 6 picture of the adopted animal
There are six categories of adoption, determined by the fee:
- Submit the form and pay at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage cash office (online payment will be available soon). Benefits
- Invitation to Homecoming Feeding Day at the orphanage - Adoption T-shirt. KWS Appeal KWS encourages everyone to become an honorary adopting parent or sponsor by helping the orphanage meet the daily needs and requirements of the animals. Donations help provide food, toys and supplies; medicinal and veterinary care; translocations; cage construction, maintenance and repairs. KWS is grateful to everyone who has participated in the programme through contribution towards the Nairobi Animal Orphanage and would like to thanks the following; The Prime Minister Republic of Kenya, the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga; the world 100 metres champion Usain Bolt; the former world 110 metres hurdles champion Colin Jackson; Miss Rosemary Odinga; Bangura Dalvin; Maliq Aaron; Federica Volla; Michelle Wilkinson; Madison Ashworth; Gulamabbas M. Mohamedali; Stuart Wentzel; Rajeen Nangia; Barbara Finn; Susan Webb and Gibran and Raiaan Parekh. The following corporations also made adoptions contributions: East Africa Safari Ventures, Down Syndrome Society of Kenya, Resolution Health, Kenya Methodist University and the Kenya Tourist Board.
Contact details: Resource Mobilisation, KWS Tel: +254 (0)20 600 0800 +254 (0)20 600 2345 (Ext 2128, 2119, 2241, 2190, 2122, 2229) Email: adopt@kws.go.ke rmm@kws.go.ke www.kws.go.ke Contributions: Account Name: Kenya Wildlife Service Endowment Fund Bank: Standard Chartered Branch: Lang’ata Bank Code: 03 Branch Code: 073 Swift Code: SCBLKENXAXXX Account Number: 01044-330374-19
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
26 / HUMAN/WILDLIFE CONFLICT
helping people and animals to live in harmony
Kenya has a rich diversity of wildlife that
as agriculture or livestock keeping. The main prob-
3. Land tenure changes, subdivision, adju-
makes it the ultimate tourist destination.
lems are competition for limited resources like
dication and demarcation of smallholdings.
Kenyans realise the benefits of wildlife tour-
water and pasture; and transmission of diseases
ism and use protected area system manage-
from wildlife to livestock and vice versa.
ment in their national parks and reserves in
Such changes and developments tend to ignore the fact that wildlife has always existed in the area and
order to control and preserve it. However,
Kitengela is a large area of savannah bordering
so it has nowhere else to go once such activities
these measures are still not able to fully con-
the famous Nairobi National Park (NNP). This
start. In such instances, the animals are considered
tain wildlife within physical boundaries.
area was initially a corridor between the
a threat to humans or seen as a nuisance.
Amboseli ecosystem and NNP. The park is Recent studies of wildlife movement and behav-
less than 10 km from the capital and this has
4. Loss of land and displacement of settled
iour show that most of the wild animals continue
meant an ever-growing interaction with human
communities during creation of protected
to live outside the protected areas where they
activities. As it has expanded, the capital has
areas.
come into conflict with people on a daily basis
encroached on the natural wildlife corridor,
owing to competition for natural resources,
halting the seasonal wildlife movement into NNP
For instance, the Maasai community believes
thus coining the phrase human/wildlife conflict
from the surrounding area and inevitably causing
its needs were not considered when protected
(HWC). This can result in human death, injuries,
more contact between people and wildlife.
areas in Maasai land were being established.
2. Unfavourable wildlife laws and policies
5. Climatic change attributed to HWC.
predation and destruction of property. There are five categories of HWC within Kenya:
create a hostile attitude to wildlife.
1. Rapid increase in human population
Although human injury and death by animals is
enced El NiĂąo rains. This saw most of the wildlife,
resulting in the occupation of land formally
compensated by the state, crop destruction and
especially herbivores, migrate from the parks. As a
occupied by wildlife.
property destroyed by wildlife are not. For example,
result, lion prides would stray out of the parks for
A good example was in 1997 when Kenya experi-
if a leopard kills a citizen’s livelihood of sheep and
longer periods because numbers of prey were low
This happens when people settle on land formerly
goats, no compensation would be granted, thus
within the protected areas. The El NiĂąo rains also
occupied by wildlife and engage in activities such
creating a negative feeling towards wildlife.
created a lot of temporary wetlands, causing the
/ 27
Other measures
hippo population in Kenya to migrate to areas not
Wildlife barriers
originally inhabited by hippos. This has been one of
The Community Wildlife Service (CWS) depart-
the causes of conflict between hippos and humans
ment is tasked with designing, planning and
in Kenya. In addition, with the exit of El Niño came
installing protective barriers for various wildlife
La Niña, a prolonged dry spell favourable to reptile
species – for instance moats for hippos, lion-
multiplication. This in turn led to an increase in
proof enclosures for homesteads in pastoral
reported cases involving reptiles. In particular, there
areas and special fencing to deter various wildlife
were more snake attacks on community people.
species. So far, these barriers have proved effective when designed, constructed and maintained
HWC – a proactive approach
efficiently.
When KWS was set up in 1989 it soon realised the scale of the HWC conflicts and formed the
Community awareness
Community Wildlife Service (CWS) department
The CWS department employs Corporate Social
to manage wildlife outside the protected areas.
Responsibility (CSR) with the aim of reaching
The department has used a proactive approach
out to communities that host wildlife and
to managing conflicts by either preventing them
helping them to improve their livelihoods. These
or dealing efficiently with the repercussions. This
communities are supported through public
has been achieved with the help of stakeholders
education (conservation activities and commu-
and participating communities.
nity study tours); health (clinics/dispensaries and support for medical camps); provision of clean
This approach has been assisted by information
water (shallow wells, hand pumps, water tanks,
technology. At KWS headquarters, the depart-
boreholes and other water points); and emer-
ment has a functional database where most of
gency assistance. This has helped to shorten the
the reported conflict cases are input and analysed
distance to water areas and to reduce contact
into conflict trends. This has helped KWS to
with wildlife.
engage in preventive HWC management. There is no doubt that CSR has been a success;
Problem AnimalS
however, in recent years, KWS has launched the
PAMU (problem animal management unit) is a
Community Enterprise Programme, which will
strategy to address the escalating human/wild-
strengthen community-based wildlife conserva-
life conflict in areas of high conflict. Formed in
tion and ecotourism for wealth generation and
2006, PAMU comprises a highly trained mobile
poverty alleviation. This, in turn, will motivate
team of 41 men. They can be divided into four
communities to conserve and accommodate
fully equipped units that can be simultane-
wildlife as a form of economic land use, while
ously deployed to high-conflict zones. PAMU’s
implementing measures to mitigate human/
proactive approach to wildlife management
wildlife conflicts. While the CSR was giving
has helped the service to achieve an enhanced
communities fish, the new programme will
corporate image and positive public attitude to
teach them how to fish. This will provide
wildlife conservation and management owing to
communities with tangible benefits from wild-
its swift response.
life conservation.
The impact of human/wildlife conflict on communities always calls for KWS to take responsibility for the destruction of people’s livelihoods in order for them to appreciate wildlife conservation. Working with other departments, CWS uses various strategic measures to minimise conflicts: - Translocation of problematic animal species away from an ecosystem whose carrying capacity is exceeded. - Animal scarers such as auditory appliances to keep the animals away from community areas. - Diversion tactics to minimise HWC. For example, KWS will provide alternative water for wildlife within a particular wildlife area to reduce the number of animals moving to community areas to find water. - KWS facilitates a Government approved compensation scheme, designed ton prevent communities from taking direct action against the animals that affect them. - Tracking of particular animals such as the lead female in an elephant family and tracking of problematic cats. - Putting down or elimination of very problematic animals. - KWS staff and other stakeholders are continuously making the public aware of human/wildlife do’s and don’ts in wildlife areas. The community is also encouraged to participate by taking steps to minimise wildlife-related destruction.
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
28 / Kenya’s marine protected areas
Finding new ways to conserve ocean habitats
The world’s oceans and coasts are crucially
The use of protected areas to facilitate the main-
important to humankind. Over 60 mil-
tenance and recovery of biological resources has
lion people in eastern and southern Africa
been practised by Kenya for decades now. They
depend on the goods and services provided
have been used to protect such critical ecosys-
by the coastal and marine ecosystems of
tems as coral reefs, seagrass and mangroves.
coastal East Africa.
Coral reefs are vital marine ecosystems that
By Arthur Tuda Senior Warden, Wildlife Utilisation, Compliance and Monitoring, TCA/CCA
sustain livelihoods. They are under intense pres-
PROTECTION
sure because many people depend on them for
are employed directly in the marine parks in
Kenya is determined to protect its marine
their survival.
ecotourism ventures.
more holistically. The urgency now is to shift
The decline of coral reefs in East Africa, and
Both government agencies and private sector
from a piecemeal to a more integrated approach
particularly Kenya, will devastate the local
realise the potential of the marine resources to
to management that incorporates ecological
tourism and fisheries economy, which sustains a
galvanise interest in Kenya’s coastal regions for
and socioeconomic aspects. On the basis of the
big coastal population.
nature tourism and help to promote better
environment by looking at marine management
management of beaches, inshore areas and
various conventions and protocols, Kenya applied strategies on the protection and conservation of
TOURISM
fishing grounds. Local communities are getting
the marine environment.
The strategy of using Marine Protected Areas
more and more involved in marine conservation as
(MPAs) has done much to help Kenya’s marine
they enjoy both direct benefits (ecotourism) and
environment stay healthy and sustain local
indirect benefits (sounder coastal management).
economies that rely on the marine environment. The tourism sector has benefited strongly from
PARTNERSHIP
the strategy, particularly ecotourism. MPAs have
Despite Kenya’s many efforts in ocean conser-
helped safeguard productive populations of
vation, the current framework for managing
commercial fish species, thus safeguarding the
regional marine environment is inadequate. This
industries and populations that depend on them.
region is subject to many international agreements on protecting the marine environment.
Sustainable tourism development provides a host of employment opportunities, especially
At member state level, progress has also been
for women, young people and indigenous
hampered by the fact that purely national
communities. Tourism in MPAs can benefit
measures cannot influence the activities of other
coastal communities though income and
countries bordering a given marine area. To meet
employment, infrastructure and alternative
the challenges of the 21st century, we need to
livelihood, helping to offset the closure of
develop a knowledge base for informed policy-
fisheries. In Kenya, about 2,000 local people
making at all levels of governance.
mARINE WILDLIFE CODE: - Check local weather and sea conditions before entering the marine park. - Some marine life is dangerous; do not touch anything under water. - Do not damage or remove corals. It is a living organism which takes many years to form and is host to many rare and endangered species. - Do not remove shells, starfish or any other sea flora or fauna. Removal is illegal, seriously disrupts the eco system and some marine life is dangerous. The areas outside the parks and reserves is threatened by excessive shell collection. Empty shells provide homes for hermit crabs and some fish. - Do not buy shells and other marine animal products as souvenirs as this encourages further plundering of the reefs and beaches. - Never dispose of litter on the beach or in the sea. It is illegal and environmentally unfriendly. Marine turtles can confuse clear plastic waste with jelly fish and will die if they eat it. - Hand-feeding of fish is discouraged. It disrupts normal feeding patterns. - Hook and line fishing is allowed in the Marine Reserves but prohibited in Marine Parks. Spear guns are not permitted for use in either. - Environmentally friendly activities such as snorkelling and diving are encouraged, under the supervision of the Kenya Wildlife Service wardens, who work closely with tour operators and hoteliers to ensure strict adherence to this code of practice. - Avoid restaurants that serve undersized crabs and lobsters as this contributes to their rapid demise. - Support traditional coastal livelihoods and do not give money to children on the beach, as this can encourage them to stay away from school.
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE
tourism & conservation manual
30 / MANAGING PARKS
Good park management is vital for our future
Wildlife conservation in Kenya has under-
areas were created to preserve geological splen-
gone a long journey of transformation since
dours, historical sites and structures, recreational
independence in 1963. Today, there are 22
spaces around urban areas, lakes and seashores,
national parks and 28 national reserves to
long-distance trails, rivers and places that
conserve our natural and cultural heritage
chronicle the nation’s social history.
By Yussuf Adan Senior Warden, Tsavo East National Park
for the enjoyment of current and future generations.
The role of KWS has greatly expanded. Today, it works in communities across Kenya, helping
The National Parks Management has succeeded
people to preserve their heritage and their
beyond the originators’ wildest dreams. The
recreation lands. Grants and assistance are
parks are meccas for warm-weather vacationists,
offered to save historical places, to create state
an ideal getaway destination for domestic and
and community parks and to build recreation
international tourists, and a place for researchers
facilities.
to rediscover the complex systems of nature. In these days of concern about personal security,
Day-to-day operation
the national parks are considered safe places to
Kenya’s protected areas are clustered in eight
take a family. Kenya is known around the world
regions for ease of management and also
for its wildlife-based tourism, which accounts for
based on their proximity to each other and the
12 per cent of the national economy.
similarity of their ecology (mountain, savannah and marine). Each region has a 10-year manage-
The approach is to improve the visitor experi-
Protected areas
ment plan developed through a Protected Area
ence in the high-use zones while minimising the
Eight per cent of the country’s total land area
Planning Framework (PAPF) and all parks in the
environmental impact by improving driver/guide
is contained in the national parks and reserves
area follow the plan in running their day-to-day
and visitor conduct and offering a greater variety
managed by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). These
activities. The plan sets out strategic guidance on
of tourist attractions and amenities.
management goals and how to achieve them. In addition, it has five management programmes,
Community
each covering a key aspect:
The Community Partnership & Conservation Education Programme is designed to strengthen
• Ecological Management
community support for the park’s programmes
• Tourism Development & Management
and participation in conservation compatible land
• Community Partnership & Conservation
uses across the landscape surrounding the parks.
Education
• Security
The CWS department in each terrestrial park
• Protected Area Operations.
must ensure that mechanisms are in place to
enable parks and communities to work together
hERITAGE
The sound management of parks is a key
for the common good of conservation and
Parks need to adopt the conservation of biodi-
responsibility. Our quality of life, our health and
community well-being.
versity as a core principle and to achieve sustain-
well-being, depend on the protection of nature,
able use and management of resources both in
access to open space and recreation oppor-
sECURITY
policy and practice. Park management should
tunities, and preservation of landmarks that
Wildlife security is of paramount importance
also acknowledge the links between native
illustrate our history. By caring for the parks and
in Kenya, especially since the focus of illegal
cultures and the parks, encourage collaborative
conveying the park ethic, we care for ourselves
activities has now shifted to indiscriminate
and all-inclusive resource management with
and act on behalf of the future. The larger
bushmeat poaching, while the black-market
active community involvement in managing park
purpose of this mission is to build a citizenry that
trophy trade continues to thrive. So the security
and recreation systems and encourage the initia-
is committed to conserving its heritage and its
programme aims to ensure the safety of the
tion of community-managed parks.
home on earth.
natural resources, staff, visitors and assets within the parks by providing really effective security services. The parks have 24-hour security. They also used improved data management to combat wildlife crimes and work with cross-border authorities.
EDUCATION While community awareness and education can win support for wildlife, poverty and the overdependence of communities on natural resources have to be addressed to secure the safe existence of wildlife in the dispersal areas. On the flip side, wildlife may choose to confine itself in safe park areas and avoid areas of high disturbance. Looking to the future, our parks must adopt a positive programme of education and awareness by providing education of students and visitors of all ages, both inside and outside the parks. At a national level, conservation should become a bigger part of the nation’s education system.
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tourism & conservation manual
/ 33
THE wILdLIfE COdE
- Respect the privacy of the wildlife; this is their habitat. - Beware of the 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 antagonise 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 metres 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 6 pm and 6 am unless they are camping overnight. Night game driving is not allowed.
SAfARI CARdS This is a card used at kwS by its visitors to enable them get access to the National Parks, which costs over and above the park entry fee. Safaricards are used to gain access to Nairobi, Amboseli, Tsavo East, Tsavo west, Lake Nakuru and Aberdare National Parks. All other parks and reserves use paper tickets. The card is issued and loaded with money at the Point of Issue (POI) and Point of Sale (POS) respectively and deducted at the park entrance Point of Access (POA). for more information log onto www.kws.go.ke or email safaricard@kws.go.ke
Kenya wiLdLiFe service
tourism & conservation manual
Lake Turkana
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parK Listings 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
aberdare national park amboseli national park arabuko sokoke Forest reserve central island national park chyulu hills national park hells gate national park Kakamega Forest national reserve Kisite Mpunguti Marine park Kisumu impala sanctuary Kiunga Marine reserve Kora national park Lake nakuru national park Malindi Marine national park Marsabit national park & reserve Meru national park Mombasa Marine park Mount elgon national park Mount Longonot national park Mount Kenya national park Mwea national reserve nairobi national park ndere island national park ol donyo sabuk national park ruma national park saiwa swamp national park shimba hills national reserve sibiloi national park tsavo east national park tsavo west national park watamu Marine park
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KENYA
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Lake 22 9 Victoria
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11 15 20
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23 21 10 3 2
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Indian Ocean
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aberdare nationaL parK / Majestic peaks, moorlands and falls Access: Tarmac road from Nyeri and Naro Moru on the eastern side (160 km from Nairobi). Mweiga Airstrip is located next to the park headquarters. Climate: Mist and rain throughout much of the year. Safaricard required: Yes. Activities: Mountain climbing, picnics, trout fishing, game viewing, camping and trekking.
aMboseLi nationaL parK / Kilimanjaro’s royal court Access: The main road into the park is from Nairobi via Namanga (240 km) on the Nairobi-Arusha road. The park has an airstrip for light aircraft. Size/Location: 390 sq km/Loitoktok District, Rift Valley Province. Climate: Temperatures from 20 to 30°C and rainfall from 200 to 700 mm. Safaricard required: Yes
Activities: Game viewing, camping, birdwatching and photography. Wildlife: Leopard, cheetah, wild dog, buffalo, rhino, elephant, giraffe, zebra, lion, crocodile, mongoose, hyrax, dik-dik, lesser kudu and nocturnal porcupine. The prolific birdlife features 600 species.
Wildlife: Large population of black rhino, leopard, serval cat and many endemic bird species. Endangered species include bongo, giant forest hog, packs of wild dogs and mole shrew. Where to stay: The Ark, The Aberdare Country Club, Tree Tops, Ruhuruini, Tusk Camp. Public campsites: Reedbuck, Ruhuruini, Wandare, Shamata.
arabuKo soKoKe Forest reserve / Last large remnant of coastal tropical forests Access: 75 km from Mombasa town. Size/Location: 6 sq km/Between the towns of Kilifi and Malindi Climate: Average annual rainfall from 900 mm to 1,100 mm. Activities: Birdwatching, butterfly spotting, walking trails and game viewing.
duiker, waterbuck, African civet, blotched genet, caracal, Sykes’ monkeys and several bird species. Numerous reptiles including boomslang, green mamba, rock python, forest cobra, sand lizard and day geullo. Where to stay: There is no accommodation in the reserve, however a wide variety is available along the coast to suit all budgets.
Wildlife: Golden-rumped elephant shrew, sokoke bushy-tailed mongoose, Ader’s
centraL isLand nationaL parK / Kingdom of the crocodile Access: 800 km from Nairobi by road. There are two airstrips nearby at Sibiloi. Climate: Hot and dry.
Wildlife: Reptiles, including an estimated 12,000 crocodile, saw-scaled viper, night and puff adder and cobra. There are 84 species of water birds and various birds of prey.
Attractions: Three crater lakes (Crocodile Lake, Flamingo Lake and Tilapia Lake) and an active volcano. Activities: Crocodile hatching and camping.
chyuLu hiLLs nationaL parK / Hemingway’s green hills of Africa Access: Reachable by road from Nairobi or Tsavo West. The park has two airstrips. Size/Location: 741 sq km/Kibwezi District, Eastern Province Climate: Temperature ranges from 20 to 30°C. There are two rainy seasons: the long rains from March to April and short rains in November and December.
Activities: Cave exploration, game viewing, camping, mountain hiking, horse riding and birdwatching. Wildlife: Commonly seen animals include buffalo, bushbuck, eland, elephant, leopard, giant forest hog, bush pig, reedbuck and steinbok. Reptiles include black mamba, puff adder, rock python, gecko and tortoise. Where to stay: The park has three public campsites.
heLLs gate nationaL parK / A walk on the wild side Access: Tarmac road from Nairobi (90 km) via Naivasha or by Naivasha air strip. Size/Location: 68 sq km/Naivasha, Rift Valley Province. Climate: Temperatures from 20 to 30°C and rainfall from 200 to 700 mm.
Wildlife: Buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thomson’s gazelle, giraffe, baboon, serval cat, klipspringer and 103 species of bird. Where to stay: There is no accommodation in the park; although a wide range of accommodation is available in Naivasha and along Moi South Lake Road.
Activities: Game viewing, rock climbing, camping, raptors nesting in cliffs, gorge walk, nature trails and picnicking.
KaKaMega Forest nationaL reserve / Canopy of natural beauty Access: 415 km from Nairobi by road, via Nakuru and Kapsabet. Size/Location: 44 sq km/Western Province. Climate: Temperature ranges from 20 to 30°C and rainfall from 200 to 700 mm. Two rainy seasons: long rains from March to April and short rains in November and December. Activities: Birdwatching, butterfly spotting and primate watching.
Wildlife: Bush pig, duiker, bushbuck, clawless otter, mongoose, giant water shrew, squirrel, tree pangolin, porcupine, bats and primates (including the endangered DeBrazza’s monkey). Where to stay: Various campsites and KWS self-catered accommodation located in the park.
Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park / Home to the dolphins, coconut crab Access: Tour company boats and local community dhows from Shimoni. Size/Location: 39 sq km/South coast. Climate: Humid. Activities: Snorkelling, diving and birdwatching.
Marine life: More than 250 recorded fish species, dolphins, sea turtles, whales, corals, sea grass, endemic coconut crab and gastropods. Where to stay: Currently no accommodation in the reserve. Visitors can stay in Diani town which offers various accommodation options.
Kisumu Impala Sanctuary / A lakeshore walk with impalas Access: 355 km north of Nairobi. Flights from Nairobi take around one hour. Size: Less than 1 sq km.
Where to stay: No accommodation within the park. Visitors can stay in Kisumu town which offers plenty of accommodation options.
Climate: Hot and humid. Activities: Game viewing,and picnicking. Wildlife: Leopard, hyena, olive baboon, vervet monkey, impala, jackal, ostrich and hippo.
Kiunga Marine Reserve / Enchanted underwater world Access: Kiunga is a remote, unspoilt village on the mainland about 150 km by road east of Lamu.
Marine life: Sea turtles, olive ridley and leatherback turtles, reef fish, lobsters, sea urchins, sea stars and crabs.
Size/Location: 270 sq km/Lamu District, Coast province.
Where to stay: Munira Island Camp, Kiwayu Safari Village, 2 km north of Kiwayu village, this is a group of simple Bandas with restaurant and bar facilities.
Climate: Humid. Activities: Windsurfing, diving, snorkelling, water-skiing and sunbathing.
Lake Nakuru National Park / A birdwatchers’ paradise Access: A tarmac road connecting to Nairobi (156 km). The Naishi airstrip services the park. Size/Location: 188 sq km/Nakuru, Rift Valley Province. 160 km north-west of Nairobi Climate: Temperatures from 20 to 30°C and rainfall from 200 to 700 mm. Activities: Game viewing, birdwatching and camping.
Wildlife: Flamingo, rhino, leopard, lion, hyena and buffalo and nearly 450 species of terrestrial birds. Where to stay: Lake Nakuru Lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Lodge. Campsites; Chui, Rhino, Soysambu, Nyati, Nyuki and Reedbuck. Public campsites; Makalia and Backpackers. Self-catering; Naishi House. Accommodation is also available outside the park.
Malindi Marine National Park / Africa’s oldest marine park Access: 110 km north of Mombasa. By air: Malindi Airport.
bottomed boat, nature walks, snorkelling and diving.
Location: South-eastern Kenya.
Marine life: Crabs, corals, sea urchins, jellyfish, sea stars, sea cucumbers, fish, turtle and dolphins.
Climate: Temperatures from 20 to 30°C and rainfall from 200 to 700 mm. Long rains from March to April and short rains in November and December. Activities: Swimming, boat excursions, trips to the tidal island of Manyugu, glass-
Where to stay: Currently no accommodation in the reserve. Visitors can stay in Malindi town which offers various accommodation options.
Marsabit National Park & Reserve / The misty mountain paradise Access: From Nairobi, reachable via Nanyuki and lsiolo (620 km). Airstrip at Marsabit, 4 km from the main gate.
Activities: Game viewing, birdwatching safaris, camel safaris, community visits and camping.
Size/Location: 1,554 sq km/Marsabit District, Eastern Province.
Wildlife: Elephant, buffalo, greater kudu, hyena, Grevy’s zebra, Kirk’s dik-dik, reticulated giraffe, lion, leopard and baboon.
Climate: January to March is hot and dry, April to June is hot and wet, July to October is warm and dry and November and December are warm and wet.
Where to stay: Marsabit Lodge and two public campsites.
Meru/kora National Park / Complete wilderness Access: 348 km from Nairobi via NyeriNanyuki-Meru. Size/Location: 870 sq km/North-east of Mount Kenya in Meru District of Eastern Province. Climate: Semi-arid with irregular rainfall. Activities: Game viewing and camping.
Wildlife: Zebra, elephant, eland, bush pig, waterbuck, cheetah, leopard, reticulated giraffe, hippo, bohor reedbuck, hartebeest, python, puff adder, cobra, buffalo and over 300 recorded species of birds. Where to stay: Elsa’s Kopje, Leopard Rock Lodge, a number of KWS self-catering options and camping facilities.
Mombasa Marine Park / Popular snorkelling and diving location Location: Mombasa Climate: Hot and humid. Attractions: Dive sites, coral gardens and Mombasa beach. Activities: Diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, water-skiing and other water sports.
Marine life: Crabs, corals, sea urchins, jellyfish, sea stars and sea cucumbers.
Mount Elgon National Park / Untamed wilderness, secluded splendour Access: Mount. Elgon is located 420 km from Nairobi. Access is via tarmac road via Kitale. There is also an airstrip in the park. Size/Location: 196 sq km/Western border of Kenya with Uganda, in Trans-Nzoia District of Rift Valley Province. Climate: Moist to moderate dry.
Wildlife: Elephant, leopard, giant forest hog, bushbuck, buffalo, duiker, black and white colobus, blue monkey, golden cat and more than 240 bird species including the African crowned eagle, Ross’s turaco and red-fronted parrot. Where to stay: There are three public campsites and self-catered accommodation.
Activities: Mountain climbing, horse riding, picnicking, camping and birdwatching.
Mount Longonot National Park / Sheer adventure Access: Accessible via a tarmac road from Nairobi (90 km). Size/Location: 52 sq km/Naivasha, Rift Valley Province. Climate: Temperature ranges from 20° to 30°C and rainfall from 200 to 700 mm. Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, biking, walking and viewing Lake Naivasha.
Wildlife: Buffalo, gazelle, impala, giraffe, eland, lion, leopard, bushbuck, zebra, Grant’s gazelle and Thomson’s gazelle. Where to stay: There is no accommodation in the park; although a wide range of accommodations options are available in Naivasha town and along Moi South Lake Road.
Mount Kenya National Park / Come touch the sky Access: 175 km from Nairobi, the park can be reached on Nanyuki-Isiolo road via Sirimon Track or Nyeri-Nanyuki road near Naro Moru. There is an airstrip at Nanyuki. Size/Location: 2,800 sq km/east of the Rift Valley. Climate: Varies with altitude.
Wildlife: Elephant, tree hyrax, white-tailed mongoose, suni, black-fronted duiker, mole rat, bushbuck, waterbuck and eland. Rarely seen animals include leopard, bongo, giant forest hog and rhino. Where to stay: Batian Guesthouse and Sirimon Bandas. Numerous camping facilities and public campsites.
Activities: Game viewing, camping, mountain climbing and cave exploration.
Mwea National Reserve / An undiscovered oasis of tranquillity Access: 160 km from Nairobi, via ThikaMatuu-Masinga Dam. By Air: Masinga airstrip near Masinga lodge. Size/Location: 42 sq km/Mbeere District, Eastern Province. Climate: Semi-arid. Activities: Game viewing, boat rides at Kamburu Dam and walking circuits.
Wildlife: Elephant, lesser kudu, Nile crocodile, hippo, giraffe, Burchell’s zebra, buffalo, leopard, grey duiker, black-backed jackal, bushbuck, waterbuck, olive baboon, Sykes’ monkey, serval cat and spotted hyena. Where to stay: There are no lodges, tented camps or self-catering accommodation options in Mwea. Masinga Lodge (located at Masinga Dam) and a number of camping facilities can be found outside the reserve.
Nairobi National Park / The world’s only wildlife capital Access: 10 km South of Nairobi City Centre. Size/Location: 117 sq km/Nairobi Province. Climate: January-March is hot and dry, April-June is hot and wet, and July-October is very warm and wet. Safaricard required: Yes Facilities: Bush dinners, weddings, picnics, team building sessions and film production.
Activities: Game viewing, corporate/ special events, Three-star Rangers Restaurant. Wildlife: Animals include buffalo, giraffe, lion, leopard, baboon, zebra, wildebeest and cheetah. There are 100 mammal species and 400 migratory and endemic bird species. Where to stay: No in-park accommodation. Plenty of accommodation to choose from in the city of Nairobi.
Ndere Island National Park / Island of serenity and beauty Access: Access to the park can be by road or boat from Kisumu. Kisumu Airport is 60 km away. Location: Kisumu District of Nyanza Province.
Activities: Walking and game viewing. Wildlife: African fish eagle, hippo, impala and Nile crocodile. Where to stay: There are two campsites within the park.
Climate: Hot and humid. Facilities: Well maintained walking trails.
Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park / Ultimate panoramic experience
Climate: January to March is hot and dry, April to June hot and wet, July to October very warm and dry, November and December warm and wet.
Wildlife: Buffalo, leopard, mongoose, bushbuck, olive baboon, colobus monkey, vervet monkey, Sykes’ monkey, Kirk’s dik-dik, bush pig, common duiker, reedbuck, rock hyrax, bushbaby, tree and ground squirrel, aardvark, porcupine, python and monitor lizard. More than 45 species of birds.
Activities: Game viewing, picnics, camping and mountain climbing.
Where to stay: Sabuk Guesthouse, Turacco Public Campsite.
Access: 85 km north-east of Nairobi by road. Size/Location: 20.7 sq km/Eastern Province.
Ruma National Park / Last retreat of the roan antelope Access: Main access is from Kisumu via Homa Bay – 140 km. Size/Location: 120 sq km/western Kenya close to the shores of Lake Victoria. Climate: Hot and humid. Activities: Game viewing, birdwatching, picnicking, camping and team building exercises.
Wildlife: Roan antelope, leopard, buffalo, hyena, Rothschild’s giraffe, oribi, Jackson’s and Lelwel hartebeest, impala, bohor reedbuck, serval cat, topi, baboon, vervet monkey, honey badger and bush pig. Where to stay: Two campsites, Nyati campsite which is a special campsite and Fig tree campsite which is a public campsite and a backpacker’s haven.
Saiwa Swamp National Park / Sitatunga’s aquatic domain Access: 22 km from Kitale on the KitaleKapenguria tarmac road. Kitale airstrip is 22 km away from the park. Size/Location: 2.9 sq km/Trans Nzoia District, Rift Valley Province Climate: Ranges from warm to cool and humid.
Activities: Game viewing and camping. Wildlife: Sitatunga, monkey, otter, genet cat, serval cat, mongoose, bushbuck and ratel. Where to stay: Tree Top House, Sirikwa Tented Camp and camping facilities.
Shimba Hills National Reserve / The Paradise of Sable Antelope Access: Take the Likoni ferry from Mombasa, take the road climbing to Kwale Town (C106). The main gate is 3 km from Kwale. Size/Location: 300 sq km/33 km South of Mombasa, in Kwale district of Coast Province. Climate: Hot and humid. Activities: Game viewing, camping and trekking.
Wildlife: The endangered sable antelope, elephant, giraffe, leopard, genet, civet cat, hyena, waterbuck, bush pig, buffalo, African bush baby, bushbuck, coastal black and white colobus monkey. Where to stay: Shimba Hills Lodge Block Hotels, KWS self-catering accommodation, there are four public campsites.
Sibiloi National Park / Cradle of mankind, Garden of Eden Access: 800 km north of Nairobi. There are also two all-weather strips. Size/Location: 1,570 sq km/Lake Turkana, Marsabit District, Eastern Province. Climate: Hot and arid. Activities: Game viewing, camping, archaeological safaris and bird watching.
Wildlife: Zebra, Grant’s gazelle, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, topi, greater kudu, hippo, lion, cheetah, leopard, striped hyena and silver-backed jackal. The world’s largest population of Nile crocodile breeds on Lake Turkana Central Island. Where to stay: Oasis Lodge, Lobolo Tented Camp, self-catering accommodation, two public campsites.
Tsavo East National Park / Theatre of the wild Access: 233 km south of Nairobi and 250 km north of Mombasa on the main NairobiMombasa road. There are three airstrips in the park. Size/Location: 13, 747 sq km/South East Kenya, inland from the coast. Climate: Warm and dry. Safaricard required: Yes
Activities: Game viewing, camping, trekking and birdwatching. Wildlife: Elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, hippo, crocodile, waterbuck, kudu, gerenuk and hirola. Where to stay: Voi Safari Lodge, Kingfisher Tented Camp, Ndololo Tented Camp, Satao Camp, Epiya Chapeya Tented Camp, Patterson’s Safari Camp, Aruba Ashnil and public campsite, Ndololo.
Tsavo West National Park / Land of lava, springs and man-eaters Access: 240 km south of Nairobi/250 km north of Mombasa on the main NairobiMombasa road. There also are three airstrips. Size/Location: 9065 sq km/South Eastern Kenya, inland from Mombasa. Climate: Warm and dry. Safaricard required: Yes Activities: Game viewing, camping, cave
exploration, underwater hippo watching. Wildlife: Elephant, rhino, hippo, lion, cheetah, leopard, buffalo, diverse plant and bird species including the threatened corncrake and Basra reed warbler. Where to stay: Ngulia Safari Lodge, Kilaguni Safari Serena Lodge, Kitani Severin Safari Camp/ Lodge, Finch Hatton’s Tented Lodge, Voyager Safari Camp, KWS selfcatering and three public campsites.
Watamu Marine National Reserve / Haven for turtle, coral gardens and Mida Creek Access: By road Watamu is 120 km north of Mombasa and 28 km south of Malindi.
Activities: Windsurfing, snorkelling, waterskiing, diving and glass bottom boat.
Size/Location: 10 sq km/ North Coast, Malindi.
Marine life: Fish, turtles, dugongs, crabs and over 100 species of birds.
Climate: Humid.
Where to stay: There is currently no accommodation in the reserve, a wide range of options exist in nearby Malindi town.
Major attractions: Green turtle, unique coral gardens, Mida Creek, the Kipepeo Butterfly Project and the Gede ruins.
P.O. Box 40241 – 00100 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: + 254 (20) 399 1000/399 2000 Email: marketing@kws.go.ke www.kws.go.ke
Kenya_Wildlife
Kenya Wildlife Service
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