All Parks & Reserves

Ndere Island National Park

A small island park in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria

  • Country Kenya
  • Park type National Park
  • Size 4 km²
  • Established 1986
  • Best months June to October and January to February
Where to stay

Where to stay in Ndere Island National Park

We haven't added glamping stays in Ndere Island National Park yet. We're adding new camps every week.

Browse all glamping stays →

Ndere Island National Park guide

Overview

Ndere Island National Park covers about 4.2 km² in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria, about 30 km from Kisumu. It was gazetted in 1986.

The island is covered in grassland and woodland, with rocky shores and views over the lake.

Visitors reach Ndere by boat for walks and birdwatching. There are few facilities.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Wildlife

Impala, hippo, crocodile and monitor lizards live on and around the island.

Birds

The island is good for waterbirds, including fish eagles and kingfishers.

Best Time to Visit

Short answer: June to October and January to February, during the dry seasons.

MonthsSeasonWhat to expect
Jan – FebShort dry seasonWarm, dry and good for game viewing.
Mar – MayLong rainsGreen and quiet. Some tracks can be muddy.
Jun – OctLong dry seasonThe best game viewing and the busiest time.
Nov – DecShort rainsAfternoon showers and green landscapes.

Hire a boat in Kisumu and set out early, when the lake is calmer.

Getting There

By air

Airport Best for Notes
Kisumu International (KIS) Domestic flights About 30 minutes by road to the jetty, then a boat ride.

By road

Boats to the island can be hired from Kisumu.

Entrance & Fees

Kenya Wildlife Service charges a daily conservation fee per person, paid electronically through eCitizen. Ndere Island is in the special interest category.

VisitorAdultChild / student
Non-residentUS$40US$20
African citizenUS$20US$10
Kenyan residentKSh 675KSh 350
East African citizenKSh 500KSh 250

Boat hire is extra. Confirm the current rates on the KWS website before you go.

Fees last checked October 2026 against the KWS conservation fees schedule (October 2025).

Location

Official Website →