Where to stay in Saiwa Swamp National Park
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Overview
Saiwa Swamp National Park covers about 2.9 km² in Trans-Nzoia County, near Kitale in western Kenya. It was gazetted in 1974.
The park was set up to protect the sitatunga, a shy antelope that lives in swamps. It’s made of reedbeds and swamp forest along the Saiwa river.
Visitors walk the trails and boardwalks and watch from raised platforms. Vehicles aren’t used inside the park.
Wildlife & Biodiversity
Sitatunga
Sitatunga are the park’s main attraction. Early morning and evening are the best times to see them.
Other wildlife
De Brazza’s monkeys, black-and-white colobus and otters are also found here.
Birds
The swamp and forest are excellent for birds.
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: December to March and June to September, in the drier months.
| Months | Season | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Dec – Mar | Dry season | Warm and drier. The best time for walking and birding. |
| Apr – May | Long rains | Heavy rain. Tracks can be muddy. |
| Jun – Sep | Mid-year | Mostly dry and pleasant. |
| Oct – Nov | Short rains | Afternoon showers and green landscapes. |
Go early in the morning to see sitatunga from the platforms.
Getting There
By air
| Airport | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kitale (KTL) | Domestic flights | Flights from Nairobi. |
| Eldoret International (EDL) | Domestic flights | About 1.5 hours by road. |
By road
From Kitale, drive north towards Kapenguria. The park is signposted off the road.
Entrance & Fees
Kenya Wildlife Service charges a daily conservation fee per person, paid electronically through eCitizen. Saiwa Swamp is in the special interest category.
| Visitor | Adult | Child / student |
|---|---|---|
| Non-resident | US$40 | US$20 |
| African citizen | US$20 | US$10 |
| Kenyan resident | KSh 675 | KSh 350 |
| East African citizen | KSh 500 | KSh 250 |
Confirm the current rates on the KWS website before you go.
Fees last checked October 2026 against the KWS conservation fees schedule (October 2025).
