KENYA SAFARI

Saiwa Swamp National Park 

Saiwa Swamp National Park lies not far from Mount Elgon and only 24 kilometers from Kitale with a size of 190 hectares. Created primarily for the protection of the rare Sitatunga antelope, the Saiwa Swamp National Park is a perfect example of how a small area can survive as a complete ecological entity. The semi-aquatic Sitatunga relying on a swamp habitat has evolved to survive in such conditions and despite the minute size of Saiwa Swamp National Park, it seems certain to continue to thrive there.  The sitatunga is a swamp-dwelling antelope found in Central and East Africa. It is about one and a half meters tall. It has a water-proof coat that is dark brown in males and reddish brown in females. Their hooves are long and thin to cope with the Sitatunga's swampy habitat. Males have a mane as well as horns, which are twisted and can reach almost a meter in length. Other small numbers of Sitatunga in Kenya are being conserved in Lewa. The Sitatunga at Saiwa Swamp National Park is sufficiently numerous to ensure seeing them. In addition, there are De Brazza, Colobus and Vervet monkeys and an exciting variety of birds. Some 250 species have been noted in this small area. No vehicles are allowed in the park so this is another bonus as it is one of the few parks in which walking is permitted or in this case mandatory. Saiwa Swamp National Park has around 15+ kilometers of walking trails. It also has four observation towers, where AfricanMecca guests have a birds eye view of the swamp. There are platforms built into trees overlooking the swamp, provided of course, for Sitatunga watchers but also a splendid perch in which to contemplate nature's glory. There are several home stay accommodation experiences in the area.