Africana Yard - Saiwa Swamp National Park

Africana Yard is a hotel near Saiwa Swamp National Park.

Location
Saiwa Swamp National Park, Rift Valley Lakes, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
1.010923, 35.007230
Elevation
1,885m
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 22/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

189 species observed within 20 km, 14 mammals, 79 birds.

  • De Brazza's Monkey (Mammalia, 18 observations)
  • Mantled Guereza (Mammalia, 18 observations)
  • Sitatunga (Mammalia, 13 observations)
  • Vervet Monkey (Mammalia, 9 observations)
  • Gray Crowned-Crane (Aves, 8 observations)
  • Long-crested Eagle (Aves, 6 observations)
  • African Thrush (Aves, 6 observations)
  • Common Bulbul (Aves, 6 observations)
  • Little Pansy (Insecta, 6 observations)
  • Speckled Mousebird (Aves, 5 observations)

Best Time to Visit Africana Yard

The best months to visit Africana Yard are February, March, December, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 17.92°C, rainfall 56.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 61.6%
  • February: Great, temperature 18.83°C, rainfall 32.7mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 59.7%
  • March: Great, temperature 18.97°C, rainfall 76.8mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 63.3%
  • April: Good, temperature 18.01°C, rainfall 218.1mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 75.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 17.41°C, rainfall 198mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 79.1%
  • June: Good, temperature 16.78°C, rainfall 136.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • July: Good, temperature 16.28°C, rainfall 238.6mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 16.44°C, rainfall 241.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 79.7%
  • September: Good, temperature 16.91°C, rainfall 245.2mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • October: Good, temperature 17.37°C, rainfall 209.7mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 75.6%
  • November: Good, temperature 17.16°C, rainfall 124.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 75%
  • December: Great, temperature 17.67°C, rainfall 23.3mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 64.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique wildlife can I expect to see at Saiwa Swamp National Park near Africana Yard?

Saiwa Swamp National Park is renowned as the only park in Kenya established specifically to protect the endangered Sitatunga antelope, a semi-aquatic species. Visitors staying at Africana Yard can also expect to see various primates like the De Brazza's monkey, colobus monkeys, and a rich diversity of birdlife within the swampy habitat.

What is the best time of year to visit Africana Yard and Saiwa Swamp National Park?

The best time to visit Africana Yard and Saiwa Swamp National Park is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to October. This period offers easier wildlife spotting, particularly for the rare Sitatunga antelope, as vegetation is less dense and animals congregate around water sources.

What activities are available at Africana Yard, and how do I access Saiwa Swamp National Park?

Africana Yard primarily offers comfortable accommodation and dining services as a hotel near the park entrance. To access Saiwa Swamp National Park, guests typically arrange walks with KWS rangers directly at the park gate, as it is a walking-only park with no vehicle game drives.

What are the typical costs associated with visiting Saiwa Swamp National Park from Africana Yard?

Visitors to Saiwa Swamp National Park will incur Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) park entry fees, which vary for citizens, residents, and non-residents. It's advisable to budget for these fees, and potentially a local guide or ranger escort, as the park is best explored on foot with expert guidance.

Is it safe to explore Saiwa Swamp National Park on foot, and what precautions should I take?

Exploring Saiwa Swamp National Park on foot is generally safe, especially when accompanied by a Kenya Wildlife Service ranger, which is highly recommended. Always stick to designated trails, wear appropriate walking shoes, and carry water to ensure a comfortable and secure experience in the swampy terrain.

Other Safari Lodges in Saiwa Swamp National Park

Parks in Rift Valley Lakes

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya