Kisumu Impala Sanctuary stands as a captivating haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique blend of scenic beauty and rich biodiversity along the shores of Lake Victoria, Kenya's most iconic lake and the world's second-largest freshwater lake. This sanctuary, sprawling over a modest area, provides a tranquil escape into nature, where visitors can immerse themselves in the serenity and marvel at the harmonious coexistence of various animal species.
The sanctuary is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the graceful impalas after which it is named, and serves as a protective zone for other endangered and freely roaming animals such as zebras, giraffes, and the elusive leopard. Birdwatchers are in for a treat as well, with the sanctuary hosting numerous bird species, making it a vibrant spot for birding activities.
Kisumu Impala Sanctuary also plays a critical role in conservation efforts, offering a safe haven for animals and a breeding ground for the endangered Sitatunga antelope, among others. It is a place where visitors can learn about the importance of wildlife conservation and the delicate balance of ecosystems.
With its well-maintained walking trails and picnic sites, the sanctuary provides an ideal setting for educational tours, leisurely walks, and family outings. The opportunity to explore the sanctuary by boat adds an adventurous twist to the experience, allowing guests to enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Victoria and its surroundings from a different perspective.
Cultural enthusiasts will find Kisumu Impala Sanctuary equally appealing, as it offers insights into the local Luo community's culture and traditions, enriching visitors' understanding of the area's cultural heritage.
Not a bad way to spend a couple of hours but:
- It is very overpriced for foreigners ($22 USD)
- Entry can only be purchased with a Kenyan eCitizen account which is unnecessarily complex and only seems to work in Chrome with pop ups enabled.
- There’s no maps and practically no signage inside the park save for a small description on the enclosures
- The roaming Zebra’s were cool but I expected more Impalas
Tony Mwati
5
Reviewed: 2022-10-30
It's a quiet, calm place to walk around. They have allowed the zebras to roam freely. Amongst the caged animals are, ostrich, Warthog,lions,leopard, monkeys,baboons and many more. The entrance fee is 250 per head for adults. You can also have a boat ride at the park.
Mina Gavell
4
Reviewed: 2022-08-02
The grounds are lovely. Situated right on the lake, you can enjoy the sparkling blue water while zebras graze freely and monkeys frolic. The captive animals are quite stunning as well and easy to spot. My only criticism is that while most of the habitats were spacious and enhanced with trees and such, some seemed a bit small and lacked shade or greenery.
Zuhura Miriam
4
Reviewed: 2021-05-28
Awesome place for a nature walk. A few caged animals with a history but not so much. Atleast the king of the jungle rules there.
You can get a boat ride into the lake.
Affordable rates.
It's ok for a picnic but you may have to share it with the monkeys.
It's not a big place to run wild but the air is awesome.
Do not carry plastic bottles... We are keeping the place clean.
Do NOT feed the animals.
Oh.. plenty of hyacinths.
Overall.. it's an awesome place for you and your family especially the children to learn a thing or two about animals.
Esther O
5
Reviewed: 2018-09-26
Great place to see some of our wildlife in captivity. It's a bit expansive. Walking around the sanctuary took me about 1-1/2 hours so come prepared with water and a snack. It borders the lake so at most points you can see the lake. It has around 4 picnic sites with wooden benches to sit and enjoy a meal. You can also get boat rides onto the lake. There is also a railway line trail but I didn't go down the trail....