Kisumu Impala Sanctuary

Set on the shore of Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa,Opposite Kisumu South Water Company, Harambee Rd is the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary.covering less than 1km. The facility was gazetted in 1992. In March 2010, the sanctuary was branded as ‘a lakeshore walk with impalas'.The entrance fees Citizens sh.215,Residents Sh.300 and Non Resident $22.Opening hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm everyday.

I visited the sanctuary on a Tuesday,I was in the city visiting some of my friends,and yes i have friends in Kisumu since i had attended University there.All in all i had never actually visited the sanctuary the entire time i had lived in Kisumu.The Sanctuary is a peaceful, relaxing place to enjoy the natural beauty that abounds here. It hosts impalas, the rare Sitatunga antelope as well as big cats, buffalos, giraffes, cheetahs and several primate species.

It is also home to five campsites all with spectacular views of Lake Victoria. Bird watching, nature walks and glass bottomed boat rides complement the activities availed at the sanctuary.It provides an ideal refuge away from Kisumu’s busy and noisy town centre.

Within the Sanctuary is also Ecolodge Hotel which shares the same entrance but is a drive past to the end of the park.So if one would like to live within the hotel they can get a view of the animals while enjoying the leisure and comfort the hotel has to offer.

The Park has open grazing for the Sitatunga antelope,impalas and zebras.so you can take a picture next to them.Although you will not be able to touch them since they run off when you get too close to them.You can also get to take pictures with the cheetah which i was told was friendly.I was too frightened about the idea so i chickened out even after a tour guide offered to take The views are amazing and if you are one who loves picnics or camping.This is the best place for it.