Safaris & tours to Kisumu impala Sanctuary – “A Lakeshore Walk with the Impalas” Set on the shore of Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa, the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary is a peaceful, relaxing place to enjoy the natural beauty that abounds here. The sanctuary hosts impalas, the rare Sitatunga antelope as well as big cats, buffalos, giraffes, cheetahs and several primate species. The sanctuary is also home to five campsites all with spectacular views of Lake Victoria. Bird watching, nature walks and glass bottomed boat rides compliment the activities availed at the sanctuary.
It’s always delighted to be back at Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, and it truly does not disappoint. As you entered the gate, an African-pied Wagtail seemed to lead the way along the main path. you make a brief stopover to read the park rules and regulations and the ranger reminded us to adhere to them.
A pair of Hadada ibis seemed to announce our arrival as they flew to Albizia Picnic Site that was rather quiet and peaceful with very few visitors. Our guide and designated ranger explained that the sanctuary was established in 1987 as a home for impalas that were roaming in Kisumu and was placed under the management of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in 1992.
The sanctuary occupies a small area of 0.34 square kilometers and is a remnant of an indigenous forest along the shoreline of the lake consisting of three types of vegetation including: marine, savanna and grassland. Following the park’s theme, it is genuinely a lakeshore walk with impalas; easy crossed along the main path to browse for food. Burchell’s zebra and Masai giraffes seems to enjoy each other’s company.
We walked past the Sunset Picnic Site, State Lodge Campsite, Simba Picnic Site, and Impala Picnic Site and made a brief stopover at the Railway Trail for some photos and later the Baboon Picnic Site. Public washrooms are strategically positioned for use and signage has been used appropriately placed for ease throughout the sanctuary.
We made a courtesy visit to Jambo Impala Eco-lodge that is located on the shores of the lake. As we left the park, bird, looking through my binoculars I saw it was a female sunbird though it was challenging to identify the specific species.