KISITE MPUNGUTI MARINE NATIONAL PARK DETAILS
Situated on the southern coast of Kenya near Shimoni and south of Wasini Island in Kwale District, Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park is the perfect destination for anyone who loves marine activities like snorkeling in and around the coral reefs, sunbathing and scuba diving enthusiasts. The park has a great variety of marine life, coral formations, dolphins and turtles. It was founded in 1978. Its establishment was primarily to preserve its spectacular islands and also protect several of its endemic marine life as well as serve as a breeding ground for most migratory bird species. The park covers an area with four small islands surrounded by coral reef. Kisite island is covered in low grass and herbs while Mpunguti island has dense coastal equatorial forest. The Park is open all year round, and can only be reached by boat.
Marine Life
The sun-kissed marine park boasts a diverse abundance of marine life and is often considered the home of dolphins. Visitors can enjoy access to incredible nature. Among the marine life, there are dolphins, humpback whales, whale sharks, angelfish, triggerfish, groupers, puffer fish, and rays. The marine park is also famous for its turtle population, with green and hawksbill turtles spotted regularly. Other species that can be sighted while exploring the marine national park include octopus, clams, sea cucumbers, reef sharks among others. Between August and October, humpback migratory whale sharks are spotted here.
Activities in Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park
There are several activities that tourists engage in once on a tour in Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park. They include the following;
- Snorkeling
Snorkel in the clear waters of Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and Reserve. This is a unique experience which enables gives an opportunity to observe underwater life in a natural setting without the complicated equipment and training required for Scuba diving. It appeals to all ages because it does not require a lot of effort. The marine park and reserve is one of the most rewarding snorkeling locations at the coast.
- Diving
Diving in the marine park is so spectacular because of the variety of dive sites, fish and corals. Both beginners and advanced divers will find something here to enjoy. There are different diving spots for both beginners and experienced divers providing maximum satisfaction to tourists. With almost year-round diving conditions, any time is a great time to dive.
- Bird watching
Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve is majorly known for its diverse species of sea birds thus making it a unique birding site for birders on safari in Kenya to explore. Apart from the Marine Life, Kisite Island is an Important Bird Area, with many seabirds arriving in July for breeding. Of these arrivals, the island’s habitat supports the breeding colonies of roseate and sooty terns and the crab-plover.
- Humpback whale Migration
One of the best views is watching the humpback whale migration. This happens along the Kenyan coast in early June as the whales make their migration from the Antarctica. Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve is a perfect area in Kenya for you to explore most of the marine species thus offering a unique marine life viewing experience.
Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park & Reserve entry fees
The entry fees for adult citizens is 200Ksh while Children is 100ksh. The same price applies to resident Adult and child respectively. Non residents Adults are required to pay 15 USD while children pay 10 USD.