Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve

Location and Size:

• Located on the southern coast of Kenya, in Kwale District, Coast Province.
• Lies 11 km off the Kenyan Coast (at Shimoni) and 8 km north of the Tanzanian border.
• Approximately 90 km south of Mombasa and about 574 km from Nairobi.
• Comprises two distinct areas:
  • Kisite Marine National Park: 28 square kilometers (11 sq mi). Strictly for non-consumptive use.
  • Mpunguti Marine National Reserve: 11 square kilometers (4.2 sq mi). Hook and line fishing is allowed.
• Encompasses four small islands surrounded by coral reefs.

Marine Life:

• A biodiversity hotspot, renowned for its abundant and diverse marine life.
• Home to approximately 250 recorded fish species, including triggerfish, moray eels, angelfish, butterfly fish, groupers, parrotfish, wrasses, scorpionfish, pufferfish, and damselfish.
• Significant populations of marine mammals, including around 70 resident dolphins (spinner, humpback, and bottlenose dolphins) and seasonal migrations of humpback whales and whale sharks (July to December).
• Important sea turtle populations, including green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles.
• Rich coral gardens with over 56 genera of corals.
• Seagrass beds and gastropods are also present.

Birdlife:

• Kisite Island is an Important Bird Area (IBA), hosting large nesting colonies of many seabirds.
• Internationally significant numbers of roseate terns and crab-plovers are found here, especially during their breeding season (July to September).

Key Features and Attractions:

• Coral Reefs: Pristine and extensive fringing reefs offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Often described as an underwater explosion of colors.
• Dolphin Watching: A major attraction, with frequent sightings of various dolphin species.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Considered one of the most rewarding locations on the Kenyan coast due to the clear waters and vibrant marine life.
• Kisite Island: Important breeding ground for seabirds. Features flat, rocky terrain with sandy beaches exposed at low tide.
• Mpunguti Islands (Juu, Chini, Liwe la Jahazi): Densely forested. Mpunguti Chini Island is home to endemic coconut crabs.
• Wasini Island: Located near the park, offering a picturesque sculptured rocky coastline, baobab trees, and the “Wasini Women’s Boardwalk” through petrified coral gardens and mangrove swamps.
• Shimoni Slave Caves: Nearby historical site offering a contrast to the marine wonders.

Activities:

• Snorkeling and scuba diving.
• Boat excursions and dolphin watching tours.
• Birdwatching on Kisite Island.
• Visits to Wasini Island and the coral gardens.
• Cultural tours to Shimoni and nearby villages.
• Visits to the Shimoni Slave Caves.

Accessibility:

• Road: Approximately 90 km from Mombasa along the Mombasa Road.
• Air: Via Moi International Airport in Mombasa or Ukunda Airstrip.
• Rail: Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Nairobi to Mombasa, then connect by road.
• The park itself is only accessible by boat from Shimoni.

Best Time to Visit:

• The park is open year-round.
• Snorkeling and diving are good throughout the year, but the sea can be rough between April and July during the southeast monsoon winds.
• It’s advisable to visit the park from 08:00 hrs onwards.

Important Considerations:

• Respect the marine wildlife code: Do not touch anything underwater, do not damage or remove corals or shells, and do not litter.
• Be aware that some marine life can be dangerous.
• Support sustainable tourism practices and avoid restaurants serving undersized seafood.
• Respect the local culture and ask for permission before taking pictures of people.

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve is a true gem, offering a pristine and diverse marine ecosystem for unforgettable underwater experiences and wildlife encounters.