The Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, which is smaller than 1km2 in size and is located within Kisumu city, sits on the beaches of Lake Victoria. The facility was officially opened in 1992. The sanctuary was dubbed “a lakefront walk with impalas” when it opened its doors in March 2010. Flora (trees, grass, and plants) and fauna (animals) are abundant, both in their natural habitat and in captivity. More than 115 different bird species have been identified. Currently, the sanctuary is home to all of the big five game species, except for the elephant. Various nature path circuits are also available for clients to choose from.
In November, the sanctuary organizes the Kisumu Impala Conservation Boat Race event to raise awareness about wildlife, particularly the rare sitatunga antelope on the endangered species list.
Aside from offering nature viewing and boating opportunities, the sanctuary is an important site for ecological and wildlife research and teaching.
Wildlife
Lions, African leopards, cape buffaloes, olive baboons, hyenas, Tanzanian cheetahs, side-striped jackals, rescued grey parrots, guinea fowls, impalas, leopard tortoises, and vervet monkeys are among the animals that may be found at the sanctuary. There are also numerous snakes, monitor lizards, dragonflies, frogs, and butterflies to be found.
The sanctuary also serves as a significant source of open grazing for the hippopotamus population and a haven for the endangered sitatunga antelope, which may be found in the neighboring marshes.
Facilities
Visitors to the sanctuary can choose from various types of accommodations to suit their needs, ranging from the Impala eco-safari lodge, which has a capacity of 24 beds, to one campground (State Lodge Campsite). In addition, there are four picnic areas. The Sundowner Tower, which overlooks the railway track and provides a breathtaking view of the sunset over Lake Superior, the world’s second-biggest freshwater lake, is a must-see attraction.