Kiunga Marine National Reserve: A Coastal Jewel in Kenya
Kiunga Marine National Reserve, situated along the Indian Ocean coast in Lamu District, Coast Province, Kenya, is a coastal haven teeming with natural beauty and marine diversity. Covering 270 square kilometers, this reserve comprises calcareous isles, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. Here’s a closer look at what Kiunga Marine National Reserve has to offer:
Key Features:
- Calcareous Isles and Coral Reefs:
- Approximately fifty calcareous isles and coral reefs.
- Sheer walls rising from the seabed with deep undercuts.
- Larger islands covered with low, tangled, thorny vegetation.
- Outer islands with bare coral blocks providing nest sites for seabirds.
- Location and Boundaries:
- Located in Lamu District, Coast Province, Kenya.
- Extends more than 37 miles parallel to the shoreline.
- Shares boundaries with terrestrial reserves Dodori and Boni.
- Biosphere Reserve:
- Important for nesting seabirds, green turtles, and dugongs.
- Hosts relatively pristine mangroves.
- Only traditional fishing with approved methods is permitted.
Wildlife and Marine Life:
- Marine Life:
- Ideal coral reefs for snorkeling.
- Seasonal spotting of whale sharks.
- Renowned for its aesthetic beauty and species diversity.
- Birds and Nesting Seabirds:
- Small outer islands rich in seabirds.
- Seabird nesting sites, including Dromas ardeola.
- Over 800 Dromas ardeola noted at Kiwayuu Island.
- Turtles and Dugongs:
- Prime habitat for sea turtles, including Olive Ridley and Leatherback.
- Occasional sightings of dugongs.
Climate and Attractions:
- Climate:
- Humid coastal climate with temperatures ranging from 22-34°C.
- Mean annual rainfall is about 500mm.
- Attractions:
- Kiwayu Island.
- Sea turtles, reef fish, lobsters, sea urchins, crabs, and more.
- Sand dunes, coral reefs, beautiful sand beaches.
Activities:
- Beach Activities:
- Wind Surfing, Diving, Snorkeling.
- Water skiing, Sunbathing.
- Dhow cruise safaris, Fishing, Bird watching.
Best Time to Visit:
- January to March for the warmest months.
- Cooler temperatures from July to September.
- Long rainy season in April and May.
- Short rains in November.
Accommodations:
- Majlis Resort, Manda Bay, Kizingoni Beach Houses, Kipungani, Kizingo Lodge, and Kijani Hotel offer various options.
How to Get There:
- By road from Lamu (about 150 km east).
- Airstrip at Dodori National Reserve.
- By sea from Lamu via dhow or speedboat.
What to Bring:
- Footwear (sandals or flip flops).
- T-shirts for sun protection.
- Snorkel, mask, fins (available for hire).
- Camera, hat, sunscreen, insect repellant.
- Guide books.
- Plenty of drinking water.
Explore the coastal beauty, rich marine life, and diverse ecosystems of Kiunga Marine National Reserve, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an escape to pristine shores.