Kisite mpunguti marine park is a unique and vital ecosystem located off the southern coast of Mombasa, near wasini island, in Kenya. The park combines kisite marine national park and mpunguti marine national reserve, covering an area of approximately 15 square miles featuring coral reefs and four small islands, including kisite island and the three mpunguti islands (juu, chini, and liwe la jahazi). These islands serve as a crucial breeding ground for various bird species, including migrating crab plovers and roseate terns. The mpunguti islands are characterized by dense forest cover, adding to the park’s biodiversity which provides a significant environmental value, supporting a wide range of marine and terrestrial life.
Kisite marine park was established to safeguard the natural beauty of its islands and unique habitats, which support an incredible array of endemic marine life and migratory birds with over 45 coral species, 360 fish species, including grouper, wrasse, pufferfish, scorpionfish, damselfish, snapper, ray, turtle, and dolphin. During certain times of the year, visitors may be treated to sightings of humpback whale and the whale sharks. Mpunguti chini island is home to endemic coconut crabs. The park offers a refreshing escape from the heat, making it ideal for swimming, cooling off, and enjoying water activities.
Attractions at kisite mpunguti national park
Turtle haven
Kisite mpunguti marine park is renowned for its thriving turtle population. Visitors can spot both the green turtles and the hawksbill turtles in their natural habitat, particularly at kijamba cha kasa, a popular hangout spot for these gentle creatures.
Dolphin and whale encounters
Explore the vibrant waters of kisite mpoppnguti marine park, home to over 200 dolphins, including; spinner dolphins, humpback dolphins, bottlenose dolphins playing in the waves, either solo or in groups of 2-25. If you the park visit between July and December for a chance to witness the humpback whales, nurturing their young in the warm water and migratory whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, gliding through the ocean.
Kisite island
Kisite island is a designated important bird area (IBA), recognized globally for its critical role in conserving bird populations. This unique island boasts flat, rocky terrain with patches of grass with magical sandy beaches, exposed during low tide. Kisite island provides an ideal habitat for seabirds, supporting pelagic-feeders which feed on the open sea. Witness the annual cycle of July arrivals where the roseate and sooty terns arrive to breed and September departures where birds leave with their fledglings.
Shimoni slave caves
Located just a 5-minute walk from shimoni pier, the ancient coral caves of shimoni are a must-visit attraction. These vast caves extend 5 km inland, connecting to the 3 sisters caves and they served as ‘kayas’, sacred sites of worship and sanctuary for the local community. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the caves were used as holding areas for captured slaves, who were bound for the Arabian slave markets of Zanzibar. The caves are run as a community project, with entrance fees supporting local teachers and needy children.
The Kenyan barrier reef
Stretching from shimoni in the south to Malindi in the north, the Kenyan barrier reef is a remarkable feature of the Kenyan coast. This pristine and well-developed coral reef extends continuously, interrupted only by river mouths often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea”. It supports an incredible array of marine life, with nearly one million species calling the reef home.
Activities at kisite mpunguti marine national park
Located in the pristine coral gardens south of wasini island, kisite mpunguti marine park is a tropical paradise and a haven for marine life. This stunning park protects scenic islands and unique habitats for a diverse range of endemic marine animals and migratory birds. The park also boasts three small coral rag forest islands, each with extensive fringing reefs, earns its reputation as one of the most rewarding snorkeling destinations on the coast. Kisite mpungunti marine national park is famously known as the “home of dolphins”. Visitors to kisite mpunguti marine park can enjoy a wide range of exciting activities, including:
Bird watching
Explore kisite island, an important bird area (IBA), featuring a unique landscape of; grassy patches, rocky outcrops, sandy beaches exposed at low tide
Witness the annual breeding of roseate terns and sooty terns (July to September)
Scuba diving
Dive into the warm, crystal-clear waters, teeming with the pristine corals and vibrant fish. Explore diving sites ranging from 2 meters to 32 meters deep.
Snorkeling
Discover the breathtaking marine life, best experienced for only two hours on either side of low tide. Snorkeling is best done during the early mornings, when the sea is calm.
Explore shimoni caves
Visit the ancient coral caves, steeped in history and sacred sites of worship for local communities. The caves were former slave pens, a poignant reminder of the past. They extend 5 km inland, connecting to the 3 sisters caves. These served as temporary prisons for enslaved Africans, captured and held before being shipped to the notorious slave markets of Zanzibar.
Camping
Embark on a beach camping adventure, complete with campfires and stargazing. You can choose from various resorts with camping facilities or hire equipment locally.
Sunbathing
Relax and soak up the sun, enjoying the peaceful beachside ambiance and refreshing sea breeze.
Guided walks
Embark on a guided tour, exploring the coastal life, fishing sites and the neighboring communities.
Boat trips
Set sail on a memorable boat trip, featuring island-hopping, bird breeding sites for the different bird species and dolphins.
Dhow cruise
Experience the thrill of a dhow cruise, navigating through the turquoise waters and coral reefs as you spot other aquatic animals. Plan your visit with vibrant holiday safaris and get ready for the ultimate adventure!
How to get there.
Tucked away on the southern coast of Kenya near shimoni and south of wasini island, near the Tanzanian border, kisite mpunguti marine national park is 120 km (75 mi) from Mombasa and 605 km (375mi) from Nairobi. The park lies 11 km off the Kenyan coast at shimoni and 8 km north of the Tanzanian border.
The park can only be reached by boat usually a cruise on a traditional dhow from the coastal resorts of Mombasa and Diani beach.
Where to stay
Kisite mpunguti marine national park has a wide range of accommodations is available to suit every taste and budget around wasini island, Diani beach, shimoni area. Some of the accommodations include; saruni ocean beach hotel, mpunguti lodge, firefly ocean camp, leu marlin beach hotel, baobab beach resort and spa, shimoni Reef lodge among others.
