Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park

Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park is located off the southern coast of Kenya near the Tanzania border which is a stunning marine reserve with vibrant coral reefs. It is one of the best marine parks in East Africa with great opportunities for snorkelers and scuba divers. The crystal clear waters, biodiversity, and coral reefs make it a paradise for all thrill seekers. If you’re an eco-conscious traveler or a nature lover Kisite Mpunguti offers an unforgettable marine experience. Kisite Park covers 11 square kilometers while the Mpunguti reserve covers 28 square kilometers with four small islands surrounded by the coral reef. There is a huge Marine life including the moray eels scorpion fish and parrot fish among many others.

Location of Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park

Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park is located approximately 11 km off the MKenyan coast near the small fishing village of Shimoni in Kwale County. It covers 28 square kilometers with four small islets surrounded by coral reefs. Kisite Island is the focal point of the park, while Mpunguti Marine Reserve encompasses the open sea and coral atolls. It lies in Kenya’s exclusive economic zone and is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Getting To Kisite Mpunguti

The best way would be to get to Diani Beach first, which is the closest tourism hub to this Marine park. From Diani beach, it takes about 2 hrs to get to Shimoni by road, the journey is an excellent view of the coastal villages with palm-fringed villages and coastal landscapes. From Shimoni, you can take a short boat ride to the marine park. These boats also offer a package of food and drinks on the ride to the park.

Things to do at Kisite Mpunguti

1. Watch the incredible Marine Biodiversity With over 250 species of marine fish, 50 species of coral, sea turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales. There is an incredible Marine life at the marine park. Others to watch are:

a). Moray eels, octopuses, and sea stars.
b). Parrotfish, gropers, and snappers.
Coral reefs in this Park are part of the Eastern African Coast which is one of the most important ecosystems in the Indian Ocean.

2. Snorkeling and Diving

The calm and shallow waters allow great visibility of the marine life, anyone can dive.
a) Snorkeling is ideal for beginners and families wishing to see the colorful fish.
b) Scuba diving from depths of 5 to 40 meters, is suitable for all experience levels from starters to experienced divers.

3. Dolphin Watching

Dolphin spotting is one of the most popular activities at Kisite Mpunguti, where the Spinner and the bottlenose dolphins are regularly seen playing in the ocean waves and swimming alongside the boats.

4. Inhabited Coral Islets

Coral Islets at Kisite mpunguti are inhabited and thus have preserved their beauty. Visitors can walk around when the tide is low. During the low tides stunning pristine beaches and turquoise waters can be seen this is also a home for seabirds and gulls.

5. Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Travel

Being in a marine protected area (MPA). The KWS works with the local communities to ensure sustainable tourism and conservation.

Best Time to Visit Kisite Mpunguti

The Best time to visit the Marine Park is during the dry season.

• December to March
• July to October

During these months the Ocean is calm and visibility is great for snorkeling and Diving. Getting to see dolphins at this time is quite easy rather to the rainy season when the water is not clear and the ocean is rough.

A Day trip at Kisite Marine Park.

The journey begins at Shimoni around 8.30 A.M., then sail to the marine park in a traditional dhow as you watch the Dolphins. Snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs before Lunch at the Wasini Island, After lunch you can have a village tour on the Wasini Island and return to Shimoni by 3-4 PM.

Entry Fees at Kisite Mpunguti

• East African Citizens/Residents – 200 ksh
• Children 100 ksh
• Non-Residents (rest of Africa) – 15 dollars
• Non-Resident children – 15 dollars
• International Visitors – 20 dollars and 10 dollars from children.
• Full-day dolphin watch and snorkeling -110 dollars

How The Community Is Involved in Conservation

The Park faces much pressure from overfishing, coral bleaching, and climate changes. It is now a model for community-led conservation The surrounding communities participate especially in Wasini Island. The people of Wasini have formed conservation groups, including:

• The friends of Shimoni Forest
• Women’s eco-tourism initiatives
• Wasini Beach Management Unit (BMU)

All these groups have been helping with the restoration of the coral reef, community education, and sustainable ecotourism.

Traveling Trip to the Marine Park

1) Start by booking with a licensed operator. Operators are registered by the KWS and should follow responsible tourism practices.
2) Carry a reef-safe sunscreen
3) Carry enough water due to the heat on the coast
4) Follow rules at the marine park
5) Include other attractions such as the Shimoni Caves in your itinerary.

Accommodations Near Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park

In Shimoni, we have a few choices.

1. Kusisni Beach Cottages
2. Shimoni Reef Lodge
3. Charlie Claw’s Island

In Wasini

• Wasini Island Eco-lodge
• Wasini Mpunguti Lodge

In Diani Beach

1) This has more luxurious or resort-style stays.

Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park is a beacon of conservation, natural wonders, and a community empowerment center. The serene Island views give some of the most rewarding marine ecotourism experiences in Africa. Whether you are a seasoned snorkeler or starting out, a cultural traveler or a fun-loving traveler this is the best place to go to.