Kitale Nature Conservancy, also known as Ndura Park, is a unique and somewhat unconventional nature conservancy located approximately 5 kilometers northeast of Kitale town along the Kitale-Kapenguria Road (A1 Road) in Trans Nzoia County, Western Kenya. It sits strategically at the intersection of the Western and North Rift tourism circuit, close to the emerging cross-border tourism area between Uganda and Kenya, and is nestled between Mount Elgon to the west and the Cherangani Hills to the east.
Here’s a detailed look at Kitale Nature Conservancy:
History:
- The conservancy was originally conceived as a community recreation area.
- It emerged as a response to significant habitat loss and wildlife poaching that had wiped out the once abundant wildlife in the grasslands and woodlands of the region. Species like Kongoni, Sitatunga, Bongo, Black Rhino, elephants, Reed Buck, and Rothschild giraffes were eliminated through direct hunting and habitat destruction.
- The primary mission of the Kitale Nature Conservancy has been reviving and restoring the original habitat and conserving the remaining indigenous plants and animals.
- The conservancy is also known for its unique conservation approach, particularly its dedication to nurturing animals with deformities, rescuing them from situations where they might be killed due to superstitions or perceived bad omens.
- The conservancy also plays a role in environmental education, particularly for local students, often using its “holy mountain” as a base for teaching conservation.
Wildlife and Flora:
- While the conservancy is actively working to reintroduce wildlife, it currently houses a variety of animals, some with unique circumstances:
- Deformed Animals: A notable aspect is the care given to animals with physical deformities, such as four-horned cows or those with abnormal features.
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- Other Animals: Reports also mention the presence of lions (donated from Nairobi National Park), baboons, cane rats, snakes, and crocodiles.
- Birdlife: The conservancy is part of the Cherangani Hills ecosystem and near Mount Elgon, making it a good spot for bird watching.
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- Botanical Gardens: The conservancy features a 200-acre botanic garden established by a retired mathematics teacher who collected hundreds of indigenous plant species from across Kenya (approximately 600-700 species).
Conservation Efforts:
- The core of the conservancy’s work is habitat restoration and biodiversity conservation.
- They actively work to conserve the remaining dotted indigenous plants.
- A significant aspect is their environmental awareness program for schools, aiming to nurture a conservation culture among the youth.
- The conservancy provides a sanctuary for rescued and relocated animals, including those with deformities.
Tourism and Activities: Kitale Nature Conservancy offers a range of activities for visitors:
- Wildlife Viewing: Observing the resident animals, including the unique deformed ones.
- Bird Watching: The diverse habitats attract numerous bird species.
- Botanical Gardens Exploration: Discovering a wide variety of indigenous Kenyan plants.
- Nature Trails and Walking: Enjoying the serene environment through marked trails.
- “Mountain of Curses” and “Holy Mountain”: Unique geographical features used for education and potentially offering scenic views.
- Animal Orphanage: Observing animals in a controlled environment.
- Snake Park: Viewing different snake species.
- Camping Site: Offering facilities for overnight stays in nature.
- Play Parks and Picnic Areas: Providing recreational spaces for families.
- Butterfly Spotting: The conservancy is noted as a good place to see butterflies.
- Educational Programs: Focused on environmental conservation for students.
- Boating: One source mentions boat riding as an activity.
Accommodation:
- Kitale Nature Conservancy has approximately 32 homey African-inspired cottages offering reasonable accommodation for visitors who wish to stay overnight.
- There are also camping facilities available.
- Other hotels and guesthouses are available in nearby Kitale town.
Key Features:
- Unique Conservation Focus: Its dedication to animals with deformities sets it apart.
- Botanical Diversity: The extensive botanic garden showcases Kenya’s indigenous flora.
- Educational Importance: Plays a significant role in environmental awareness for local schools.
- Community Recreation: Originally started as a space for the local community.
- Accessibility: Located conveniently near Kitale town.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Kapenguria Road, Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, Kenya (approximately 5 km northeast of Kitale town).
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM (some sources mention until 7:00 PM).
- Entrance Fee: There is an admission fee (one source mentions US $10).
- Contact: +254 720 309108, +254 722 330803, [email address removed], website: http://www.kitalenature.or.ke.
Kitale Nature Conservancy provides a different kind of wildlife and nature experience, emphasizing conservation, education, and the unique care of animals. Its blend of botanical diversity, animal encounters, and recreational facilities makes it a noteworthy destination in the Kitale region.
