Ruma National Park - Ruma National Park

Ruma National Park is facing a conservation crisis, with its once-thriving Roan Antelope population now reduced to fewer than 20 individuals—one of the last surviving groups in Kenya. Over the past few decades, habitat destruction, poaching, and human encroachment have wiped out more than 80% of their numbers, leaving the species teetering on the edge of local extinction.

This decline is not just alarming; it is a race against time. Without urgent and decisive intervention, the Roan Antelope could disappear from Kenya’s wild landscapes forever. Ruma is their last refuge, and if this population collapses, so does the country’s hope of saving this rare and graceful species. The time for action is now.

I. Introduction to Ruma National Park

Ruma National Park is one of Kenya’s best-kept wildlife secrets, offering an untouched safari experience away from the crowded tourist hotspots. Located in Homa Bay County, it is the only sanctuary for the endangered roan antelope in Kenya and a vital habitat for other rare species such as the Rothschild’s giraffe, black rhino, and the blue swallow.

The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from vast savannahs to woodlands and escarpments, create the perfect setting for game drives, birdwatching, photography, and nature walks. Whether you’re a nature lover, conservationist, or adventure traveler, Ruma National Park provides a unique and rewarding wildlife experience.

About Ruma.co.ke

Ruma.co.ke was started by passionate conservationists based in Nairobi with deep roots in South Nyanza, driven by the alarming reality of the Roan Antelope’s near-collapse in Ruma National Park.

Just 3 years ago in 2022, when Safaricom Foundation pledged KES 17 million toward the fencing of Ruma National Park, I felt an overwhelming sense of excitement—finally, my cellphone service provider was investing in something that truly mattered. But as I delved deeper into the dire state of Ruma’s wildlife ecosystem, my initial enthusiasm turned into urgency. The more I learned, the more I felt compelled to sound the alarm—to make sure everyone understood just how critical this fight for conservation had become.

While KES 17 million was a commendable contribution, it was merely a drop in the ocean compared to the magnitude of the challenge. The park’s perimeter fence—originally erected in the 1990s—has suffered years of neglect, vandalism, and deterioration, leaving Ruma’s fragile wildlife exposed to poachers, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflict. A fence is more than just a barrier; in Ruma, it is a lifeline for survival, and without sustained efforts to restore and maintain it, the park’s most vulnerable species—especially the Roan Antelope—stand little chance of survival.

While Ruma National Park boasts an incredible landscape of rolling savannahs, escarpments, and wetlands, it remains one of Kenya’s least-visited and most overlooked parks, receiving only a fraction of the conservation investment seen in more popular reserves. Unlike the Maasai Mara or Amboseli, where tourism drives funding, Ruma lacks the financial incentives that typically sustain conservation.

Yet, waiting for tourism to justify protection is not an option. Restoration efforts must lead ahead of financial motivation, prioritizing habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement. At Ruma.co.ke, we are committed to making this park a conservation priority, ensuring that the Roan Antelope and Ruma’s entire ecosystem have a fighting chance to recover and thrive.

II. General Information for Visiting Ruma NP

A. Location and Accessibility

📍 Where is Ruma National Park?

Ruma National Park is located in Lambwe Valley, Homa Bay County, western Kenya.
It is 425 km from Nairobi, 165 km from Kisumu, and 30 km from Homa Bay town.

🚗 How to Get There

By Road:
- From Nairobi: Take the Nairobi–Kisumu road to Homa Bay and then drive to the park via Ndhiwa town.
- From Kisumu: Travel through Kendu Bay and Homa Bay, then follow the Homa Bay–Mbita road to the park.
By Air:
- The nearest airstrips are Kabunde Airstrip (Homa Bay) and Kisumu International Airport, where visitors can rent a vehicle or book a guided tour.

B. Entrance and Fees

💰 Ruma National Park Entrance Fees (as of 2024):

Category	High Season (July – March)	Low Season (April – June)
Kenyan Citizens (Adults)	KES 300	KES 250
Kenyan Citizens (Children/Students)	KES 215	KES 200
East Africa (EA) Residents (Adults)	KES 600	KES 500
East Africa (EA) Residents (Children/Students)	KES 300	KES 250
Non-Residents (Adults)	USD 25	USD 20
Non-Residents (Children/Students)	USD 15	USD 10

🚪 Entry Gates

Kamato Gate (Main Entrance) – Best for travelers coming from Homa Bay and Nairobi.
Nyatoto Gate – Ideal for visitors from Mbita or Lake Victoria region.

⏰ Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

C. Best Time to Visit

📆 When is the best time to visit Ruma National Park?

Season	Best For	Weather Conditions
Dry Season (June – October, January – February)	Best for game viewing, self-drive safaris, and photography	Warm, dry conditions with less vegetation, making it easier to spot animals
Wet Season (March – May, November – December)	Best for birdwatching and lush green landscapes	Occasional rain showers, roads may be muddy but ideal for migratory birds

🦌 For the best safari experience, visit during the dry season, when animals are easier to spot near waterholes.

III. Wildlife and Conservation at Ruma NP

A. Wildlife in Ruma National Park

Ruma National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species.

🦌 Notable Mammals

Roan Antelope (Hippotragus equinus) – The star attraction, with Ruma being Kenya’s last refuge for this species.
Rothschild’s Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi) – One of the rarest giraffe subspecies.
Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis michaeli) – Recently reintroduced to boost biodiversity.
Jackson’s Hartebeest & Lelwel Hartebeest – Two distinct hartebeest species roaming the park.
Cape Buffalo, Impala, Topi, and Waterbuck – Common herbivores in the park.
Leopard & Spotted Hyena – The park’s apex predators.

🦅 Birdlife

Ruma is an Important Bird Area (IBA), home to over 400 species, including:
- Blue Swallow (Hirundo atrocaerulea) – A globally vulnerable migratory bird.
- Crowned Crane, Marabou Stork, Secretary Bird, Ibis – Other notable species.

🐍 Reptiles

African Rock Python, Black Mamba, Puff Adder – Some of the park’s notable snake species.

B. Conservation Efforts

Roan Antelope Protection Program – Dedicated conservation to increase population numbers.
Anti-Poaching Measures – KWS patrols, ranger stations, and use of camera traps and drones.
Tsetse Fly Control Program – Research and community interventions to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

IV. Activities and Attractions in this Park

A. Safari Experiences

🚗 Game Drives

Guided Safari Tours – Experienced rangers lead morning and evening game drives.
Self-Drive Safaris – Visitors can explore the park with a 4×4 vehicle.

B. Outdoor Adventures

🥾 Hiking & Nature Walks

Kanyamwa Escarpment Hike – Scenic trails overlooking the park.
Guided Bush Walks – Learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and tracking techniques.

📷 Photography

Ruri Hills – Best for landscape photography and sunset views.

V. Accommodation and Travel Planning

A. Accommodation Options

🏕 Camping Sites in Ruma National Park

Kamato Public Campsite – Offers basic camping facilities.
Special Campsites – Available for private, wilderness experiences.

🏨 Lodges & Hotels Near Ruma National Park

Homa Bay Tourist Hotel
Lake Victoria Safari Village
Takawiri Island Resort (Mbita Island)

B. Travel Tips

✅ What to Pack:

Light, breathable clothing for warm days
A warm jacket for cool mornings and evenings
Binoculars for birdwatching
Camera with zoom lens for wildlife photography
Insect repellent (for tsetse flies)

✅ Safety Tips:

Stay inside vehicles during game drives.
Avoid feeding or approaching wildlife.
Carry sufficient water and snacks.

VI. Conclusion

Ruma National Park is one of Kenya’s most underrated wildlife destinations, offering a unique opportunity to see rare species in an unspoiled environment. From game drives and hiking trails to birdwatching and conservation experiences, the park provides something for every nature lover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ruma National Park

1. Is Ruma National Park safe for visitors?

Yes, Ruma National Park is generally safe for visitors. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) patrols the park regularly to ensure security. However, visitors should:

Stay inside their vehicles during game drives.
Follow park regulations, especially regarding wildlife interaction.
Be cautious of tsetse flies and carry insect repellent.

2. Are there restaurants or food services inside the park?

No, there are no restaurants or food services inside Ruma National Park. Visitors are advised to:

Bring their own packed meals and drinking water.
Stay in nearby lodges or hotels that offer dining options.
Campers should carry cooking equipment and supplies if staying overnight.

3. Can I visit Ruma National Park without a guide?

Yes, visitors can explore Ruma National Park without a guide, especially for self-drive safaris. However, hiring a professional guide is recommended for:

Better wildlife spotting and navigation.
Educational insights on the park’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Enhancing safety, especially during bush walks.

4. What are the road conditions like inside Ruma National Park?

The main access road is unpaved and can be bumpy, so a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended.
During the rainy season, some roads become muddy and slippery, making navigation difficult.
The park has limited signage, so carrying a GPS or map is advised for self-drive visitors.

5. Are there picnic sites inside Ruma National Park?

Yes, the park has designated picnic spots where visitors can rest and enjoy meals. However:

Visitors should not leave food or litter behind to avoid attracting wildlife.
Avoid wandering away from the designated areas for safety reasons.

6. What makes Ruma National Park different from other parks in Kenya?

Only place in Kenya where the endangered roan antelope is found.
Offers a more exclusive safari experience with fewer crowds than parks like Maasai Mara.
Recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA), making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Features a unique blend of savannah, woodlands, escarpments, and hills, offering diverse scenery.

7. Are drones allowed in Ruma National Park?

No, drones are not allowed in Ruma National Park without a special permit from Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Unauthorized drone use can:

Disturb wildlife.
Violate park regulations and conservation policies.
Lead to fines or confiscation of equipment.

8. Can I go fishing or boating inside Ruma National Park?

No, Ruma National Park does not have any permanent water bodies for fishing or boating. However, visitors can:

Explore Lake Victoria, which is nearby and offers boating and fishing opportunities.
Visit Mbita or Rusinga Island for water-based activities.

9. Is Ruma National Park suitable for family trips?

Yes, Ruma National Park is family-friendly, but visitors should consider:

Bringing enough food, water, and sun protection for children.
Keeping children inside the vehicle during game drives.
Choosing shorter game drives to keep younger children engaged.

10. Can I cycle inside Ruma National Park?

No, cycling is not permitted inside Ruma National Park due to:

The presence of dangerous wildlife like buffaloes and leopards.
Rough terrain, which makes cycling difficult.
Lack of designated cycling trails.

11. What should I do if my vehicle breaks down inside the park?

In case of a breakdown:

Stay inside your vehicle and avoid walking on foot.
Call the park headquarters or Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers for assistance.
If you are part of a guided tour, contact your tour operator immediately.

12. What kind of power supply is available near Ruma National Park?

There is no electricity inside the park.
Nearby lodges and campsites use solar power or generators for lighting.
Visitors should carry power banks or solar chargers for their electronics.

13. Are night game drives allowed in Ruma National Park?

No, night game drives are not permitted in Ruma National Park. The park operates from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and all visitors must leave or return to their campsites before closing time.

14. Can I bring my pet to Ruma National Park?

No, pets are not allowed inside Ruma National Park due to:

Wildlife safety risks, as pets can attract predators.
Park conservation policies that prevent interference with native species.

15. What languages do the park guides speak?

Most park guides and rangers speak:
✅ English
✅ Swahili
✅ Some may speak local languages (Luo, Luhya, Kisii, etc.) for community interactions.

16. Are there any medical facilities inside Ruma National Park?

No, there are no medical facilities inside the park. Visitors should:

Carry a first-aid kit.
Seek medical care in Homa Bay town, which has hospitals and pharmacies.
Be prepared for emergency evacuation if needed.

17. Is WiFi available in Ruma National Park?

No, there is no WiFi inside the park. However:

Some nearby lodges and hotels may provide WiFi access.
Visitors should rely on mobile network coverage, which may be weak in some areas.

18. Can I visit Ruma National Park during the rainy season?

Yes, but be prepared for:

Muddy roads that require a 4×4 vehicle.
Harder wildlife spotting due to tall grasses and dense vegetation.
More birdwatching opportunities, as migratory birds arrive during the wet season.

19. Are there cultural experiences near Ruma National Park?

Yes! Visitors can explore:

Luo and Suba communities, learning about their traditions and way of life.
Takawiri Island and Rusinga Island, where cultural festivals and local crafts are showcased.

20. Is Ruma National Park worth visiting compared to other parks in Kenya?

Absolutely! Ruma National Park offers:

A unique and less crowded safari experience.
The only place in Kenya where you can see roan antelopes.
Diverse landscapes, including valleys, escarpments, and open plains.
Great opportunities for birdwatching, especially for rare species like the blue swallow.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari destination, Ruma National Park is a perfect choice!