Diani Chale National Reserve
Marine Park / Reserve
Kiunga Marine National Reserve
An Enchanted Underwater World with Paradise Islands and Pristine Mangrove Forests
Overview
About Kiunga Marine National Reserve
Kiunga protects one of Kenya’s most remote marine environments, combining coral reefs, mangrove forest, clear water and a chain of limestone islands. The reserve supports threatened marine species and rich birdlife while retaining strong Swahili seafaring character through traditional dhow travel.
Attractions
What makes this protected area special
More than 50 limestone islands
Pristine coral reefs
Mangrove ecosystems
Dugong habitat
Green and leatherback turtles
Exceptional coastal birdlife
Experience
Activities & wildlife
Things to do
- Boat excursions
- Snorkeling where conditions allow
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Island exploration
- Cultural seafaring experiences
Wildlife & biodiversity
- Dugong
- Green turtle
- Leatherback turtle
- Marine birds
- Reef species
Stay nearby
Accommodation
Private lodges & camps
- Mike???s Camp
- Kiwayu Safari Village
Use the current KWS source page and Courtesywide Adventures hotel inventory to confirm in-park and nearby accommodation; availability and operating status can change.
Conservation story
Park history
KWS manages Kiunga as a marine national reserve protecting the northernmost Kenyan coastal and island ecosystems.
Plan your journey
How to get there
By road
Drive to Mokowe jetty and continue by boat toward Lamu/Mkokoni depending on itinerary.
By air
Fly to Manda Airstrip and connect by sea.
By sea / boat
Boat or dhow connections operate from the Lamu area.
Before you go
Visitor tips
Carry drinking water, sun protection, suitable beachwear and a basic first-aid kit.
Use reef-safe practices and do not remove coral, shells or marine life.
Confirm local sea and weather conditions before snorkeling, diving or boat excursions.
Opening/entry times and activity hours can vary by protected area and season. Confirm current KWS gate or facility hours before travel.
Single-use plastics are not permitted in Kenya's protected areas. Travel with reusable alternatives.
Responsible travel
Safety guidelines
- 1
Respect wildlife space and always give animals right of way.
- 2
Do not carry or use prohibited single-use plastics inside protected areas.
- 3
Follow normal road rules; avoid hooting and never drive under the influence of alcohol.
- 4
Observe the official gate opening and closing times unless you are an authorised overnight guest.
- 5
Drive and move quietly so wildlife is not startled or disturbed.
- 6
Keep unnecessary noise, phones and sound devices to a minimum around wildlife.
- 7
Remain in your vehicle except at places specifically designated as safe for visitors to alight.
- 8
Observe the posted park speed limit; KWS commonly limits game-viewing roads to 40 km/h.
- 9
Stay on authorised roads, tracks and trails and do not drive off-road.
- 10
Keep a safe viewing distance from wildlife and follow ranger instructions.
- 11
Never feed wild animals or interfere with their natural behaviour.
- 12
Carry your litter out and leave campsites, picnic sites and viewing areas clean.
- 13
When camping, never leave a fire unattended and extinguish it completely before leaving.
- 14
Protected-area visits are undertaken subject to KWS rules, conditions and current safety guidance.
Conservation fees
Park entry rates
| Visitor category | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| East Africa CitizenKES | KES 500 | KES 250 |
| Kenya ResidentKES | KES 675 | KES 350 |
| Africa CitizenUSD | USD 15 | USD 10 |
| Non-ResidentUSD | USD 25 | USD 15 |
Effective from 2025-10-01
Rates captured from the official KWS Conservation Fees 2025 schedule, effective 1 October 2025. Verify the latest KWS conservation fees before publishing a final client quotation or invoice.
View official fee sourceUseful answers
Kiunga Marine National Reserve FAQs
What is Kiunga Marine National Reserve best known for?
Kiunga Marine National Reserve is especially known for More than 50 limestone islands, Pristine coral reefs, Mangrove ecosystems, Dugong habitat. The exact experience varies by season and current park conditions.
How do I get to Kiunga Marine National Reserve?
Road: Drive to Mokowe jetty and continue by boat toward Lamu/Mkokoni depending on itinerary. Air: Fly to Manda Airstrip and connect by sea. Sea: Boat or dhow connections operate from the Lamu area. Confirm the latest road, gate, airstrip or marine access guidance with KWS before departure.
What are the current entry fees for Kiunga Marine National Reserve?
The KWS 2025 fee schedule lists East African citizen adults from KES 500 and non-resident adults from USD 25 for this fee category. Child, resident and African-citizen rates are stored in this record. Always verify current KWS fees before issuing a final quotation.
What should I carry when visiting Kiunga Marine National Reserve?
Carry drinking water, suitable clothing and footwear, sun protection, a camera/binoculars where useful, and any personal medication. Follow KWS safety rules and avoid single-use plastics in protected areas.
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