National Park
Western Kenya Special Interest Park
Ruma National Park
Dramatic Valley of the Roan Antelope, Rhino, Rothschild’s Giraffe and Oribi
A western Kenya valley park and the country’s key refuge for the endangered roan antelope.
Overview
About Ruma National Park
Ruma National Park lies in the Lambwe Valley between the Kanyamwa Escarpment and Ruri Hills. It is best known as Kenya’s remaining stronghold for the endangered roan antelope and also supports rare birds and other threatened wildlife in a quiet landscape far from the busiest safari circuits.
Attractions
What makes this protected area special
Roan antelope sanctuary
Lambwe Valley landscapes
Kanyamwa Escarpment
Ruri Hills
Endangered Blue Swallow
Rothschild’s giraffe
Experience
Activities & wildlife
Things to do
- Game drives
- Birdwatching
- Hiking
- Photography
- Outdoor events
Wildlife & biodiversity
- Roan antelope
- Rothschild’s giraffe
- Oribi
- Blue Swallow
- Other savannah wildlife
Stay nearby
Accommodation
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
The Lambwe Valley area was gazetted as a game reserve in 1966 and later upgraded to national park status. KWS gives the park area as about 120 km².
Plan your journey
How to get there
By road
From Homa Bay, KWS lists routes through Kadio/Malela Junction or Rodi Kopany and Mirogi to Kamato Main Gate.
Before you go
Visitor tips
Carry drinking water, sun protection, a camera or binoculars, and a basic first-aid kit.
Use clothing and footwear suited to the terrain and expected weather.
Confirm road, weather and gate conditions with KWS before departure.
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 20 | USD 10 |
| Non-ResidentUSD | USD 40 | USD 20 |
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
Ruma National Park FAQs
What is Ruma National Park best known for?
Ruma National Park is especially known for Roan antelope sanctuary, Lambwe Valley landscapes, Kanyamwa Escarpment, Ruri Hills. The exact experience varies by season and current park conditions.
How do I get to Ruma National Park?
Road: From Homa Bay, KWS lists routes through Kadio/Malela Junction or Rodi Kopany and Mirogi to Kamato Main Gate. Confirm the latest road, gate, airstrip or marine access guidance with KWS before departure.
What are the current entry fees for Ruma National Park?
The KWS 2025 fee schedule lists East African citizen adults from KES 500 and non-resident adults from USD 40 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 Ruma National Park?
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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