The main attraction at Saiwa Swamp National Park is a small population of the sitatunga antelope, which can be spotted here in its natural swampy environment. This rare antelope has special hooves adapted to wading through water, which makes it semi-aquatic, so it is seldom seen away from the wetlands. The closely related bushbuck also occurs here. These two antelope look quite similar, but the male sitatunga is larger, shaggier and has heavier horns.
Wildlife Highlights
Spotted-necked otter and African clawless otter might be spotted swimming in the swamp. Tree-dwellers include black-and-white colobus, vervet monkey, giant forest squirrel and red-legged sun squirrels. Also look out for de Brazza’s monkey, a West African swamp-dweller not easily seen elsewhere in East Africa. This large monkey is easily recognized by the male’s golden crown and striking white beard. Troops often forage in trees around the campsite, but they tend to be very quiet, so you need to stay alert.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
Saiwa Swamp can be visited throughout the year, but heavy rain can be expected from April to August. The ideal conditions for wildlife viewing are during the Dry season (December to March).