Kora national park is located in tana river county, Kenya, covering an area of 1,788 square kilometers. It is situated 125 kilometers east of Mount Kenya. Initially, the park was established as a nature reserve in 1973 and later gazetted as a national park in 1989. Meru national park along with tana river bounder the northern boundary of the park. This stretches 65 kilometers featuring the Adamson’s falls, grand falls, and the kora rapids. The park’s eastern boundary is defined by the mwitamvisi river, and it also features several seasonal rivers.
Kora national park falls under the management of Kenya wildlife services, which oversees conservation efforts and ensures adherence to park regulations. The park boasts a rugged landscape featuring rock outcrops, granite kopjes, acacia woodlands, and scrub vegetation, particularly as you move south towards the tana river.
Notable figures, including George Adamson and tony Fitzjohn, have contributed to various projects aimed at rehabilitating lions within the park. George Adamson, a renowned author and wildlife conservationist, earned the nickname “baba ya Simba” or “father of lions” in Swahili. Adamson established a camp beneath kora rock, where lions were rehabilitated. The camp attracts visitors from around the world, all united by a common goal: to aid in the reintroduction of lions into their natural habitat in the wild.
Discover the unspoiled beauty of kora national park, affectionately known as “the last wilderness” and Kenya’s third-largest national park. Explore the vast plains dotted with majestic inselbergs, and marvel at breathtaking attractions like Adamson’s falls, grand falls, and kora rapids. The park’s diverse birdlife and stunning landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise.
Getting to kora national park
By road
kora national park is situated approximately 280km (173mi) northeast of Nairobi, accessible via a scenic 4–5-hour drive through Thika, mwingi, and kyudo villages. There are different routes that can get you to the park’s different gates that is; kaningo gate, masyungwa gate, Adamson’s gate which is the main gate. For those preferring to fly in, there’s a nearby airstrip located about 10 kilometers east of the park. Additionally, a small bridge connects kora national park to the adjacent Meru national park. If you plan to drive to the park, it’s crucial to have a sturdy 4×4 vehicle to navigate the terrain.
By air
The park has three airstrips: kyethoni airstrip, kampi ya Simba airstrip, masanduku airstrip in Meru n. Park.
Attractions in kora national park.
Scenery
Kora national park is a hidden gem, nestled in a semi-arid area where the tana river takes center stage. The park’s scenery is a far cry from ordinary, boasting a diverse landscape that runs the gamut from lush riverine forests to open savannahs, rocky outcrops, and rolling hills.
When it comes to wildlife, kora national park is the real deal. Visitors can spot the big five – elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas – as well as baboons and a plethora of bird species. Game drives offer a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife, while a boat ride on the tana river provides a unique perspective on crocodiles and hippos. One of the park’s crowning glories is Adamson’s falls, named after the renowned conservationist George Adamson. Located on the tana river, the falls are a sight to behold.
All in all, kora national park is a wild and wonderful place that’s off the beaten path. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience Kenya’s untamed beauty and wildlife in all its glory.
Adamson falls.
Tucked away in the northern part of Kenya, kora national park is home to the breathtaking Adamson falls. Named after the illustrious conservationist George Adamson, renowned for his groundbreaking work with lions, the falls are a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Located on the life-giving tana river, Adamson falls is a series of picturesque cascades that plummet into a serene pool below. The surrounding landscape is characterized by lush vegetation and rugged rocky outcrops, creating a tranquil atmosphere that invites exploration.
Wildlife
Kora national park is a treasure trove of wildlife diversity, boasting an impressive array of common and rare species. As you venture into the park, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter an incredible range of animals, including; African elephants that are seen roaming freely in their natural habitat, these gentle giants are a sight to behold, cape buffalo, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, oryx, grant’s gazelle, the rare and elusive lesser kudu, that inhabit the parks woodlands, warthogs, baboons. With its incredible variety of wildlife, kora national park is a paradise for enthusiasts and nature lovers. Every visit offers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders of the African savannah.
Birdlife
Kora national park is a bird watcher’s haven, boasting an incredible diversity of habitats and bird species. With over 450 species documented within the park, it’s a destination that’s sure to delight even the most discerning bird enthusiasts. Some of the park’s avian highlights include: African fish eagle, martial eagle, one of Africa’s largest and most powerful eagles, vultures like the iconic African white-backed vulture, hornbills, ostriches, kingfishers, bee-eaters. The tana river, flowing gently through the park, provides a perfect habitat for a variety of waterbirds, including; African skimmer, goliath heron, African pygmy goose. While bird watching can be enjoyed year-round in kora national park, the dry season from June to October is considered the best time. During this period, the birdlife is most active and easily visible, making it a prime time for spotting those elusive species.
Rock climbing
For experienced climbers seeking a new challenge, kora national park in Kenya offers an unparalleled rock-climbing experience. The park’s unique landscape, featuring rocky outcrops and granite cliffs, provides the perfect setting for an adrenaline-fueled adventure. The park boasts a variety of climbing routes, catering to climbers of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Whether you prefer traditional climbing, sport climbing, or bouldering, the park has something to offer.
The kora rocks, a series of granite cliffs rising up to 50 meters high, are a magnet for climbers. This popular spot offers a range of climbing challenges, from easy slab climbs to demanding overhangs. To ensure a safe and enjoyable climbing experience, it’s crucial for climbers to bring your own climbing gear, including ropes, harnesses, and climbing shoes and possess experience with lead climbing and multi-pitch climbs. While climbing, remember to stay on designated climbing routes and avoid disturbing the park’s wildlife and environment.
When to visit
The best time to visit kora national park is during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February). During the dry seasons, its easier to see the wildlife as the animals congregate near water sources, making it easier to spot. Roads are easier to navigate during the dry seasons and camping is more accessible.
During the wet seasons, from November to may, the roads can be difficult to navigate, and the vegetation is long making it harder to spot the animals. Many animals also disperse beyond the park during this time.
