Kora National Park

Size and Location

  • Kora National Park covers an area of approximately 1,788 square kilometers (694 square miles).
  • The park is located in Tana River County, Kenya, approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) east of Mount Kenya.
  • It borders Meru National Park along its northern boundary for 65 kilometers (40 miles).

Landscape and History

  • Kora Park was initially designated a nature reserve in 1973 and was elevated to national park status in 1989 following the tragic death of conservationist George Adamson.
  • The park features a diverse landscape with scenic rocky outcrops known as Inselbergs, acacia woodlands, doum palms, and the mighty Tana River running along its northern border.
  • The Tana River boasts attractions such as Adamson's Falls, Grand Falls, and exciting Kora rapids.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

  • Kora is habitat to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, various antelope species like the lesser kudu, and more.
  • Over 400 bird species make Kora National Park a paradise for birdwatchers, with species including eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, hornbills, among other colorful residents.
  • Kora plays a vital role in conserving Kenya’s wildlife heritage and providing a protected habitat for numerous species.

Activities and Amenities

  • Activities available to visitors include game drives, bird watching, scenic hikes, rock climbing on the Inselbergs, and white-water rafting on the Tana River.
  • Camping is popular in the park, allowing visitors to experience the vast Kenyan sky and wilderness firsthand.

Accommodation

  • Accommodation options range from luxury lodges like Leopard Rock Lodge and Elsa's Kopje Lodge to midrange and budget options such as Meru Guest House and iKWETA Safari Camp.

Cultural Significance of Kora Park

  • Kora holds historical significance as the former home of George Adamson, a renowned conservationist, with his grave located within the park.
  • An annual memorial event is held to honor Adamson’s legacy, celebrating his contributions to wildlife conservation.

How to Access Kora Park

  • Kora National Park can be accessed by road from Nairobi, which is the nearest major city.
  • Air transport is available with domestic flights from Nairobi flying to Kyethoni Airstrip and Kampi Ya Simba Airstrip within the park.

Best Time to Visit Kora Park

  • The best time to visit Kora National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October, when the roads and trails are dry and more accessible for exploration.

Kora National Park Info