Malka Mari National Park is located on the northern edge of Kenya, right along the border with Ethiopia, beside the Daua River on the Mandera Plateau. The park was established in 1989 to safeguard the remarkable variety of wildlife. This park covers an area of approximately 1,500 square kilometers (370,000 acres). The ark is mostly semi-arid bushland and scrubby grassland with riparian woodland and along the river. There are plants in the park that are unique to the area.
Malka Mari National Park is a vast park with the most beautiful landscape from the anthill to the dancing gazelles where the largest species can be spotted such as Somali giraffes, spotted hyenas, dik-dik, Cheetah, Nile Crocodile busking on the sand of the great Daua river among others, it is very natural as compared to other national parks in Kenya. All in all, this is an ideal place to visit.
Despite the presence of nearby human settlement, the park the park boosts with flora and fauna with a spectacular scenic landscape with common vegetation comprised of semi-arid bushland and scrubby grassland, woodland along the river. However, the park is under the responsibility of the International Union for Conservation of Nature ‘’IUCN’’ as a Category 11 park.
An interesting fact is that the ideal for creating this park originated in Mandera as early 1974, showcasing the area’s long-staining recognition for its natural beauty and unique biodiversity.
CLIMATE
Malka Mari National Park area is both hot and dry dominated with semi-arid bushland and scrubby grassland with riparian forest and palms by Dawa riverbanks.
ATTRACTIONS OF MALKA MARI NATIONAL PARK
Wildlife
Malka Mari National Park is home to an abundance of animals. Among the creatures you might see are the stunning reticulated giraffes, Oryx, lesser kudu, zebras, foxes’, Vultures, dik-diks, greater kudu, Impalas, Thompson Gazelles, waterbuck, agama lizards, Bobcats, genet, Moose, Coyotes, Bighorn sheep roam, gray wolves, the area, making for a lively atmosphere. The park is also home to various primate species such as monkeys, baboons,
For those interested in the park’s predators, you’ll find Lion, Cheetah, Spotted Hyena, Jackals, Leopard, and even Wild dogs lurking in the grasslands. Additionally, the river Daua, winding through the park, is home to Crocodiles, Hippopotamuses, and various fish species, adding to the rich wildlife experience.
Birdlife of Malka Mari National Park
Malka Mari National Park is home to over 20 bird species including Shelley’s starling, Carmine bee-eater and African pygmy kingfisher, Magpie starling, White-throated bee-eater, wattled starling, Lilac-breasted roller, Common sandpiper, Heuglin’s bustard, and many others. Other bird species. The park’s habitat which characterized by valleys, hills, Malka Mara fort, and plateaus act as the habitat for these fascinating birds.
Vegetation
The plant life in Malka Mari National Park is just as fascinating as its animals. The park is noted for its unique plants, many of which are not found anywhere else. The landscape is a blend of trees, shrubs, herbs, Forbes, and grasses, featuring species like the Delonix elata, Terminalia Euphorbia, and various types of Acacia. You might also spot Mellia vulcansii, along with grasses such as Aristida and Chloris, and other interesting plants like Commiphora, Combretum, Aloe and Sensiveria among other species.
More so, the park is rich in medicinal plants, showcasing the incredible diversity of the region.
ACTIVITIES IN MALKA MARI NATIONAL PARK
There are quite a number of activities visitors can enjoy while at Malka Mari and they include;
Wildlife Viewing
Malka Mari National Park is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. During your wildlife viewing tours, you have the chance to see a diverse range of animals including zebras, Agama lizards, genets, Nile crocodiles along River Daua, giraffes, Dik-Diks, gazelles, antelopes and even spotted hyenas among others. It’s a real treat for anyone keen to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
Birdwatching
For those passionate about birdwatching, this park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Many colorful and interesting bird species can be seen during game drives. While on your birdwatching tour, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of colorful bird species including the desert crow bird species such as the Lilac-breasted roller, Common sandpiper, Heuglin’s bustard, Shelley’s starling, Carmine bee-eater African pygmy kingfisher, Magpie starling, White-throated bee-eater and wattled starling among others.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
One of the most thrilling experiences here is a hot air balloon safari, which typically takes place early in the morning. It’s rewarding since you see hyenas returning back to their dens after a hunt, it’s also a good opportunity for photographers to take the best shots.
Cultural Experiences
While at Malka Mari, you will experience the unique African culture by visiting the people and supporting them by purchasing some unique handmade crafts to take back home for remembrance or to your loved ones.
Guided Nature Walks and Hiking
Engaging in guided nature walks and hiking excursions allows you to explore the park up close. During this activity, you might spot crocodiles basking by the Daua River. Additionally, a visit to the Malka Mari fort offers a glimpse into the area’s history and gives you a chance to appreciate the scenery further.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MALKA MARI NATIONAL PARK
Malka Mari National Park is visited throughout the year because it has semi-arid dry parts and dense bushes which provide good visibility to spot animals within the park.
WHERE TO STAY
Tarangire National Park renowned for Tarangire its stunning landscape and diverse wildlife, offers an array of exceptional accommodation facilities that cater to the varied preferences of visitors. The accommodation here ranges from Budget, and mid-range to luxury options such as De L Horloge, Al-Marwa Hotel, Galana Palace Hotel, Offbeat Meru Camp, Malkamari Lodge and Banisa Guest House among others.
How to Reach Malka Mari National Park
Getting to Malka Mari National Park is quite easy, no matter if you like to travel by car or take a flight.
By Road
If you’re driving, you have two main options. The first route starts in Isiolo and takes you north, going through Moyale near the Ethiopian border. The second route heads east through a place called Sara Hill. This eastern path is about 160 kilometers long and will take you to Banissa, a little village with an airstrip for visitors heading to the park.
By Air
For those who prefer flying, there are a few domestic airstrips available. You can fly from Wilson Airport in Nairobi straight to the Banissa airstrip. There are also additional airstrips nearby, like Malka Mari, Takaba, Elwak, and the main airstrip in Mandera. These options make it convenient to get to the stunning views and unique environment of Malka Mari National Park.
