Overview–kenya

Kora National Park

Kora National Park is situated in Tana River County, Kenya, covering an area of approximately 1,788 square kilometers. It is located about 280 kilometers northeast of Nairobi and 125 kilometers east of Mount Kenya. The park was initially established as a nature reserve in 1973 and later designated as a national park in 1989.

Geography and Topography

The Park features a diverse topography that slopes gently from an altitude of 490 meters in the southwest to about 270 meters in the northeast. The central region consists of an undulating pene plain with rocky inselbergs, which are domed hills or hard rocks protruding from the landscape. Notable inselbergs within Kora include Mansumbi (488m), Kumbulanwa (450m), and Kora Rock (442m). The cracks and crevices of these formations support various herbs, shrubs, and small trees.

Boundaries and Water Features

Kora National Park is bordered by Meru National Park to the north, with the Tana River marking a significant portion of this boundary. Key features along the river include Adamson’s Falls, Grand Falls, and the Kora Rapids. Additionally, the eastern boundary of the park is defined by the Mwitamvisi River.

Flora and Fauna
The vegetation primarily consists of acacia bushland interspersed with riverine forests featuring doum palms and Tana River poplar trees. Wildlife diversity includes species such as caracals, Tanzanian cheetahs, African bush elephants, hippopotamuses, spotted and striped hyenas, African leopards, lions, servals, wildcats, and various antelope species. However, animal densities are relatively low due to historical poaching issues.

Historical Context

The park has a notable history tied to wildlife conservationist George Adamson who lived there for over two decades. His efforts to rehabilitate lions and leopards back into the wild were significant until his tragic murder by poachers in 1989. This event marked a decline in wildlife protection efforts within Kora until recent revitalization initiatives led by organizations like the Kenyan Wildlife Service (KWS) began around 2012.

Visitor Experience
Kora National Park offers limited tourist facilities; thus visitors should prepare for self-guided experiences or guided game drives to explore its wilderness. Activities available include bird watching, hiking, river rafting on the Tana River, fishing, rock climbing, camping at designated sites like Ekime campsite, and visiting historical sites associated with George Adamson.

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Rates

From: $176 to $724 pp/day

Best Time to Go

From: June to October (Little to no rainfall)

High Season

From: December to March and July to October (Not busy)

Size

From: 1,787km² / 690mi²

Wildlife & Animals

Kora is connected to Meru National Park. Although many big safari animals roam across the border and can be found in Kora, animal densities are quite low. Elephants, hippos, hyenas, and lions are present. The grave of Elsa (the lioness from ‘Born Free’) lies just across the border in Meru National Park.

General Wheather

The climate in Kora is generally hot and dry throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October when wildlife viewing conditions are optimal due to lower grass heights making animals easier to spot.

Dry Season–June to October

During the Dry season, daytime temperatures are usually around 23°C/73°F at higher altitudes, such as the Masai Mara, and 28°C/82°F at lower altitudes, such as the coastal areas. The sky is clear and the days are sunny.

June, July, August, September & October – These are the coldest months. Early morning temperatures at higher altitudes are typically 10°C/50°F. It is advisable to pack warm clothing, as early morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold.

Wet Season–November to May

During the Wet season, daytime temperatures are between 24°C/75°F and 27°C/81°F at higher altitudes. At lower altitudes, daytime temperatures are more consistent and hover around 30°C/86°F. Mornings stay cool at higher altitudes, and it is advisable to pack warm clothes for early morning game drives.

November & December – 'Short rains' – A period of unpredictable short rains between November and December that lasts about a month. The rain is sometimes heavy, but mostly falls in the late afternoon or evening, and will seldom harm your safari.
January & February – During these months, a hot, dry spell in the rainy season occurs. How long the spell lasts and when it takes place exactly is unpredictable.
March, April & May – 'Long rains' – These months get the most rain. It’s very cloudy, especially in the highlands, including in Aberdare National Park and Laikipia Plateau. Humidity is higher and will be particularly noticeable in the coastal regions.

Prons

Excellent wilderness appeal
Great birding
Beautiful scenery with several waterfalls
Historic sites associated with George Adamson's life

Cons

Relatively low animal densities and no habituation to vehicles and people
No tourist facilities or accommodations

How To Get There

Kora is 280km/174 mi northeast of Nairobi. A fully equipped 4x4 is essential. If visiting independently, it’s advisable to travel in a party of at least two vehicles.
There are no domestic flights to Kora. The nearest airstrip is in Meru National Park.