In this article, we will expound more on Mwea National Reserve including the entrance fees, location and animals to be found!
Mwea National Reserve is a hidden gem in Kenya offering an authentic safari experience and unforgettable wildlife encounters and an exciting experience for ornithologists. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply just looking for a relaxing getaway, this reserve has something for everyone.
With no further ado, let us discuss Mwea National Reserve.
Mwea National Reserve is a protected reserve located in Central Kenya, in Embu, which is located on the eastern side of the Great Rift Valley to be precise. It is located in Mbere District and the nearest town is Siakago. It is approximately 150 km from Nairobi using the Nairobi – Embu highway, on your way to Embu.
Mwea Park borders Tana River to the South and Thiba River to the East, and it covers an area of approximately 42-48 square kilometers.
Check Out: Top 10 Places to Visit in Embu
Game drives at Mwea National Reserve offers a thrilling way to experience wildlife in Kenya with its scenic landscape, diverse wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Explore the reserve’s diverse flora and fauna including the open plains, the woodlands and the beautiful riverline forests. The game drives are often done early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the animals are active and in their natural habitats. During these 4X4 safari drives, you will spot wildlife, get up-close and personal with nature and the reserve’s diverse fauna, and experience the breathtaking landscapes.
Bird watching is one of the main attractions at Mwea National Park and it is a haven for bird enthusiasts since they offer a diverse range of birds that you can spot. The park has been reports to have more than 200 species of birds, including some rare and endangered species.
For bird watching, it is recommended you do it in the morning or in the late afternoon because birds are usually active during these times. You could also carry a field guide to help you identify some of the birds.
Birds you might spot at Mwea National Reserve include:
Guided nature walks are some of the things to do in Mwea National Reserve. This is your ideal opportunity to experience the scenic landscapes and smell the fresh air of nature while moving on your feet.
With the help of the trained guides, you will be able to spot several wildlife species and even learn a thing or two about them. You will also spot some rare bird species and get a chance to take some photos for future reference. Do not forget the essentials of nature walks, which include dressing comfortably for nature walks and hiking, and also remember to carry water and some snacks to re-energize on your walk.
The renowned Mwea Irrigation Scheme is the largest irrigation project in Kenya and it is located within the reserve. The scheme provides an opportunity to learn more about rice cultivation techniques, while offering you a picturesque view of the rice paddies.
Visiting Mwea Rice Irrigation Scheme in Mwea National Park will enable you to witness rice cultivation and the process the different types of rice go through before they are ready to be sold or for export. You will also learn a thing or two about sustainable farming and eco-tourism in Mwea.
The local communities surrounding Mwea National Park have a rich cultural heritage and you might get the chance to indulge them and learn a thing or two if interested.
The Kikuyu and Embu communities, which have inhabited the area for ages, are very welcoming communities and they are always ready to help you learn their way of life, daily activities, and gain a deeper understanding regarding their culture and traditions. Ensure you try their delicacies like pilau, which is made from local rice, harvested from their farms. You might also spot some traditional crafts and wood carvings, which might make a good souvenir.
Since Mwea Park borders Tana River and Thiba River, there are opportunities for exploring the waters and trying out water activities.
Boating does not only offer the opportunity to navigate through the waters and explore the rivers’ channels, but it also gives you the chance to explore marine life. During your boat rides, you will notice some of the water creatures like crocodiles and hippos among other aquatic animals. If you have the necessary permits, you might also get a chance to catch a a fish at Tana River.
Camping at Mwea Park offers a chance to connect with nature, and relax in a peaceful environment while enjoying Kenya’s flora and fauna.
The advantage of camping at Mwea National Reserve is that there are designated campsites in the reserve that offer basic facilities and at a small fee, you will get to enjoy the evening in the wild, starry skies, and serene surroundings. You might also encounter wildlife during your stay, hence having an up-close view of some of the wildlife in the park. You might also request for a tour guide to help follow park procedures in case you encounter the wildlife.
For best and efficient camping, ensure you make a reservation in advance.
Being one of the best places to visit in Embu and one of the instagrammable places in Kenya, Mwea National Reserve offers a fantastic opportunity to capture the beauty of our wildlife and landscapes.
Take advantage of the golden hour, which occurs during the early mornings and late afternoons to get softer and warmer lighting for your photos and videos as you capture images of the wildlife and the scenic landscape in Mwea Park. Photography will also give you a chance to capture wildlife in their natural habitat and give you an unforgettable experience.
Mwea National Reserve is home to very many animals and diverse wildlife, which contribute to the fun things to do in Mwea. They include:
Mammals
Reptiles
Over 200 bird species including Pel’s fishing owls and African Fish Eagles.
The best time to visit Mwea National Park is mostly during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the animals usually congregate around the water sources hence it is easier to spot them. The dry season also offers the opportunity to navigate the game park with ease because the roads are not slippery or muddy.
If you are more of a bird watcher, it is recommended to visit during the wet season, which runs from November to May. Though it might be challenging to navigate the reserve, you will experience lush vegetation and will be able to spot more bird species.
Mwea National Park Entrance and Activity Fees
| Activity | Fee (Adult / Group) |
| Entrance (Citizen / Resident) | KSH 300 |
| Entrance (Non-Resident) | USD 25 |
| Vehicle Entry (<6 seats) | KSH 300 |
| Guided Nature Walk / Bird watching | KSH 300 (Citizen) / USD 15 |
| Picnic (excluding vehicle) | KSH 100 / USD 10 |
| Public Campsite (per person) | KSH 200 / USD 20 |
| Special Campsite (per person) | KSH 250 / USD 35 |
| Special Campsite Reservation (per week) | KSH 7,500 (non-refundable) |
| Photo Session (event per group) | KSH 3,000 / USD 30 |
| Boat Ride (Kamburu Dam) | KSH 1,300 |
| Game Viewing, Boat Rides, Hippo/Bird Sighting | Included with entrance; no separate rate |
Join us for an unforgettable adventure! Book your safari tour with us and experience the thrill of wildlife sightings, scenic beauty and breathtaking landscapes. Contact us on email via info@zungukasafaris.com or our contacts on the website to book your spot and create memories that will last a lifetime.
You can also call us on +(254) 741 79 22 92 or +(254) 797 10 02 00
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