In this article, we cover Malka Mari National Park Entrance Fees. Malka Mari National Park is situated along the Daua River on the Kenya-Ethiopia border in northern Kenya. It covers an area of approximately 1,500 square kilometres and can be reached via Mandera Airport. Despite its unique features, it is one of the least visited national parks in Kenya. The park consists mostly of semi-arid bushland, scrubby grassland, and riparian woodland along the river, hosting a variety of plants that are exclusive to the area.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, such as the Somali giraffe, crocodile, hyena, agama lizards, antelopes, vultures, dik-dik, Nile crocodiles, zebras, and genets. Additionally, it is a habitat for over 20 species of birds, including streptopelia decipiens, cichladusa guttata, ploceus dichrocephalus, and the rare corvus ruficollis, also known as the desert crow.
Malka Mari National Park was established in 1989 due to its high abundance of animals. The area is classified as a plant endemism hotspot (NBU,1992) and a potential Important Bird Area. The park is also rich in history, including old colonial military graves, old colonial buildings, hills, valleys, and mountains. Ruins, such as Goro Ade and the Colonial Airstrip. It also features riverine and riparian vegetation, small hills, and valleys.
Malka Mari National Park Activities
1. Game Viewing
The park is home to a huge concentration of wildlife with various species, which makes the park a great destination for spotting wildlife, Game viewing is done on morning and afternoon game drives or full-day game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop window for clear views of the animals.
During the game drives, you will be able to spot animals such as spotted Hyenas, Antelopes, Dik-Dik, Genets, Zebras, Giraffes, Grey Wolf, Mountain lions, Bobcats, Moose, Coyotes, Bighorn sheep, Gazelles and Nile Crocodiles seen along Daua River.
2. Hot Air Balloon
Hot air ballooning is a unique safari activity and a fascinating way to enjoy the spectacular views of the park during your safari. Hot air ballooning is a perfect alternative to game viewing. Hot air balloon offers rewarding aerial views of the park and several species of beautiful animals roaming the landscape of the park below. The activity starts early in the morning to catch the spectacular sunrise and animals such as spotted hyenas as they return to their dens after hunting. The hot air balloon experience is a perfect experience to do in the park, especially for photographers.
3. Cultural Experience
During your visit to Malka Mari National Park, you get an opportunity to visit the local communities lying across the borders of the park. Cultural experience offers visitors an opportunity to experience the local lifestyle of the local people, their culture and traditions. You will also get to purchase some handmade crafts to take home as souvenirs.
4. Guided Nature Walks and Hiking
Guided nature walks and hiking are exciting safari activities to do in Malka Mari National Park. During these activities, you get to walk through the park on foot and along the River Dawa, where you will spot Nile crocodiles in the water of the river and various animals drinking water in the river. You will also visit Malka Mari Fort.
Best Time To Visit Malka Mari National Park
Visitors are free to visit the park throughout the calendar year. The rainy seasons fall in March and April (short rains), and the long rains of November and December are the best times to visit to enjoy the emerald vegetation. A 4×4 car is recommended
Malka Mari National Park Entry Fees
High Season (July–February)
| EAC Citizen/Resident (Ksh) | Charges |
| Adult | Ksh 300 |
| Child/Student | Ksh 250 |
| Rest of Africa (US$) | |
| Adult | 20 USD |
| Child/Student | 15 USD |
| International Visitors (US$) | |
| Adult | 25 USD |
| Child/Student | 15 USD |
Low Season (March–June)
| EAC Citizen/Resident (Ksh) | Charges |
| Adult | Ksh 250 |
| Child/Student | Ksh 200 |
| Rest of Africa (US$) | |
| Adult | 15 USD |
| Child/Student | 10 USD |
| International Visitors (US$) | |
| Adult | 20 USD |
| Child/Student | 15 USD |
Malka Mari National Park Contacts
Email: malkamarinp@kws.go.ke
Phone: +254723202000, +254 726099213
