Kora National Park

The Park, named after the nearby Kora River, is a breathtaking wilderness adorned with inselbergs, vast acacia woodlands, and graceful doum palms, offering a surreal, untouched landscape. Visitors can explore the majestic Adamson’s Falls, Grand Falls, and the thrilling Kora Rapids, each a testament to the raw power and beauty of nature.

The park’s unique topography, crisscrossed by seasonal rivers and bordered by the Tana River, serves as a living tribute to the Adamsons’ pioneering work in wildlife conservation. Today, local guides, well-versed in the rich history of the Adamsons and the park’s diverse ecosystems, ensure that every visitor gains an immersive experience, learning about both the natural beauty and the profound legacy that continues to inspire global conservation efforts.

Activities in Kora National Park

• Wildlife viewing
• Birdwatching
• Walking safaris
• River Safaris
• Wildlife Photography
• Visit Adamson’s Camp

Legacy of Gorge & Joy Adamson

George and Joy Adamson were pioneering conservationists whose profound dedication to wildlife preservation, particularly big cats, left an indelible mark on East Africa’s history. They are most famously known for their work with the lioness Elsa, which was the subject of their bestselling book Born Free and subsequent film adaptations, highlighting the importance of wildlife rehabilitation and reintroduction into natural habitats. Their legacy is deeply embedded in Kora National Park, a location that was once their home and base for their groundbreaking conservation work.

Climate

Kora National Park experiences a semi-arid climate, with high temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C throughout much of the year. The weather is characterized by minimal rainfall, making the region quite dry, particularly during the long dry season. The short rainy season (usually from March to May) brings brief, intense showers, while the dry months from June to October see clear skies and warmer temperatures. The Park is also prone to strong winds that sweep across the landscape, adding to its rugged, arid character. Due to its semi-desert conditions and proximity to the Tana River, temperatures can drop slightly during the cooler evenings, offering a balanced yet extreme environment that showcases the park’s unique ecology.

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kora National Park is during the dry season from June to October. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and clear, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for game drives, river safaris, and wildlife photography. Wildlife is also easier to spot as animals tend to congregate around water sources, and the park’s rugged terrain is more accessible. While the park can be visited year-round, the dry season offers the most favorable conditions for enjoying its natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

How to get there

By Road: Kora is located 280 km northeast of Nairobi. Access is via Thika to Mwingi, then northeast through Kyuso village.

By Air: The Park can be accessed through three airstrips, namely Kyethoni, Kambi ya Simba airstrips in Kora, and Masanduku airstrip in Meru National Park.