Marsabit National Park
Marsabit National park also a Nature reserve and it is located at Mount Marsabit in Northern Kenya, the park 560km North of Nairobi in Marsabit County in the former Eastern Province and its reserve is renowned for its zebra population and also a bird sanctuary.
A remote paradise for the Nature enthusiasts and it lies in an oasis of green in desert region in far north of Kenya with spectacular views. Its densely forested Mountain with 3 Crater lakes in it provides a paradise for a variety of birds, mammals as well as reptiles. The park is also famous for its wide range of impressive tusked-elephants although it is less known for game drives.
Established in 1949 to protect the wildlife in the area and it covers an approximate area of 1,554sqkm. Its forested mountain rises spectacularly from the middle of a desert wilderness and it provides the only source of permanent surface water in the region and the extinct volcanic craters locally known as gofs around the Park make Marsabit such a wonderland.
An overflowing adventure destination depicting a line-up of endless activity options awaiting the nature lovers. Sometimes the only therapy the human body, mind and soul craves and thirsts for is the simple yet magically refreshing moments in the quietude of space and time.
Marsabit County is home to over ten different communities each with a unique and unspoilt culture. These include the larger pastoralist communities such as Borana, Rendille, Gabbra, Somali, Turkana, Samburu and the lesser known agro-pastoralists, skilled black smiths, hunters and gatherers such as the Saakuye, Garri, Konso, Sidama, Waata and Dasanach.
Activities in Marsabit National Park
Marsabit National Park has a number of activities for Tourists to engage in and they include;
Game viewing
Game viewing in Marsabit National Park is best done in early morning and late afternoon hours. Here, wildlife viewing can be rewarding with sightings of different wildlife such as Zebras, Lions, Giraffes, Elephants, Buffaloes, Bushbucks, Black and White Colobuses, Blue Monkeys, Sunis and Leopards among others.
Hiking
Marsabit National Park’s landscape is made up of an extinct Volcano standing 1,707m above sea level. This volcano dominated by thick forests with many tree species and the forest hosts a variety of animal and bird species. Hikers here follow perfectly kept trails as they hike to the Top of the Volcano with the help of a ranger guide.
Birding
Here, birding is done following trails with a help of a birder guide who is knowledgeable about where to find these birds. Among the birds spotted include; Somali bee-eater, masked lark, Somali sparrow, African olive pigeon, Hartlaub’s turaco, Heuglin’s bustard, bearded vulture, little grebe and also migratory bird species.
Rock climbing
Rock Climbing an adventurous activity carried out on stark massif of Ol Olokwe. Located south of Marsabit and it offers wonderful climbing routes conducted by a trained guide with local knowledge.
Visit the singing wells
While at this Park, you will get a chance to watch the Samburu families taking their herds of cattle to the Singing Wells where they dig for water to fill up troughs for their cows, camels and also goats. They do so by singing various interesting songs as they draw water from the well for their livestock.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Marsabit National Park is during the dry season from June to October and from December to March.
How to get to Marsabit National Park
Reached using both road and air transport means.
By Road, Marsabit National Park is about 560km North of Nairobi and 263km North of Isiolo.
Marsabit Entry Gates
Marsabit National Park has 2 Entry gates and they include;
The Ahmed Gate
The Abdul Gate
Accommodations in Marsabit National Park
Marsabit National Park consists of different Accommodations ranging from Luxury and Mid-Range to Budget and they include;
Luxury Accommodations
Normads Trail Hotel
Sand and Rock Resort
Marsabit Lodge
Mid-Range Accommodations
Jirime Hotel and Resort
Sylvia Inn Hotel
Gof Hotel