About Malka Mari National Park
Tucked away in Kenya’s remote northern frontier, Malka Mari National Park is a wilderness gem offering rewarding wildlife safaris, breathtaking scenery, and immersive adventure experiences. Gazetted in 1989, the 876 km² park lies along the Daua River on the Kenya–Ethiopia border in Mandera County, where semi-arid plains meet palm-lined riverine woodlands.
Rich in biodiversity and plant endemism, Malka Mari serves as a vital dry-season refuge for wildlife—while providing serene settings for wellness safaris, night wildlife encounters under star-filled skies, and striking landscapes ideal for visual storytelling.
Deeply connected to local heritage and shaped by frontier cultures, the park also supports outdoor challenges and group experiences—making it a hidden destination where adventure, conservation, and culture come together.
Important Information
- Daua River Ecosystem: Abundant crocodiles, hippos, and diverse fish species
- Unique Plant Endemism: Rare and endemic plant species including Delonix elata, Terminalia, Euphorbia, Acacia, Mellia vulcansii, Aristida, Chloris (foxtail grass), Commiphora, Combretum, Aloe, and Sansevieria
- Scenic & Historic Landmarks;Â Striking semi-arid landscapes as well as Old colonial military graves, historic buildings, the Goro Ade ruin
Gazetted in 1989, Malka Mari National Park was established to protect the unique arid ecosystems of the Mandera Plateau and its wildlife adapted to extreme dryland conditions. Since its creation, the park has conserved critical habitats, safeguarded biodiversity, and maintained its largely undisturbed natural character as one of Kenya’s most remote and least-visited protected areas.
From Nairobi by Road:
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Via A2 :
Travel north on the A2 tarmac road through Isiolo to Moyale. From Moyale, take the D504 road east through Yabdus and Sara Hills to Takaba (about 160 km), then head north past Derkale to Bannissa (65 km from Takaba). This is considered the safest and most secure route. -
Via B9 (North Eastern Route):
Travel via Thika – Garissa – Wajir – Mandera to Elwak. From Elwak, head west to Takaba (about 140 km), then drive north to Bannissa (65 km). The total distance from Nairobi to Bannissa is approximately 1,400 km.
From Nairobi by Air:
Airstrips;
- Rhamu Airstrip
- Takaba airstrip
- Malka Mari Airstrip
- Mandera Main Airstrip
- Elwak Airstrip
- Personal effect
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Cooler
- Snacks
- Drinking water – Reusable water bottles
- First aid essentials
- Binoculars
Your safety matters. Please review our essential guidelines to help ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for you and for the wildlife.
- You are in the wildlife’s home. Please respect their privacy and right of way.
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National parks are plastic-free. Single-use plastic is prohibited.
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General road rules apply. Car hooting or driving under the influence of alcohol are strictly prohibited.
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Adhere to park entry and exit times. Gates open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM, unless you are spending overnight.
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Move slowly and quietly. Animals can react dangerously if startled.
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Noise distracts wildlife. Use mobile phones and sound devices sparingly and only in designated areas.
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Remain in your vehicle unless in designated areas. Keep doors closed at all times.
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Observe the maximum speed limit of 40 km/h (25 mph). Speeding attracts penalties.
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Stay on established roads and trails. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited.
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View wildlife from a minimum distance of 20 meters.
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Feeding wildlife is prohibited, as it disrupts their diet and leads to human dependency.
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Carry out all trash to help keep the park clean.
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Do not leave campfires unattended while camping.
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Visitors enter the park at their own risk and Terms and conditions apply.
Malka Mari National Park Rates
- East Africa Citizen: Individuals holding Kenyan nationality
- Kenya Residents: Foreign nationals legally residing in Kenya.
- African Citizens: Africa nationals (excluding Kenya and EA countries)
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Non-residents: Foreigners visiting on a valid visa
East Africa Citizen Adult
KES.
East Africa Citizen Child
KES.
Kenya
Resident Adult
KES.
Kenya
Resident Child
KES.
Non
Resident Adult
USD
Non
Resident Child
USD
Africa
Citizen Adult
USD
Africa
Citizen Child
USD
Malka Mari National Park Gallery
