Gazetted in 1962, Marsabit National Park is one of the remote national parks in Kenya. It is nestled on the foothills of Mount Marsabit in northern Kenya rising up out of the surrounding desert region, 560 km north of Nairobi in Marsabit District in Eastern Province.
The Park spans over an area of 360 sq km. Its vegetation is dominated by thorny bush in the lower zone, merging into acacia grassland, while brown olive forest dominates the higher ground and it is more noted for its zebra population and a variety of other wildlife. Its landscape is equally exciting and has a charm of its own which attracts nature lovers and photographers.
Marsabit National Park has several different species of animals which include the Cheetahs, Lions, Elephants, Warthogs, Striped Hyenas, Leopards, Rhinos, Buffalos and Antelopes. It also shelters the rare Peters’ gazelles (an indigenous species of Grant’s gazelle), beisa oryx and Burchell’s Zebras. The surrounding Marsabit Forest offers a great habitat for the predator animals.
Marsabit National Park is home to a variety of colourful and magnificent rare birds. Over 400species of birds have been recorded including the Somali ostrich, black kite, African fish eagle, vulturine guinea fowl, masked and Williams’ lark, Somali bee-eater, Heuglin’s bustard and cream-coloured courser. Lake Paradise is an enchanting spot for water birds such as the duck, little grebe, Hammerkop, ibis, purple heron and saddle-billed and yellow-billed stork.
Best Time to Visit
Generally, January-march is hot and dry; April-June is hot and wet, July-October is very warm and dry; November and December are warm and wet.
Open: Daily from 6:00 am – 7:00 pm including public holidays. Note: No entry is allowed on foot. Visitors will not be allowed entry after 6:15 pm.
By Road: Marsabit is 560 km north of Nairobi; the park’s main gate is at the edge of Marsabit Town. The Park is accessible only by 4 X4 Safari vehicles off the tarmac road. Visitors to Marsabit Park can also drive through neighbouring Samburu Game Reserve crossing the Euaso Nyiro River.
By Air: There is an Airstrip at Marsabit, 4km from the park’s main gate. It is highly recommended to fly into Marsabit because the road from Isiolo is very rough and with banditry cases reported.
Marsabit Lodge
Conveniently located 8km from Marsabit Airstrip, Marsabit lodge delights 24 fully refurbished guestrooms all with private bathrooms and back doors giving access to the balcony. Guests enjoy uninterrupted scenic views of Marsabit Mountains Range which rises from the expansive Chalbi Desert. The lodges also offer a perfect picnic site if you wish to engage in some relaxation after a long day of exploring the Park. This is the only accommodation facility located in the park premises; strategically located to allow stunning views to the park from all its rooms. Alternatively, you can choose to use campsites.
Public Campsites
Ahmed Campsite is located by the main Ahmed gate, 3.2km from Marsabit Lodge. The campsite facilities include; picnic tables, latrines, water and showers.
Abdul Campsite is located by Abdul gate, close to park headquarters. Its facilities include; cooking Banda, picnic tables, latrines, water and showers.
Special Campsites
– Lake Paradise Campsite – the site is located in a grassy clearing on the shores of Lake Paradise.
– Abdul Gate Public Site
– Ahmed Gate Public Campsite
Caution!
Any camping here requires the presence of a ranger overnight.
Bird watching:
Bird Watchers have a treat in store at Marsabit National Park. Binoculars, cameras, Sun hat, Sunscreen and sunglasses are however paramount for successful birding. With patience, birders are guaranteed the sight of several rare birds. If possible use a local birding guide. Some of the birds that can be easily spotted on birding trails include the olive pigeon and Hartlaub’s turaco.
Game Viewing:
The real pleasure of being in Marsabit is spotting the wild animals especially the several zebras. You need to utmost silent while spotting the zebras. The very look of the zebras will excite you immensely. But please do not panic or make noise. They won’t harm you if you don’t disturb them.
Game Drives:
Driving circuits are another way of viewing wildlife. Visitors are able to travel and cover longer distances. It is essential that you have a guide book during the drives.
Photographic Safaris:
If you love photography, the park offers some bewitching views of the Marsabit Ranges which are worth a click.
