Mwea National Reserve
Small hills with bushy vegetation and scattered huge trees
Mwea National Reserve lies in the Eastern Province, in the Mbeere District, about 200 kilometers from Nairobi. The reserve is a scenic and bio-diverse beauty comprising of small hills topped with bushy vegetation interposed by scattered giant trees, wide grasslands, and thick undergrowth along its main rivers, creating varied habitat that supports a wide range of flora and fauna. Among the most widespread vegetation species, several Acacia species and strikingly beautiful baobab trees contribute to the beauty of the reserve.
Among its key features, the reserve presents the confluence of the Tana and Thiba rivers next to the Kamburu and Masinga hydroelectric dams. The body of water not only offers wonderful scenery but also serves as a supplier of life for a large variety of animals. Some of the large mammals in this reserve include elephants, Rothschild giraffes, buffalo, and waterbuck. Other interesting species include zebras, impalas, lesser kudu, bushbucks, dik-diks, and Grant’s gazelles. Predators like the black-backed jackal and stealthy nocturnal animals like the genet cat and slender mongoose also thrive in this ecosystem. Small mammals in this ecosystem include cape hares, porcupines, and hyraxes. The rivers and dams are complete with hippos and crocodiles, part of thriving aquatic ecosystems.
Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the different bird species, while reptile enthusiasts will see some of the different residents that exist. Be it touring the rolling hills or looking at the wildlife along the water, Mwea National Reserve is a tranquil retreat into the great wilderness of Kenya. Its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and key ecological features make it an unmissable destination for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts.