Mwingi National Reserve is one of four protected and contiguous areas that comprise the 4,400 square km Meru Conversational Area (MCA). The other three are Meru National Park, Bisanadi National Reserve and Kora National Park. Mwingi borders all three and is the least accessible. Mwingi has been designated a Wilderness Activity Zone by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) which allows for fly camping, camel and horseback safaris as opportunities for traditional game viewing are extremely limited. Formerly known as Kitui National Reserve and located in Kitui District, Mwingi covers 745 sq km and is little visited by tourists.
However, efforts are underway to improve the area’s road access. The reserve is administered by Mwingi County Council. Wildlife populations are low, but there are hippo, crocodile, buffalo and warthog. Areas of the reserve have been encroached by settlements and permanent agriculture.
Climatic conditions – The climate is hot and dry
Major Attraction – Wilderness habitat; game viewing; Adamson’s Falls; fishing and boating on Tana River; Kampi ya Simba – former home of Joy and George Adamson and the grave of Elsa the lioness.
Wildlife – Caracal, elephant, hippo, leopard, lion and several antelope species among others.
Access – Roads: The reserve can be accessed via Thika to Mwingi then north-east through Kyuso village, or from Meru National Park through Adamson’s Bridge via Kora National Park.
Accommodation – There is currently no accommodation in the reserve
Best time to visit – All year round
Activities – Game viewing, fishing in River Tana, bird watching, boating.