Guide to Bisanandi National Reserve in Kenya

The Bisanandi National Reserve facilitates animal dispersal throughout multiple regions, including Meru National Park, and encompasses additional areas like Meru, Kora, and Mwingi, collectively forming the Bisanandi conservation area. The Bisanandi National Reserve, occasionally referred to as the Kinna National Reserve, encompasses 609 square kilometers and is administered by the Kenya Wildlife Society. The Reserve is bordered by Meru National Park and delineates the historical boundary between the Boran people and the Meru. It has existed since 1979.

What is the location of Bisanandi National Reserve?

Bisanandi National Reserve is located on the periphery of Meru National Park. The historical demarcation between the Meru and Boran tribes is referred to as the “Kinna” boundary, situated between Meru and Bisanadi Parks. The Bisanandi National Reserve was formed in September 1979 and spans 606 square kilometers. Access to the reserves in Kenya is restricted to 4WD vehicles due to the area’s pristine environment and lack of hotels.

The Bisanadi National Reserve is located in the Eastern Region. The Nairobi Safari Circuit, situated near Nairobi, encompasses the parks of Samburu, Shaba, and Buffalo Springs, interconnected by the Ewaso Nyiro River. Meru National Reserve, characterized by expansive savannahs, is situated adjacent to Bisanandi, Mwingi, Kora, and Rahole National Reserves and Parks, and is located further afield.

From a tourism standpoint, Bisanadi National Reserve is an unspoiled natural marvel located in the expansive arid wilderness of Isiola County in northern Kenya, adjacent to Meru National Park. The park consists of arid bushland inhabited by many creatures, including lions, African elephants, cheetahs, white rhinoceroses, and African buffaloes, along with over 400 avian species. During their excursion to the reserve, tourists can engage in boating and fishing on the Tana and Rojewero rivers, in addition to sleeping beneath the African night sky for a demanding and memorable overnight experience.

Attractions in Bisanadi National Reserve

Bisanadi National Reserve features diverse species, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, buffalo, white rhinoceros, elands, giraffes, hartebeests, and African elephants, which visitors may observe throughout their stay.

Bird species at Bisanadi National Reserve:

In addition to wild animals, the national reserve also showcases significant avian species that have drawn numerous tourists. The National Reserve, featuring over 400 species of birds, serves as a sanctuary for ornithologists. Among the observable species are kingfishers, Peter’s finfoot, brown-backed woodpecker, Huggins’ courser, malachite eagle, and numerous others.

Things to do at Bisanadi National Reserve?

Game drive safaris at Bisanadi National Reserve serve as a dispersal area for Meru National Park, Mwingi National Reserve, and Kori National Wildlife Reserve. African elephants, African buffalos, white rhinoceroses, elands, cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeests, impalas, and hartebeests are among the species observed while wildlife viewing at the park.

Boat ride safaris: This location provides guests the opportunity to embark on a boat trip down the Tana River, where they may observe many bird species, pristine animals, and lush flora, enhancing the safari experience.

Cultural excursions at Bisanadi National Reserve: Africa, as a continent, hosts a myriad of ethnic groupings and cultural ideologies. Following a whole day of game drive, guests may engage with the Meru and Boran tribes to gain insight into their lifestyles, enjoy performances by local dance troupes, and acquire magnificent handicrafts produced by the community as souvenirs. During your visit to the reserve, fishing in the Tana River, which hosts a diverse array of fish species, remains permissible. Tourists are advised to bring their own fishing gear when engaging in this activity.

Bird observation expeditions at Bisanadi National Reserve: The national reserve has around 400 avian species, rendering it an optimal safari destination in Kenya for ornithologists. The malachite eagle, Peter’s finfoot, brown-backed woodpecker, kingfisher, and Huggins coarser are among the species available for observation. The ideal periods for birdwatching for tourists are early morning and late evening. The optimal period for rewards occurs during the rainy season, spanning April to May and November to December, when migratory birds from Europe and North Africa converge in the park to breed, offering a unique experience.

Entry to Bisanadi National Reserve in Kenya

Bisanadi National Reserve can be accessed by air or road, with the Murera Gate in Meru National Park facilitating convenient entry. One can further reserve a domestic aircraft from Wilson Airport to Korbessa airstrip, located near Mount Meru National Park, where a safari driver will collect you and transport you back to the lodge.

Accommodations and lodges at Bisanadi National Reserve in Kenya

Unfortunately, the reserve does not provide any accommodation choices. Nonetheless, individuals are permitted to camp in the park. Alternatively, visitors may reside at establishments such as Leopard Rock Safari Lodge, Leopard Rock Lodge, and Rhino River Camp, among others, in the neighboring town of Meru.

What is the best time to visit Bisanadi National Reserve?

The Bisanadi National Reserve’s distant position allows for year-round visitation. The optimal months for engaging in the reserve’s activities are the dry periods from June to October and December to March. A safari to Bisanadi can be augmented with visits to additional places, like Masai Mara, Chania Waterfalls, and Amboseli, among others.