Small national parks and reserves in Africa. The main national parks and reserves of Africa Message about the national park reserve of Africa

Africa has the largest number national parks among all the continents of the planet. If you are interested in national parks, and you want to fully experience this magnificent type of tourism, recreation and knowledge of wildlife, then you definitely need to pack your backpacks for the “dark continent”. Just imagine: thousands and tens of thousands of different species of animals, insects, fish and birds are protected here. In Africa there are not only national parks, but also nature reserves, as well as natural objects. In this article we will highlight only the largest and most famous of the worthy ones. This will be an introductory article about natural complexes Africa, and about specific parks, read separate materials on our website.

National parks and reserves of Africa located in different climatic zones. Despite the fact that Africa has the reputation of being the hottest continent, there are even subarctic conditions here - on the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, for example, where the snow does not melt even in summer, and yet the mountain stands almost on the equator! On the continent there is tropical jungle with plenty of rain and dried deserts (Sahara, Kalahari), endless savannas along which zebras and antelopes rush, and soft subtropics ideal for human life.

Kilimanjaro stands out among other national parks and reserves in Africa in that it is located on the mountain of the same name - the highest point in Africa, and therefore can offer tourists the richest variety natural conditions. The mountain rises 5895 meters above sea level, and is the only place in Africa where you can freeze at any time of the year. Yes, freeze in Africa! It sounds crazy, but nevertheless it is true.

Kilimanjaro is an inactive volcano. A snow cap covers its top, and a riot of vegetation begins below it. The forests of Kilimanjaro are home to many species of animals and birds that are on the verge of extinction. The territory of Kilimanjaro consists of the national park itself with an area of ​​75,350 hectares, and the reserve that surrounds it and has an area of ​​107,830 hectares.

Kilimanjaro, due to its large altitude difference, has different vegetation zones. They are layered on top of each other like a pie. Savannas extend to a height of up to 1 - 1.6 km (depending on which slope we are talking about - northern or southern). Here you can enjoy foothill forests and no less picturesque subalpine swamps. From 1.3 km to 2.8 km the surface of the mountain is covered with beautiful mountain forests. The territory of Kilimanjaro National Park begins at an altitude of 2.7 km. Above there are meadows, and shortly before the peak there is real African tundra (Saddle plateau). The peak itself is covered with snow and glaciers, which so amazed foreign travelers in their time. In just a couple of days you are out of the sultry tropical Africa you find yourself in a rare, super exotic and unexpected snowy Africa. Don't forget to take gloves.

Distinctive features of Kilimanjaro:

• location on the slopes of the mountain, hence the richest variety of vegetation;
• the only snowy place in Africa;
• combination with mountaineering (climbing the highest point of the continent);
• rare endangered species of flora.

When a Russian-speaking person is asked what national parks and reserves in Africa he knows, after Kilimanjaro most people will name the Serengeti. This word seems to be unknown, but from somewhere far away it sounds like the rhythmic beating of drums and loud chants.

The Serengeti is located in Tanzania, and is almost the oldest national park in Africa. It is primarily known for its crazy migrations of wild animals. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, striped zebras and the predators running after them appear before the gaze of a stunned observer. Such greatness of nature is in full view in front of you.

Actually, the Serengeti Park itself was created around the territory where the Migration takes place (and it stretches, by the way, for more than 1000 km), and this is its distinctive feature.

Unlike Kilimanjro, Serengeti is a table-flat, treeless expanse, almost the complete opposite of the first park. The kingdom of savannas, interspersed with picturesque meadows among rocks protruding from the ground.

In addition, in the Serengeti, the confrontation between populations along the “predator-prey” line is exposed to the highest degree. It is here, under the most favorable and shocking conditions, that an outside observer can see all the peculiarities of one another's hunt.

• flat expanses;
• unparalleled migration;
• "predator-prey"

One of the most forested places in Africa. Located in the state of Uganda, and covers an area of ​​331 square meters. km. For comparison, there are several states in Europe that have a smaller area. Here, all these three hundred and thirty kilometers are covered with impenetrable jungle, in which a huge variety of animal species live. But, above all, this park is famous for mountain gorillas, of which 50% of the total number on the planet lives here (however, unfortunately, still a very small number). Bwindi is a real destination for butterfly lovers; there are many endemic species here.

• forests;
• gorillas;
• inaccessibility.

Kruger National Park

One of the largest national parks and reserves not only in Africa, but throughout the world. Its area is almost 19.5 thousand square kilometers! In addition, the Kruger Park is the oldest in South Africa, it has been operating since 1926. Remember the Limpopo River? She is here.

The main feature of the reserve is that it is the richest on the continent species diversity animals presented. This is facilitated by the division of the park into internal sections, each of which is home to its own set of species. If you want more comfort, then you need to focus on the southern part of the territory, it is better equipped. For lovers of pristine beauty, the north is suitable. In general, the park has a network of roads of excellent quality, and an entire infrastructure has been created for car travelers - parking lots, campsites, cafes. By the way, you can rent a car. Even getting to the Kruger Park is not difficult - there is an airport nearby.

• the richest species diversity of fauna;
• huge area;
• infrastructure for a comfortable visit.

One of the largest national parks in the world. The Tsavo Nature Reserve occupies an impressive area of ​​22 thousand square kilometers, and is noticeable even on the general map of Kenya, on whose territory it is located. The park is so huge that there is even a railway line running through its territory, which connects the capital region with the coast.

The railway divides the object into 2 territories - western and eastern, and each of them, in a certain sense, is considered independently. As in the case of the Kruger Park, there is a more civilized and infrastructure-rich part - the western one, and a wilder part - the eastern one.

In Tsavo, as in many national parks and reserves in Africa, a whole system of visitor services has been created. Comfortable hotels and guides working here on a permanent basis are at your service. If you wish, you can take part in an extensive excursion throughout Tsavo.

• huge territory;
• choice of holiday packages – from civilized to wild.

Small national parks and reserves in Africa

Of course, the word “small” here is quite arbitrary, since almost all African reserves are large objects with great tourist value.

Aberdare is a Kenyan mountain park nestled in the mountains of the same name. As a consequence of its geographical location, Aberdare offers tourists stunning landscapes and all the delights of a mountain landscape: elevation changes, waterfalls, rock outcrops, mountain forests of trees of unimaginable sizes, grassy meadows and, of course, tropical impenetrable jungle. 3 kilometers above sea level - for your pleasure.

The Volcanic National Park in Rwanda is an example of a classic, relatively small but extremely beautiful African national park. As its name suggests, it is located in a mountainous area with a history of volcanic activity, at an altitude of 2.5 to 4.5 km. Despite the fact that military and partisan actions have recently taken place here, the park has a well-developed tourist service - there is a place to live comfortably, and there is a choice of excursions.

Chobe is an elephant park in Botswana. This is one of the few natural parks Africa, which specializes in animal species, in this case elephants. Animal censuses show that there are...several tens of thousands of elephants here! And if you want to see most of them at the same time, then come to Chobe in May-September, and then you will see how these gentle giants gather in thousands at the watering hole.

Conclusion

National parks and reserves in Africa are a whole source of income for many countries, a real business, a source of pride. Tourists will be offered a developed infrastructure and many recreational opportunities. Therefore, if you plan to comfortably visit such objects, you need to prepare for them as for a real tour, each stage of which will have its own cost. Of course, by organizing your own trip and visiting wilder, undeveloped places in nature reserves, you can significantly reduce your costs.

Africa is a continent where you can enjoy greatness pristine nature. Man here has had only a limited influence on the world, and the desire to preserve and highlight own merits allowed many African countries to create the most beautiful natural objects and complexes that are of keen interest to the seeking nature.

Abstract on the topic:

Prepared by:

May Veronica

Minsk 2006

Masai Mara Game Reserve

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Samburu Game Reserve

The national park was created in 1962. It is located in central Kenya and covers an area of ​​105 square meters. km. Its territory is part of a lava plain that includes various landscapes, red soils, thorny bushes, eroded volcanic rocks, dried river beds and steep hills. In the south of Samburu flows the Brown River. Following its curve you can see palm trees, acacias and tamarind, which create a magical contrast with fresh greenery. The wild nature of the region beckons and attracts! The animal world is no less diverse than the plant world. Samburu is home to elephants, impalas, hyena dogs and other species. The river is home to crocodiles and hippos. Birds include storks, buffoon eagles, sacred ibis and marabou.

https://pandia.ru/text/77/509/images/image007_0.jpg" align="left" width="150" height="100 src=">The Aberdare mountain range runs parallel to the Mount Kenya mountain range. The length of the mountain the chain is 70 km long and extends far beyond the boundaries of the park. Average height 3000m, with the exception of a small strip where the two famous and most visited hotels by tourists, Treetops and The Ark, are located, from the observation deck of which you can watch the animals. Fauna: buffalo, rhinoceroses, eland, elephants, monkeys, leopards, forest pigs, warthogs.

Humidity" href="/text/category/vlazhnostmz/" rel="bookmark">humid and the vegetation is very dense, making it impossible to travel even with an SUV. Aberdare is a fabulous land, striking in its splendor and beauty.

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https://pandia.ru/text/77/509/images/image011.jpg" align="left" width="150" height="100 src=">Mount Kenya is the second highest, after Kilimanjaro in Tanzania , an African peak, with the Batian Peak (5199 m). It is located in the center of the country, slightly below the equator. There are 11 glaciers on its snow-capped mountain peaks. Here, among the eternal snows and alpine meadows Many rivers flow through it, including the Tana River, which is the largest river in Kenya. Thanks to fertile soils Intensive farming is carried out up to an altitude of 2000 meters. Then begins the cedar forest, in which olive trees, ferns, vines and mosses grow.

https://pandia.ru/text/77/509/images/image013.jpg" align="left" width="150" height="100 src=">The largest national park in East Africa. The entire area is divided into two parts by the road between Nairobi and Mombasa: Tsavo West and Tsavo East, adjoining them is the Taita Hills private game reserve. East Tsavo is larger than West Tsavo and drier, so it is less visited. The Tsavo and Athi rivers flow through the park. In the northern part of West Tsavo there are many lakes with crystal clear water, which are fed by the underground spring Mzima. Palm trees, tamarind trees and reeds grow around the lakes. Concentrated here animal world: elephants, lions, hyenas, leopards, steppe lynx, kudu, gerenuk, oryx. Crocodiles and hippos live in the lakes. Vegetation of the park: giant baobabs, acacias with garlands of pink and white flowers, desert rose, pink fuchsia. Taita Hills Game Reserve offers one- and two-day safaris from Mombasa.

Poaching" href="/text/category/brakonmzer/" rel="bookmark">poaching reduced their number to 5000. At the same time, the population also decreased white rhinoceros, from 7,000 in 1969, to 100 in 1981. But thanks to the measures taken today, poaching has largely reduced its scale. West Tsavo covers an area of ​​9 thousand square meters. km. Its magnificent landscapes combine Rocky Mountains, hills, plains and lakes, on the banks of which reeds and tamarind trees grow. The national park includes the Ngulia mountain range, the plain and the Idawe volcanic upland, created by the Great African Rift, Mount Kilimanjaro and Kenya. There are many lakes with crystal clear water in the northern part of West Tsavo.

They are fed by the underground spring Mzima Springs, which supplies drinking water to the city of Mombasa. The territory of East Tsavo occupies 11 thousand square meters. km. Unlike the West, its landscapes are represented by bush thickets, arid plains, deserts and river systems. Oases grow along the Athi, Tiwa, Tsavo and Voi rivers. These rivers are the main source of moisture in the area. The Galana River flows in the south. Most of East Tsavo is occupied by the Yatta highland plain - the world's largest frozen lava flow, stretching 300 km in length. The fauna of Tsavo is diverse. Some species can sometimes be difficult to see due to tall grass, brush and the large size of the area itself. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, steppe lynx, gerenuk, leopard and other species live here.

Sources.

Hello to all readers of the blog site! Today I have prepared for you a lot of interesting information about the creation of nature reserves in Africa, a little about this incredible beauty of nature, about all sorts of animals living there, etc. Enjoy...

Due to man's irresponsible attitude towards nature, many species of the once richest flora and fauna of the African continent have irrevocably disappeared from the face of the planet. National parks and reserves are being created on the “dark continent” to prevent such devastation of nature.

National parks of Africa.

Almost 4% (about 1,170,880 sq. km) of the entire African territory was taken under protection by 1990. Pongola, the first African nature reserve, was established back in 1894 in South Africa, although most of the current protected areas have appeared relatively recently.

862,940 sq. km of continental territory, according to International Union nature conservation and natural resources(MSPR), is under full protection, and excludes the conduct of any mining and forestry work.

These areas contain national parks (where visitors are allowed only subject to minimal changes to the landscape), natural monuments, nature reserves and other attractions.

Partial protection applies to the remaining 307,940 sq. km, this means that in these territories the land can be used for resort and tourism infrastructure and for some types of mining operations.

There are many protected areas throughout Africa, but in the south and east of the continent there are the most picturesque and extensive reserves, and UNESCO has classified some of them as world natural and cultural heritage.

World Heritage of Humanity.

601 protected area with an area of ​​over 1000 hectares, it is found in Africa. International Committee world heritage, 26 of them are classified as official List of World Cultural and natural heritage humanity.

The objects included in this List are "outstanding value global significance» due to their cultural and historical importance, natural features, or a combination of all these factors.

Objects World Heritage in the early 80s last century, were declared together with the adjacent conservation area in central and northern Tanzania.

In the southeast of Algeria, Tassili-Ajjer, with its combination of cultural monuments and unique natural conditions, is another site on the World Heritage List. This sandstone plateau, due to erosion of the rock, dotted with intricate patterns, is known for its unique geological formations.

Scientists have discovered examples of rock art on these formations that are perfectly preserved. The age of the drawings is approximately determined at 10 thousand years; the climate of the Sahara at that time was quite rainy, and lush grasses grew in what is now the desert.

North Africa.

In most countries North Africa Until the 60s of the 20th century, there were almost no protected areas. In 1884, only in Tunisia appeared civil service forestry, and subsequently restrictions on hunting were introduced. And in Algeria, the first North American national park was approved in 1923.

Today, to protect certain species of animals, national parks have been created in North Africa. For example, in the Taza National Park - Barbary macaques, in the Toubkal Park, in the middle of the High Atlas ridge in Morocco - representatives of mountain fauna, in the Tenere and Aire natural reserves in Nigeria - oryx and rare mendes antelopes.

Several nature reserves have also been created in the coastal areas of this region. For example, on the coast of Mauritania, Ban d'Arguin is a wetland where millions of birds spend the winter. The rare Berber deer and caracals are found in the same wetland in Algeria's El Kala National Park.

Deforestation, combined with overgrazing and drought in the depleted grasslands of the Sahel plain, have taken a huge toll on wild North Africa. This effect was also aggravated by wars, including in Algeria, where chemical defoliants were actively used during the fighting for independence of 1952 - 1962. Awareness of the need for environmental protection is growing along with the importance of tourism for the development of these countries.

West and Central Africa.

In one of the most densely populated regions, West Africa, demographic growth has led to the disappearance of a significant part of the rain forests and savannas that once existed there, and consequently of many biological species.

Over 100 years, up to 90% of the forests in Guinea, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire have been cleared due to logging. Even in the forests of the Taï National Park in Côte d'Ivoire, poaching, gold exploration and timber logging continue unabated. Ecologists in a number of countries are actively searching for optimal methods of environmental protection that would be consistent with the needs of the population, often living in poverty.

In 1979, a campaign was organized within the framework of the project "Mountain Gorilla", the goal of which was to develop a caring attitude towards nature among the local population. One of the most densely populated countries is Rwanda.

A 1980 study in Rwanda found that areas Volcanoes National Park, the habitats of unique gorillas - more than half of Rwandan farmers are not averse to using them to create farms there.

Almost all the villages were visited by environmentalists, convincing local residents of the need to save gorillas, in particular, pointing out the importance of these animals for the development of one of the main sources of employment in the country - tourism.

The same survey in 1984 showed that the number of people wishing to use park lands for agricultural needs had already decreased to 18%. The gorilla population began to increase towards the end of the 80s, but in the 90s. mass migration of residents and war reduced all previous efforts to zero.

East Africa.

It is quite difficult to protect and manage forest reserves, and not everyone gets to see animals there. Therefore, in Africa, the most popular reserves are in the savannah - a tropical steppe with rare individual trees.

Both predatory (leopards, lions, cheetahs) and herbivorous (rhinoceros, antelopes, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, etc.) wild animals are found in the savannah of East Africa.

Savannah-dwelling jackals, wild dogs and hyenas feed on carrion. Crowds of tourists are of course attracted by this diversity of fauna. In Kenya in 1990, tourism income was US$467 million, more than the combined volume of the country's two main exports - tea and coffee.

IUCN in 1990 compiled a list of 36 protected areas in Kenya, including 3 national parks of historical and archaeological significance, 3 marine national parks and 16 major national reserves, reserves and parks.

Tsavo Park, located along the Nairobi-Mombasa road, is the largest national park. This park is famous for its unique population of elephants; the area of ​​Tsavo Park is 20,807 square meters. km.

Nairobi National Park is located only 6 km from the capital of Kenya, the park area is only 114 square meters. km., but despite its size, on its territory the park accommodates an amazing variety of animal species, including lions, leopards and cheetahs and natural environments.

Tourism in Tanzania is not as developed as in Kenya, however, the potential of nature reserves and game reserves in this country is truly enormous. There are 6 major national parks in Tanzania (in addition to the Ngorongoro Crater and the famous Serengeti) and several game reserves, which may well be awarded the status of national parks in the near future.

Serengeti is a national park in northern Tanzania, one of the largest parks in the world. It is located at a distance of 320 km from Arusha, at an altitude of 910 m to 1820 m above sea level, its area is 1.3 million hectares. "Serengeti" means "endless plains" in the Maasai language.

The Serengeti is the first of all African reserves in terms of the total number of animals and the number of species that inhabit it. More than 1.5 million large mammals, mainly ungulates, live within the reserve.

About 35 different types Animals can be seen here, including the "big five" - ​​leopards and lions, elephants, hippos and buffalos. Other animals include rhinoceroses, giraffes, zebras, Thomson and Grant's gazelles, wildebeest, cheetahs, hyenas, crocodiles, baboons and other monkeys, as well as more than 500 species of birds - jabiru stork, flamingos and others.

- an extinct shield volcano, up to 2338 m high, located near western edge Rift Zones, in northern Tanzania, on the border with Kenya. Steep cliffs of the crater walls border on spacious valleys covered with bushes and grass.

The reserve, spread around the Ngorongoro Crater, covers an area of ​​about 800 thousand hectares, after it received the official status of an International Conservation Zone and Biosphere Reserve, its importance has increased.

This area was once part of the national Serengeti park, but as a reserve it performs two main tasks - preserving the natural resources of the region, as well as protecting the interests and traditional way of life of the Maasai tribe, which grazes large herds here cattle, goats and sheep.

The center of the reserve is the Ngorongoro Caldera, one of the largest calderas in the world. Its total area is 264 km2, depth – 970 to 1800 m, length 22 km. Two destroyed craters are located in the southwestern part, one of these craters is filled by Lake Magadi Ngorongoro.

Many different herbivores feed the savannah, especially during the dry season, when there is enough food for more than 2 million herbivores of various sizes. Like a catalog of African fauna, here begins the list of animals: zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, Thomson and Grant's gazelles, giraffe, eland and warthog, two-horned rhinoceros, elephant.

Most of these animals roam the vast Serengeti, while others, such as the hippopotamus, live near swamps and. Where there is plenty of prey, there are also predators; Ngorongoro Reserve supports spotted hyena, lion, jackal, leopard, cheetah and serval populations.

Uganda has some wonderful parks, but in the 70s and 80s. last century, during civil wars, they suffered enormous damage, and the desperate population, in order not to die of hunger, shot many animals.

South Africa.

The list of the most unique protected regions in the world includes the continental part of South Africa. About 7% of the territory is under state protection, although in the 80s - 90s. During the civil wars in Mozambique and Angola, this did not go unnoticed for wildlife.

Botswana has the largest concentration of parks and game reserves, with 17% of the country's land area being protected. Back in the 90s. XX in the environmental movement originated in Africa. Of the 43 government protected areas by 1929, 27 were in South Africa.

The most famous national park in this region has its origins from the Sabi and Shingwedzi reserves. The merger of these reserves occurred with the adoption of the National Parks Act in 1926, in what was then the Transvaal, a province in the northeast of the region.

Occupying an area of ​​19,485 sq. km, the Kruger Park on its territory shelters a huge number of animals taking advantage of the diversity of natural environments. Such rare species of animals as white rhinoceroses are found in this park.

In South Africa, according to the IUCN, in 1990 there were 178 conservation areas with a total area of ​​63 100 km2. km, this is 5.2% of the total area of ​​the country. In addition to the Kruger Park, the picturesque Golden Gate Highlands, the Kalahari Jemsbok, through which the migration routes of a huge number of antelopes pass, and the Addo Elephant National Park near Port Elizabeth are famous.

Zimbabwe and Madagascar.

Marvelous picturesque park Victoria Falls and the neighboring Zambezi National Park are located in Zimbabwe. - one of the most remarkable nature reserves in the world, inhabited by rare animals, is located in the north-west of the country. The Zimbabwe Grand National Monument and Park is of extraordinary historical interest.

The island of Madagascar in eastern Africa is striking in the number of living animals. It is the island nature of the state that determines the uniqueness of this biodiversity.

Madagascar fauna and flora have evolved and been enriched with new species over many millennia. But for environment The destructive impact of civilization has not passed by - 45 species and subspecies of the rarest lemurs are under threat of extinction, and almost 4/5 of the forests have been cut down.

The country does not have sufficient resources to monitor compliance with environmental legislation, even despite the creation in 1927 of nature reserves.

Forecast.

Quite a lot serious problems faces environmentalists in Africa, caused by the growth of the countries' agro-industrial potential and demographic factors. But there are still reasons for optimism.

It can be expected, especially in countries dependent on tourism, that the area of ​​protected areas will still expand. It is also encouraging that awareness of the benefits of environmental protection is increasing among the African population, with community-based environmental organizations being established everywhere.

Creation biosphere reserves is a reflection modern trend environmental activities. In these reserves, the central area is fully protected; it is surrounded by a buffer zone and then by an external territory; industrial exploitation and tourist visits are allowed.

Modern technologies play an important role. Radio tracking devices record the migrations of animals, and any changes in the nature of vegetation are noted by satellite devices. Large animals, if necessary, are immobilized and transferred to a safe place, and rare species are allowed to breed in captivity, then released into their usual habitat.

And yet it seems to me that this is a fairy tale... It’s so tempting and beautiful there, lakes, volcanoes, pink flamingos... Oh... I JUST WANT TO GO THERE!!!

“In Africa there are sharks, in Africa there are gorillas, in Africa there are big angry crocodiles...” - it is difficult to forget that mixture of childhood curiosity and fear associated with this mysterious, and therefore alluring, distant land. Even as adults, we experience an interest that has remained in our minds since childhood: what kind of continent is this with its outlandish exotic beauties?

Unfortunately, Africa's evergreen rainforests, silent deserts, arrogant mountains, thundering waterfalls, grassy savannas and their inhabitants have become in need of protection. It's not just governments who understand this. African countries, but also many people who come from all over the world to volunteer, which the reserves and national parks of Africa accept with gratitude. Their enthusiasm and selfless work made it possible to preserve many species of plants and animals.

The first state structure for nature conservation in Africa was created in Tunisia in 1884, and only 40 years later the first national park, Taza, was founded here. Currently, there are more than 600 national parks, natural monuments and reserves protected by states on the continent, and 26 of them are included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List. It is prohibited not only to hunt there, but also to carry out any work related to changing the landscape. The remaining areas are partially protected; resort and tourism activities are allowed on them. Basically, protected areas lie in the eastern and southern parts of the continent. The largest number of reserves is located in Kenya, a country in eastern Africa.

On a huge territory of more than 20 thousand square meters. km, occupying 4% of the total area of ​​Kenya, one of the largest national parks in Africa, Tsavo, was founded in 1948. A railway line runs through its territory, connecting the capital Nairobi with the popular seaside resort Mombasa.

The road divides the park into two zones - western and eastern.

The western part is more suitable for civilized recreation. There are luxury hotels here, many of which have their own runway. The eastern part, although drier, is no less interesting for tourists.

Visitors to the park are accompanied by rangers, who with pleasure and pride introduce vacationers to the Yatta Highlands, Mzima Springs, Ngulia Mountains, the Tsavo and Galana Rivers, the Idawe Hills and other natural attractions.

Particularly impressive is the Yatta Highlands, which was formed during the eruption of the Ol Doinio Sabuk volcano and is a 300-kilometer flow of solidified lava.

Another place that is definitely worth a visit is the Mzima springs, which release more than 500 million liters of water from the bowels of the earth every day.

This area is famous for its dense vegetation and exotic animals, whose life can be observed through the huge transparent wall of the underwater observatory that hosts tourists.

The flora of this vast territory is diverse. Thorn bushes grow in the savannas, and palm trees, baobabs, tamarind trees, acacias, reeds and many other plants grow along the river banks. The park is famous for its fauna. More than 60 species of animals live here: elephants, buffalos, antelopes, giraffes, rhinoceroses, lions and cheetahs. Along the banks of the rivers there are hippos and crocodiles.

Tsavo National Park is very popular among tourists; more than 250 thousand people visit it annually.

Another Kenyan national park, also very popular among tourists, is Aberdare, located on the territory of the mountain range with the same name.

Aberdare is proud of its picturesque landscapes: forests giant trees, crystal clear waterfalls on icy rivers, wastelands overgrown with heather, bamboo jungle - you can admire all this forever. This park is listed by UNESCO.

The significant altitude above sea level (about 3000 meters) affected the flora and fauna of Aberdare. The impenetrable forests are home to elephants, monkeys, rhinoceroses, buffalos, leopards and many other animals. Visiting the park is limited to a small lowland on which two hotels are located.

From their observation platforms, curious tourists can observe the life of animals and enjoy the beauty of wild nature, revealed in all its splendor.

The highest single peak in the world that tourists can walk along is Mount Kilimanjaro; one of its three peaks, Kibo, rises 5895 m above sea level.

The other two are called Shira and Mawenzi. The foot of the mountain is also located quite high - at an altitude of 1830 meters. This is a dormant but not extinct volcano, which sometimes makes threatening sounds and ejects a cloud of gases through the crater.

The beauty of the surrounding nature of Kilimanjaro National Park is complemented by a wealth of wildlife. Here you can find: elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, lions, as well as several species of monkeys. The world of birds and insects is so diverse that it has always attracted researchers and biologists here.

The small Central African country of Rwanda is famous for its natural attraction, the Volcanic National Park, which occupies a relatively small area of ​​130 square meters. km. It was here that the Hollywood film “Gorillas in the Mist”, released in 1988, was filmed.

The park is located at an altitude of 2400-4500 m above sea level, it is a unique place where very rare species live apes– mountain black gorillas.

There are only about 650 of them all over the globe, half of them live here.

The territory of the park borders the country of Zaire, with which a guerrilla war has been waged for several years. Mines are occasionally found in the park, which do not particularly frighten tourists, but cause irreparable harm to the monkeys.

Tourism here is organized quite well, there are hotels, and excursions are organized. For example, during the dry season, vacationers are offered a hike to the extinct volcanoes of a sprawling mountain range, from where they can admire all the splendor of the surrounding nature.

In the southwestern part of the country of Uganda, on an area of ​​330 square meters. km stretches the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, declared a national park in 1991. Tourist visits are very strict here; monkeys can only be observed if accompanied by a guide in groups of up to 6 people.

Despite the strict limits, the reserve is very popular, because these are real African wild jungle, which not only look mysterious and impenetrable, but actually are so.

An excursion through the jungle can give you a unique experience. Walking along barely visible paths amid the silence of tall trees and under the supervision of lurking animals is not for the faint of heart.

An excellent example of excellent wildlife management is the Kruger National Park in South Africa. Looking at the magnificent nature, it is difficult to imagine how many hardships this land has endured. The Anglo-Boer Wars, plague epidemics, poaching that exterminated all living things - in addition to these misfortunes, the territory of the park was chosen as a refuge by escaped convicts, prisoners and criminals hiding from the law.

In 1900, President Paul Kruger convinced the Tranvaal Parliament to declare this territory protected by the state, hunting was banned here, and a few years later, all residents were evicted from here. The park is a living memorial to Kruger and his associates.

All this is already a thing of the past, and today the protected area is almost 20 thousand square meters. km annually receives more than a million tourists, who are attracted not only rich nature, but also history. Many traces of ancient settlements have been found on the territory of the Kruger Park; there are unique rock paintings dating back to the Stone Age.

The Kruger National Park includes as many as six unique ecosystems. This:

• Lebombo acacia bushveld;

• sandy baobab veld;

• mapane bush;
• mixed acacia forest;
• red willow forests;
• forests of river valleys.

At first glance, Kruger National Park can be considered a lost world.

This illusion is violated only by comfortable guest houses equipped with all the amenities of civilization, which are called lodges here. Accommodation in them, as well as the services of rangers and safari guides, are quite expensive. How could it be otherwise in a national park that generates the largest income among all the reserves in the world?

Africa is a unique, incredibly beautiful continent, which no other corner of the planet can compare with. We want to tell you about what national parks and reserves there are in Africa, where the main heritage of the continent in the field of flora and fauna is concentrated and preserved.

Main national parks and reserves

Consider the features, attractions and location large reserves and national parks of Africa.

Kruger and Bwindi National Parks in Africa

The oldest natural Park V Republic of South Africa and one of the largest nature reserves in Africa.
Bears the name S. J. P. Kruger- the country's president from 1880 to 1900, who first put forward the idea of ​​​​creating a reservation to protect wildlife and limit hunting. Later, in 1926, the country's first national natural park was created on the site of the reserve.
The park is known for its historical artifacts - on its territory they found traces of an ancient species of people - Homo erectus - dating back 500 years, the remains of dwellings, and more than 100 places with rock paintings.
The Kruger Park is home to 150 species of wild animals, the largest concentration on the continent. There are also about 420 species of birds in the park.
The type of vegetation here is more typical of a savannah with little forest cover.
The Kruger Nature Reserve includes several small private parks, such as. Its specialty is a professionally organized safari. Here everything happens calmly and measuredly, there is no large flow of tourists. Service - on high level. The only negative is the rather high price.

Bwindi National Park in a forested mountainous area in southwestern Uganda with an area of ​​330 sq. km near the border with Congo. The terrain of the park is mountainous, in some places flat, there are several small rivers.
Basically, the territory of Bwindi is a difficult jungle.
The climate here is typical of the jungle - distinctly tropical.
The biological system of the park is rich in the diversity of inhabitants living here:

• animals - about 150 species;
• birds – 350 species;
• butterflies - about 200 species.

Bwindi's main living attraction is the mountain gorillas; almost half of the entire earth's population of this animal species lives here.
The local flora is also interesting - more than 200 species of plants. There are about 100 varieties of ferns alone.

Rwenzori and Virunga National Parks in Africa

Rwenzori is a nature reserve located in the mountain range of the same name in Uganda.
In Rwenzori there are:

• one of the highest mountain peaks of the continent - Margherita - 5100 m high;
• several lakes and waterfalls;
• glaciers on mountain tops.

The most famous and largest river in Africa - the Nile.
The park is rich in magnificent rich vegetation.
Among the animals in the reserve there are quite a few rare species, for example, some species of primates.
Gorilla watching excursions are popular.

Virunga National Park(until 1962 - Albert Park) is located in the highlands of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Africa near the border with Uganda. The area of ​​the reserve is about 8000 square meters. km.
The nature reserve in these places was created in 1925 - during the period of colonization of the DR Congo by Belgium (1908-1960) - and was originally named after the Belgian King Albert I.
The territory of the park can be divided into three geographical parts:

• northern, where the Rwenzori mountain range is located;
• central with flat terrain and Lake Edward;
• the southern one is the Virunga mountain complex itself with several volcanoes, including active ones.

The nature in all parts of the park is very diverse, with unique landscapes, rich wildlife and flora. Many species of birds (more than 700) live here permanently or come for the winter.
The main inhabitants of Virunga Park are considered to be mountain gorillas, which mainly live on the slopes of the mountains.

Garamba and Salonga National Parks in Africa

Garamba Nature Reserve located in the northeastern part of the DR Congo near the border with Sudan.
The park area is 4.5 thousand square meters. km is occupied by savannas, tropical forests and meadows.
Garamba is famous for its northern white rhinoceros, a subspecies of rhinoceros that almost disappeared in the 1980s and is now considered close to extinction.
The reserve also boasts a large colony of elephants and giraffes.

Salonga. Another of the DR Congo’s natural reserves is located in the Congo River basin, and tourists can only get to the park by water.
The park was created to protect the rainforest.
The diversity of fauna and birds here is not as great as in other reserves, but it is quite interesting in its composition. Here you can find:

• bonobo primates, living only in these places;
• African gray parrot (Jaco) and Zairean peacocks;
• narrow-snouted African crocodile.

Kameya National Park and Nyasa Nature Reserve

Kameya National Park in Angola, which has been such since 1957.
The area of ​​the park is relatively small - 1500 square meters. m. This is a predominantly flat area, with small forests and thickets of bushes and reeds.
Several rivers flow through the reserve, which affected the structure of the parks' relief, and also periodically flood its territory. There are also lakes in the reserve, one of which, Dilolu, is the largest in Angola.
Such saturation of reservoirs predetermined the saturation in the adjacent territories large quantity aquatic bird species.
Of the mammals in the Kameoya Park, the most common species of antelope are found.

Nyasa - nature reserve, including the lake of the same name and the surrounding area. It is located on a plateau at an altitude of about 1400 m above sea level.
Lake Nyasa was formed as a result of the filling of a huge depression (depth - more than 700 m) between the states of Tanzania, Mozambique and Malawi with water. Its total length is 590 km.
The coastal terrain is varied: from plains and beaches to mountains descending directly into the water of the lake.
A dozen local rivers flow into the lake, feeding it with fresh water.
The waters of this huge lake are home to a large number of fish species - about 1000, as well as crocodiles.
On the Mozambican part of the lake coast near the border with Tanzania there is a reserve containing more than 400 species of birds, with a traditionally developed population of animals.
Tourism in the Nyasa Nature Reserve is most developed from Mozambique and Malawi, where you can have an interesting time staying on one of the islands.

Kilimanjaro National Park in Africa

The reserve is located in the northern part of Tanzania and is famous for the highest point in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro (5895 m), located on its territory.
Kilimanjaro is the first and main attraction of the park. Many come here precisely to climb one of the three peaks along the routes developed for this. Climbing some of them is relatively simple, the only difficulty is the acclimatization process, because to get to the top you need to cross several climatic zones.
It is better to plan ascents at any time of the year except for the rainy season (October-November, March-April).
Climbing the mountain, tourists can see:

• a unique attraction - snowy peak mountains and glacier in the middle of Africa;
• the stunning sight of an extinct volcano crater;
• several beautiful mountain lakes;
• a mountain plateau connecting two mountain peaks.

The vegetation of the park is very rich and varied, as it changes along with the change in climatic zones when climbing to the top.
At the base of the mountains there are picturesque tropical forests and savanna; several interesting hiking routes have been developed here for tourists.

Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Parks

Southeast of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is another famous national reserves of Africa - Serengeti. By the way, Tanzania is the country where the most nature reserves are located in Africa.
The area is more than 15 thousand square meters. km, it is the largest in the country.
The ecosystem of this reserve has been least affected by human activity.
The huge plateau on which the park is located is home to many species of animals and birds. It is very interesting to watch them, for example, during a safari.
Particularly impressive are the spectacles of animal migration during periods of drought, when endless lines of living creatures move, passing through total thousands of kilometers.

Central attraction Ngorongoro Nature Reserve in Tanzania, formerly part of the Serengeti Park, is considered to be an extinct, destroyed crater of an ancient volcano.
Its dimensions are amazing:

• diameter – more than 20 km;
• depth – 610 m;
• total area – 270 sq. km.

It is interesting that the crater has its own unique biosystem - many species of animals living here have never been outside its boundaries. The total number of animals inhabiting the crater exceeds 25 thousand.
Inside the crater there is an unusual Lake Magadi - salty, formed by hot springs.
There are several people living on the lake interesting species birds including flamingos, herons and pelicans.
On the slope near the crater there is the grave of German zoologists Bernhard and Mikael Grzimek, who made a huge contribution to the research, conservation and popularization of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro parks.

Rungwa Game Reserve, Maasai Mara and Selous

Rungwa- another of the national parks of Africa in Tanzania, the second in area.
The beds of several rivers stretch across the park, the largest of which is the Ruaha, with whirlpools and picturesque backwaters. Some of the rivers are very dry.
This abundance of water bodies predetermined the diversity of flora and fauna living in Rungwa.
It should be noted that these places are difficult to navigate, which made it possible to preserve the biological system of the reserve almost untouched. Walking is allowed in certain parts of the park.

Selous Nature Reserve. The largest conservation reserve in Tanzania and on the continent, its area is approximately 45,000 square meters. km, named after the British traveler and explorer F. C. Selous.

1. The Rufiji River flows through the entire territory of the park.
2. The park is home to more than 2,000 species of plants and trees, and large tracts of mangrove forests.
3. The variety of birds is more than 400 species.
4. The animals living in the park are typical representatives African savannah, although Selous is home to record populations of buffalo, elephant and hippopotamus.
5. Hunting safaris are held in the southern half of the park.

Masai Mara National Park located in Kenya, in its southwestern part.
The park has become a natural extension of the nearby Serengeti nature reserve.
The Masai Mara takes its name from the Maasai people, whose tribes historically settled in this area, near the Mara River. The park is a savanna overgrown with grass and shrubs, swampy in places, with occasional acacia groves.
Like the Serengeti, the Masai Mara is famous for the spectacular migrations of its many species of animals.
There is a colossally large population of wildebeest - more than a million animals - as well as lions and leopards.
Hippopotamuses and crocodiles are often found in local rivers.
The eastern sector of the reserve is more popular among tourists, which is geographically located closer to the capital of the country - Nairobi (220 km).

Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks in Africa

Tsavo - a park in Kenya, one of the world's largest natural parks (area - 20,000 sq. km).
The landscape of the park is predominantly savannah, covered with shrubs, and swampy in places.
Several rivers flow through the territory, the largest is Galana; sometimes there are lakes, springs gushing out of the ground and small waterfalls.
The park is famous for its diverse fauna, as well as an abundance of birds, and quite rare animals can be found here.
In terms of tourism, the eastern part of the Tsavo Nature Reserve is the most developed, with a tourist center in the town of Voi.
In the western part of the park, tourists flock to the village of Mtitto Andey.

Amboseli Park is located in southeastern Kenya near the border with Tanzania. Relatively small in area - 400 sq. km.
From the territory of this reserve, the snow-white peak of Kilimanjaro and its picturesque surroundings are clearly visible. Amboseli is known for its large elephant population - about 900 animals, and is even called the “land of elephants”.
Tourists are allowed to hike in Amboseli, provided they are accompanied by an armed guide.

Etosha (video) and Kafue National Parks

A large (more than 22,000 sq. km) reserve in Namibia, located near the northern edge of the Kalahari Desert, one of the largest national parks in South Africa.
Part of the territory of Etosha Park is occupied by the salt plateau of the same name.
Etosha Park serves as a habitat for many species of living creatures - mammals and birds, among which quite rare ones, such as rhinoceroses, can be found.

The fauna of the desert is extremely diverse. Especially if we're talking about about Namibia. Among the inhabitants of the Namib Desert are a variety of antelopes (springbok, oryx, kudu, dig-dig and others), huge desert elephants, giraffes, zebras, leopards, lions, etc. Enjoy watching!

Kafue- the largest nature reserve in Zambia. Named after one of the rivers flowing through its territory. Kafue is the largest of Zambia's rivers; along its course there are rapids, whirlpools and even small waterfalls.

Another attraction of the park is the Itezhe-Tezhe Dam, which blocks the Kafue River and was built to collect reservoir water and power the local power plant.
I would like to note that almost all of the listed national parks are included in the UNESCO list of natural monuments - World Heritage Sites. Unfortunately, the situation around some large reserves in Africa (for example, Virunga or Cameo) is quite complex due to conflicts and military operations that periodically arise on their territory or in the vicinity, as well as due to harmful human economic activities. Maybe we need to stop and stop making nature hostage to human greed and irresponsibility? What do you think?