Mwea National Reserve – National Reserve in Embu

Mwea National Reserve is a small and peaceful protected area in Mbeere, Embu County, on the shores of the Kamburu and Masinga dams along the Tana River. It was gazetted in 1976 to conserve semi-arid bush habitat, and it has been managed jointly by the Kenya Wildlife Service and the local county since 1996.

The reserve's mix of thick bush, baobabs and open water supports elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, lesser kudu and hippos, as well as a strong list of more than 200 bird species, including water birds along the dams. Because it receives few visitors, it is a good place for unhurried game drives, birdwatching and camping away from crowds.

Mwea is about three hours' drive from Nairobi via Embu or Masinga. KWS runs public and special campsites in the reserve, and lodges near Masinga Dam provide more comfortable rooms. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is advised in the wet season. Gates open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Fees are on the KWS Mwea National Reserve page.