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Kouroufing National Park
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Kouroufing Overview

Kouroufing National Park, known locally as “Parc National de Kouroufing,” is a protected area in southwestern Mali, established on January 16, 2002. Spanning approximately 557 square kilometers, the park is an integral component of the Bafing Biosphere Reserve, which also includes Bafing and Wongo National Parks. This biosphere reserve is dedicated to the conservation of the critically endangered Western chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes verus) and the preservation of the region’s unique ecosystems.

The park’s landscape is characterized by a mix of savannas, woodlands, and riverine environments, with the Bafing River—a significant tributary of the Senegal River—flowing through the area. To the north of Kouroufing lies Lake Manantali, an artificial reservoir created by the Manantali Dam, which further enriches the region’s biodiversity. While the park does not feature prominent mountains or waterfalls, its varied terrain provides a diverse array of habitats for numerous species.

Kouroufing National Park is renowned for its efforts to protect the Western chimpanzee, offering a sanctuary for one of the last viable populations of this subspecies in Mali. In addition to chimpanzees, the park supports various fauna, including antelopes, warthogs, and numerous bird species. The presence of the Western Derby’s eland, a large antelope species, highlights the park’s ecological significance.

The establishment of Kouroufing National Park was a strategic move to safeguard the region’s unique flora and fauna. As part of the Bafing Biosphere Reserve, the park benefits from collaborative conservation efforts aimed at habitat preservation and species protection. These initiatives are crucial in mitigating threats such as poaching and habitat degradation, ensuring the long-term viability of the park’s ecosystems.

Visitors to Kouroufing National Park can engage in activities like wildlife observation and guided tours that offer insights into the park’s natural heritage. The presence of the Bafing River and proximity to Lake Manantali provide opportunities for eco-tourism, including bird watching and exploring the diverse landscapes. However, access to the park requires careful planning, and visitors are encouraged to coordinate with local authorities to ensure a safe and enriching experience.

In summary, Kouroufing National Park plays a pivotal role in Mali’s conservation landscape. Its dedication to protecting endangered species, particularly the Western chimpanzee, and its integration into the broader Bafing Biosphere Reserve highlight its importance. Through ongoing conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices, Kouroufing National Park continues to preserve its natural treasures for future generations.

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Park Map
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Kouroufing National Park Highlights

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Kouroufing National Park, nestled within the vibrant landscapes of West Africa, is a vital refuge for a remarkable array of wildlife that thrives across its diverse ecosystems.

West African Lion
This majestic predator, a keystone species in the park, prowls the savanna in search of prey, embodying power and grace.

African Leopard
Elusive and stealthy, the leopard is a skilled hunter that utilizes the park’s dense vegetation for cover.

Spotted Hyena
Known for their haunting calls and remarkable endurance, these scavengers play a critical role in the park’s food chain.

Roan Antelope
Distinguished by its robust build and striking horns, this antelope is a prominent grazer in the park’s grasslands.

Bushbuck
A shy and solitary antelope, the bushbuck relies on dense undergrowth for shelter and foraging.

Honey Badger
Renowned for its fearlessness, this small carnivore scours the park for food, often digging into termite mounds.

Patas Monkey
This ground-dwelling primate, recognizable by its reddish fur, is among the fastest-moving monkeys in the world.

Warthog
With their distinctive tusks and stout build, warthogs forage in the open areas, contributing to seed dispersal.

African Civet
A nocturnal carnivore with a striking black-and-white pattern, the civet is often seen near water sources in the park.

Nile Crocodile
A dominant predator in the park’s rivers, this species regulates aquatic life and adds to the park’s rich biodiversity.

Birds

The park also offers a sanctuary for a diverse range of bird species, making it a hotspot for ornithologists and birdwatchers.

Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
With its striking black plumage and red facial markings, this bird is a distinctive presence in the park’s open areas.

Grey Crowned Crane
Known for its elegant crest and elaborate courtship displays, this crane frequents the park’s wetlands.

Northern Carmine Bee-eater
Vibrant and acrobatic, these bee-eaters can often be seen in flocks, darting through the park’s skies.

African Fish Eagle
This iconic bird of prey, with its powerful build and distinctive call, is frequently spotted along the park’s rivers.

Saddle-billed Stork
A large, colorful wader, it is often seen gracefully foraging in the park’s shallow waters.

White-faced Whistling Duck
Social and vocal, these ducks form large flocks near the park’s water bodies, creating a lively spectacle.

Senegal Coucal
This skulking bird with its chestnut wings is often found in the park’s bushy areas.

Goliath Heron
The world’s largest heron, it stalks the park’s rivers and wetlands in search of fish.

Marabou Stork
A towering scavenger, it is often seen near water sources or in open savannas.

Violet Turaco
With its vibrant plumage and distinctive crest, this bird adds a burst of color to the park’s treetops.

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Engaging Kouroufing National Park

Embark on a thrilling game drive through Kouroufing National Park, where expert guides navigate diverse terrains to reveal its rich wildlife. Open savannas offer the chance to observe grazing antelopes like the roan or a pride of lions basking under the sun.

Drives through wooded areas might unveil a fleeting glimpse of a leopard or the comical antics of warthogs. Along the way, guides provide fascinating insights into animal behaviors, ecological dynamics, and conservation efforts, ensuring an educational and memorable experience.

For bird enthusiasts, the park offers dedicated birdwatching tours designed to highlight its avian diversity. Early morning outings provide the best opportunity to spot species like the Grey Crowned Crane or the vibrant Northern Carmine Bee-eater.

With the assistance of binoculars and knowledgeable ornithologists, visitors can explore wetland areas, grasslands, and wooded regions, each offering unique birding opportunities.

These expeditions also emphasize the importance of preserving habitats for these remarkable species.  Come discover and explore the avian diversity.

Discover the park’s aquatic ecosystems through guided river and wetland tours, perfect for observing species that thrive near water. Visitors can glide along calm waterways in canoes, spotting Nile crocodiles basking on the banks or herons wading gracefully in the shallows.

These tours also provide a close-up view of the wetlands’ role in supporting biodiversity and mitigating climate change, blending relaxation with ecological education. Each journey offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with the tranquil beauty of Kouroufing National Park.

Related National Parks

Kouroufing National Park
Wongo National Park