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Gashaka-Gumti National Park
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Gashaka-Gumti Overview

Gashaka-Gumti National Park, locally known as “Gidan Gashaka da Gumti” in Hausa, is Nigeria’s largest national park, spanning approximately 6,731 square kilometers (2,598 square miles). Established in 1991, the park is situated in the mountainous regions of Taraba and Adamawa States in northeastern Nigeria, near the border with Cameroon. This protected area is a crucial ecological haven, known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique biodiversity, and cultural significance.

The terrain of Gashaka-Gumti National Park is exceptionally diverse, ranging from lowland savannas to montane forests and rugged peaks. The park’s highlands include the Chappal Waddi Mountain, Nigeria’s highest peak at 2,419 meters (7,936 feet). The landscape features rolling grasslands, dense rainforests, and scenic rivers such as the Mayo Kam and the River Taraba, which provide vital water sources. Seasonal waterfalls and steep gorges add to the park’s dramatic beauty, making it one of Nigeria’s most visually stunning locations.

Gashaka-Gumti is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. Its montane forests host rare and endangered species, including the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee and the elusive forest elephant. Other notable mammals include leopards, golden cats, and giant forest hogs. The park is also a sanctuary for numerous bird species, with over 500 recorded, including the red-necked francolin, grey-headed kingfisher, and the critically endangered Bannerman’s weaver. Amphibians, reptiles, and countless insect species further enhance its ecological richness. The diverse plant life includes medicinal herbs, towering hardwoods, and unique montane flora.

Visitors to Gashaka-Gumti National Park can immerse themselves in its natural beauty through guided hikes and trekking expeditions. The climb to Chappal Waddi offers stunning panoramic views and a chance to explore the high-altitude ecosystems. Game drives through the savanna and rainforest regions provide opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find the park particularly rewarding, given its rich avian diversity. River tours and fishing activities along the park’s waterways offer unique perspectives of its aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, cultural interactions with nearby communities, including the Fulani and Mambilla peoples, provide insights into traditional lifestyles and their relationship with the park.

Despite its significance, Gashaka-Gumti faces challenges such as poaching, illegal logging, and agricultural encroachment, which threaten its ecosystems. The remote location and limited infrastructure also hinder conservation and tourism efforts. However, initiatives led by the Nigeria National Park Service, with support from international partners, aim to address these issues. Conservation projects focus on anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community engagement to ensure sustainable development.

Gashaka-Gumti National Park is a crown jewel of Nigeria’s natural heritage. Its vast landscapes, diverse wildlife, and cultural importance make it a vital conservation area and an exceptional destination for eco-tourism. Protecting this park is essential for preserving its unique ecosystems and ensuring its ecological and cultural legacy for generations to come.

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Gashaka-Gumti National Park Highlights

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Gashaka-Gumti National Park, the largest in Nigeria, spans diverse ecosystems from savannahs to montane forests, making it a biodiversity hotspot. The park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including many rare and endangered species.

Nigeria-Cameroon Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes ellioti)
This critically endangered subspecies thrives in the park’s dense forests. Known for its complex social structures and tool use, the chimpanzee is a key species for conservation in Gashaka-Gumti.

Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis)
Smaller and more secretive than savannah elephants, forest elephants inhabit the park’s woodlands and rainforests. They play an essential role in seed dispersal and maintaining forest structure.

Leopard (Panthera pardus)
Leopards are elusive predators that roam the park’s varied landscapes, preying on antelope, rodents, and other small mammals. Their agility and stealth make them masters of the forest.

Drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus)
This rare primate is closely related to mandrills and inhabits the park’s lowland and montane forests. Drills live in social groups and feed on fruits, seeds, and insects.

Golden Cat (Caracal aurata)
A shy and secretive predator, the golden cat is found in the park’s dense forests. It preys on small mammals and birds, relying on stealth for survival.

Bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus)
This shy antelope inhabits forest edges and thickets, feeding on leaves, fruits, and grasses. It is often spotted near water sources within the park.

Olive Baboon (Papio anubis)
Olive baboons are highly social primates that thrive in Gashaka-Gumti’s forests and savannahs. They forage for fruits, seeds, and small animals, often forming large troops.

Pangolin (Smutsia spp.)
These nocturnal, scaly mammals feed primarily on ants and termites. Their protective armor and unique foraging behavior make them one of the park’s most fascinating residents.

Red River Hog (Potamochoerus porcus)
This colorful wild pig is a common sight in the park’s forests. It forages for roots, tubers, and fruits, often moving in family groups.

Rock Hyrax (Procavia capensis)
Despite their small size, rock hyraxes are related to elephants. They inhabit rocky outcrops and feed on grasses, leaves, and fruits, often sunbathing on warm rocks.

Birds

Gashaka-Gumti National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with its range of ecosystems supporting a rich diversity of avian species. It is an important site for both resident and migratory birds.

African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)
This intelligent and charismatic parrot is a frequent sight in the park’s forests, where it feeds on fruits, seeds, and nuts.

Turaco (Tauraco spp.)
These colorful birds, with their distinctive crests and vibrant plumage, are common in the park’s forest canopy. They feed on fruits and are key seed dispersers.

Palm-nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis)
This unique vulture is often seen near oil palms, feeding on palm nuts and occasionally small animals.

Crowned Eagle (Stephanoaetus coronatus)
This powerful bird of prey is often spotted in the park’s forests, where it hunts monkeys, small antelope, and other mammals.

Yellow-billed Kite (Milvus aegyptius)
A common raptor, this kite is often seen gliding above the park’s savannahs, scavenging and hunting small animals.

Black-casqued Hornbill (Ceratogymna atrata)
This large hornbill is a vital seed disperser, often seen in the park’s dense forests.

Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)
This skilled hunter is frequently found near the park’s rivers and wetlands, hovering before diving to catch fish.

Green Wood Hoopoe (Phoeniculus purpureus)
A social and vocal bird, it inhabits the park’s woodlands, feeding on insects and small invertebrates.

African Pitta (Pitta angolensis)
This elusive and brightly colored bird is a rare sight in the park’s forests, feeding on insects and small invertebrates.

White-throated Bee-eater (Merops albicollis)
A migratory bird, this elegant species is often seen hunting insects in open areas and along forest edges.

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Engaging Gashaka-Gumti National Park

One of the most immersive ways to experience Gashaka-Gumti National Park is through guided wildlife treks. These treks allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from lowland rainforests to high-altitude grasslands, while observing its incredible array of wildlife.

Accompanied by experienced guides, participants can encounter species such as the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee, drills, and forest elephants in their natural habitats. The treks also offer the opportunity to learn about the park’s unique ecosystems, conservation challenges, and the behavior of its wildlife.

Whether it’s spotting the elusive golden cat or observing olive baboons foraging in social groups, these treks provide a thrilling and educational experience. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. Wildlife treks are not only an adventure but also a meaningful way to connect with nature and understand the importance of preserving this biodiverse region.

Gashaka-Gumti National Park’s highlands, including the Gashaka Mountains, offer stunning vistas and a chance to explore some of Nigeria’s most pristine environments. Guided mountain hikes take visitors through montane forests, grasslands, and rocky outcrops, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and rivers.

Along the way, hikers may encounter unique species such as bushbucks, rock hyraxes, and a variety of endemic plants. The mountain trails are also ideal for observing the park’s rich birdlife, including the majestic crowned eagle.

These hikes provide a blend of physical challenge and serene beauty, making them a favorite activity for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.

The Mayo River, which runs through Gashaka-Gumti National Park, offers a tranquil way to explore its riparian ecosystems through guided canoeing excursions. The river is a lifeline for many of the park’s species, and canoeing allows visitors to observe animals such as hippos, crocodiles, and red river hogs along its banks.

Birdwatchers will delight in spotting species like the pied kingfisher and African grey parrot flitting around the water’s edge. The calm pace of canoeing allows for a peaceful yet engaging experience, perfect for photography and nature appreciation.

Guides also share insights into the river’s role in sustaining the park’s biodiversity and its importance to local communities. Canoeing on the Mayo River is a serene adventure that complements the park’s more land-based activities.

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