Kainji National Park, National park in Niger State, Nigeria
Kainji is a large protected area divided into two sectors separated by a reservoir. The landscape consists of savanna woodland, combining two formerly independent reserves into one connected system.
The area became a national park in 1979, bringing two existing reserves under one comprehensive management system. This step marked a turning point for conservation efforts in Nigeria.
Local fishermen around the lake maintain traditional techniques that have adapted to fit within the park's conservation rules. Visitors can observe these practices directly while traveling by boat across the water.
The Borgu sector is easiest to visit between December and June, when water levels drop and animals gather near remaining water sources. You will need a boat or jeep to reach different parts of this divided landscape.
African manatees inhabit the waters of the reservoir, large gentle mammals that are rarely spotted from a boat. Catching a glimpse of these creatures makes a boat ride across the lake memorable.
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