Pendjari National Park: An Overview of History, Amazing Facts and Things to Do
Located in the northern part of Benin, the Pendjari National Park (Parc National de la Pendjari) is a protected area of over 2,500 square kilometers and is one of the most important parks in West Africa. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, and buffalo, as well as many species of birds and reptiles. It is also a great spot for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
History
The Pendjari National Park was first established in 1954 as a hunting reserve, and was officially declared a protected area in 1972. The park has since been expanded to include the W National Park in Niger, making it one of the largest protected areas in West Africa. In 1996, the Pendjari National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is now managed by the Benin Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development.
Amazing Facts
The Pendjari National Park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including over 300 species of birds, as well as elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, and buffalo. It is also home to some of the most endangered species in West Africa, such as the West African lion and the African wild dog. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 300 species of birds, including the African Grey Parrot, the White-crowned Robin, and the African Grey Hornbill.
Things to Do
The Pendjari National Park is a great spot for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities, such as game drives, birdwatching, and nature walks. There are also several lodges and campsites in the park, which offer visitors the opportunity to stay in the park and explore the area. Visitors can also take part in boat trips on the Pendjari River, which offers a great opportunity to spot wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Overall, the Pendjari National Park is a great spot for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. With its wide variety of wildlife, stunning scenery, and great activities, it is a great spot for visitors to explore and enjoy the region.