Haller Park is a unique blend of nature, conservation, and ecological restoration, located along the Mombasa-Malindi Road in Majengo, Mombasa. As one of the key tourist attractions in the coastal region, it offers visitors a chance to experience a wide variety of wildlife, lush landscapes, and an insight into successful environmental restoration efforts. Whether you’re a local resident, a tourist, or an educational institution, understanding the entrance fees and the features of this park will help you plan your visit effectively.
A Brief History of Haller Park
Established in 1971, Haller Park is an impressive example of ecological transformation. The park was created on what was once an abandoned quarry belonging to Bamburi Cement. The quarry, once a site of industrial extraction, was transformed into a lush, thriving ecosystem with the vision of turning it into a sanctuary for wildlife and a center for environmental education. Today, the park stands as a testament to the potential of rehabilitating damaged ecosystems and bringing back the natural beauty of the region.
Haller Park is owned and managed by Lafarge Eco Systems, a subsidiary of Bamburi Cement Limited. Over the years, this project has garnered attention not only for its success in ecological restoration but also for its role in promoting environmental conservation and sustainability.
What to Expect at Haller Park
When you visit Haller Park, you are treated to a variety of attractions that include an impressive array of animals, a butterfly pavilion, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Some of the park’s highlights include:
- Wildlife Viewing: Haller Park is home to a diverse collection of animals, including:
- Hippos: These large mammals can be found wallowing in the park’s ponds and wetlands.
- Giraffes: Graceful and towering, giraffes are a highlight for visitors, offering the perfect photo opportunities.
- Crocodiles and Buffalos: Visitors can view these animals in their carefully managed enclosures.
- Giant Aldabra Tortoises: These impressive creatures, native to the Seychelles, are another highlight at Haller Park.
- Birds: Over 160 bird species have been recorded in the park, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
- Oryx and Elands: These majestic antelope species roam freely in the park, adding to the park’s biodiversity.
- The Butterfly Pavilion: In 1998, a butterfly pavilion was established to aid in the recovery of local butterfly species that had been endangered due to the quarrying activities. The pavilion now houses over 16 species of butterflies, and it serves as an educational resource for visitors to learn about the conservation efforts involved.
- The Forest and Nature Trails: For those who enjoy walking or bird watching, Haller Park offers well-maintained nature trails through its lush forest areas. These trails are an opportunity to experience the park’s rich biodiversity up close, while also learning about the various plant species that have been introduced to restore the ecosystem.
- Environmental Education: Haller Park provides educational programs for schools and universities, making it an excellent venue for learning about environmental restoration and conservation. The park’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its ongoing educational outreach efforts.
- Interactive Experiences: Visitors can engage with the park’s diverse wildlife and ecosystem through guided tours, where experts explain the history of the park, the species housed there, and the role it plays in conservation efforts.
Haller Park Entrance Fees
Haller Park has structured its entrance fees to cater to various groups of visitors, including tourists, residents, and educational groups. Below is a breakdown of the 2025 Haller Park entrance fees:
For Tourists
- East African Residents:
- Adults: Ksh. 500
- Children: Ksh. 200
- Non-East African Residents:
- Adults: Ksh. 1,400
- Children: Ksh. 600
For Educational Groups
- Lower Primary (Kindergarten to Std 3):
- Teachers: Ksh. 300
- Students: Ksh. 200
- Upper Primary (Std 4 to Std 8):
- Teachers: Ksh. 300
- Students: Ksh. 200
- Secondary School Students:
- Teachers: Ksh. 300
- Students: Ksh. 250
- Colleges and Universities:
- Teachers: Ksh. 300
- Students: Ksh. 250
The park offers reasonable rates for school and educational groups, making it an affordable and engaging destination for students and educators alike.
Haller Park Opening Hours
Haller Park is open to the public every day of the week, with the following hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturdays: Half-day (Typically 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM)
- Sundays: Closed
The half-day operation on Saturdays allows visitors to enjoy the park while ensuring staff have time to maintain the facility and ensure everything is in top shape for the coming week.
Planning Your Visit to Haller Park
When planning a visit to Haller Park, it’s important to factor in some practical details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
How to Get There
Haller Park is conveniently located along the Mombasa-Malindi Road, just a few kilometers from Mombasa city center. It is accessible by public transport, private cars, and taxis. If you’re traveling by public transport, various matatus and buses head towards the Mombasa-Malindi Road, making it easy to get to the park.
What to Bring
- Comfortable Clothing: The park involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing.
- Sunscreen: Since the park is in a coastal region, it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Water Bottle: It’s always a good idea to carry water to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
- Camera: With so many animals and picturesque scenes, a camera or smartphone will be perfect for capturing memories.
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
For those who want to learn more about the park and its animals, Haller Park offers guided tours. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who explain the park’s history, wildlife conservation efforts, and the ecological restoration work done on the site. Schools and universities can also book educational programs tailored to different age groups and curricula, making it a great place for educational field trips.
Haller Park’s Contribution to Conservation
Beyond being a tourist attraction, Haller Park plays a crucial role in conservation. The park’s efforts to rehabilitate a former cement quarry have been widely praised as a success story in the field of ecological restoration. The park’s biodiversity is a direct result of the careful planning and ongoing management efforts by Lafarge Eco Systems, which continue to monitor and restore the site to its natural state.
In addition, the Butterfly Pavilion at Haller Park contributes to the conservation of butterfly species that were once at risk due to mining activities. The park’s ongoing projects reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity preservation, making it a valuable resource for both locals and visitors alike.
Haller Park Contacts
For more information or inquiries, you can contact Haller Park directly through the following channels:
- Phone: 041 2101000, 0721 381 949, 0725 616 632
- Website: www.hallerpark.com
- Email: info@hallerpark.com
Haller Park Mombasa is more than just a park; it is a living testament to the power of ecological restoration and conservation. Whether you are a local resident, a tourist, or an educational group, the park offers an unforgettable experience that combines wildlife viewing, environmental education, and outdoor adventure. The reasonable entrance fees and well-maintained facilities make it an accessible destination for people of all ages.
With its impressive wildlife, educational programs, and commitment to sustainability, Haller Park is a must-visit destination for anyone in Mombasa or those traveling to the region.
