Fazao-Malfakassa National Park
Centrale
Fazao-Malfakassa National Park is Togo's largest protected area, spanning over 1,900 square kilometers across the Centrale and Kara regions. Established in 1975 by merging two forest reserves, the park features diverse landscapes including savanna woodlands, gallery forests, submontane forests, and grass-covered hills. It hosts a remarkable variety of wildlife, notably 244 bird species, making it an Important Bird Area. Antelope species such as bushbuck, duikers, waterbuck, and roan antelope thrive here, alongside a remnant population of elephants that have faced poaching threats. The park's terrain offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation, especially in the rocky hills of the Malfakassa hunting zone. Its ecological significance has led to its consideration for UNESCO World Heritage status, emphasizing its mixed cultural and natural value.
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Consejo: Visitors should plan to explore during the dry season for easier hiking and wildlife viewing. Prior booking or contacting local authorities is recommended to arrange guided tours and ensure access. While entrance fees may apply, discounted rates are often available for groups or students. Bringing binoculars is advisable for birdwatching, and adherence to park regulations helps protect its fragile ecosystem.
Datos interesantes
- •The park contains 244 known bird species, making it a designated Important Bird Area by BirdLife International.
- •Fazao-Malfakassa is the largest of Togo's three national parks, covering over 1,900 square kilometers.
- •It was formed by merging two forest reserves dating back to 1951.
- •The park supports a remnant elephant population monitored under the CITES program to prevent illegal killings.
Historia
Fazao-Malfakassa National Park was created in 1975 by combining two forest reserves established in 1951: Fazao and Malfakassa.
From 1990 to 2015, the park was managed by the Fondation Franz Weber under government authorization.
In 2002, it was added to UNESCO's World Heritage Tentative List recognizing its outstanding universal value.
The park has witnessed challenges such as poaching, particularly impacting elephant populations during the political unrest of the early 1990s, reducing their numbers significantly by the early 2000s.
Guía del lugar
Malfakassa Hunting Zone
An area featuring rocky hills ideal for hiking and observing wildlife, highlighting the park's varied terrain and natural beauty.
Forest Classée Du Fazao
The core forested area harboring most of the park's biodiversity, including dense savanna woodland and gallery forests.