Conservation & Restoration

Conservation & Restoration at Haller Park

Haller Park in Mombasa, Kenya, is a living example of how barren land can be reborn into a thriving sanctuary. Once a deserted limestone quarry, the area was transformed by visionary ecologist Dr. René Haller into a green paradise filled with forests, wetlands, and wildlife.

Today, Haller Park is recognized worldwide as one of the most successful examples of ecological restoration, conservation education, and community sustainability.

From Abandoned Quarry to Thriving Ecosystem

In the early 1970s, Bamburi Cement’s quarries were left barren, stripped of life and biodiversity. Dr. Haller began experimenting with pioneer species like casuarina trees, millipedes, and fishponds to slowly rebuild soil fertility and ecological balance.

Decades later, the once lifeless land is now home to:

Over 30 species of mammals, including giraffes, hippos, and antelope
More than 160 bird species
Reptiles, amphibians, and countless insects
Restored forests and wetlands

🌍 External Reference: Learn about ecological restoration principles at the Society for Ecological Restoration.

Key Conservation Initiatives at Haller Park

Forest Restoration

Millions of trees have been planted, creating microclimates, improving soil quality, and providing shade for wildlife and visitors. Native trees such as neem, baobab, and mangrove have been reintroduced.

Wetland Rehabilitation

Wetlands now filter and clean water naturally, supporting fish, frogs, and migratory birds. They also protect coastal ecosystems from erosion and flooding.

Butterfly Breeding & Pollinator Programs

The Butterfly Pavilion educates visitors on the importance of pollinators and breeds butterflies to release into the forest, strengthening local ecosystems.

Aquaculture Systems

Our integrated fish ponds recycle nutrients from hippos and wetlands, providing sustainable food for local communities while supporting biodiversity.

Wildlife Reintroduction

Once barren, the park now provides safe habitats for giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, antelope, and more. Carefully managed breeding programs ensure genetic diversity and long-term survival.

Environmental Monitoring

Our team monitors soil, water health, species diversity and distribution, and plant growth, enabling us to build a more resilient ecosystem and share effective restoration practices globally

Education & Community Involvement

Haller Park isn’t just about animals and forests — it’s about people, too. Thousands of schoolchildren visit annually for conservation education, guided tours, and hands-on learning.

Local communities benefit from:

Employment opportunities at the park
Training in sustainable farming and aquaculture
Awareness programs on wildlife and environmental protection

This ensures that conservation goes hand-in-hand with human well-being.

Awards & Global Recognition

Haller Park has received worldwide recognition, including:

Global 500 Roll of Honour by UNEP (1991)
Featured in National Geographic documentaries
Case studies in environmental education across the globe

How You Can Support

Sponsor a Tree

Donate to the Butterfly Program

Contribute to Environmental Education

Partner with Us for Research or Community Projects

Quick Facts & Impact

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Acres of degraded land restored

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bird species recorded

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students hosted yearly for conservation learning

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butterflies bred and released annually

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years of restoration & environmental leadership

“Haller Park proves what the world needs to see — that even the most damaged landscapes can be healed.”

Dr. René Haller

Founder

Be a part of one of Africa’s most inspiring restoration success stories.

Common Questions (Mini FAQ)

Who started Haller Park’s restoration project?

Dr. René Haller, a Swiss naturalist, began the restoration in the 1970s.

How long did it take to transform the quarry?

Can visitors participate in conservation activities?

Conservation & Restoration