In this study bio-char, a by-product of pyrolysis process, was evaluated as an alternative low-cost adsorbent for removal of Ni(II) and Co(II) ions from aqueous solution. Optimum adsorption conditions were determined as a function of pH, adsorbent dosage, initial metal ion concentration, contact time and temperature of solution for Ni(II) and Co(II) removal. Langmuir adsorption isotherm model adequately described the adsorption of Ni(II) and Co(II) ions onto bio-char. The pseudo-second order kinetic model better described the sorption kinetics with high correlation coefficients. The thermodynamic parameters ΔG°, ΔH° and ΔS° show a chemically favored, spontaneous and endothermic adsorption. It can be concluded that almond shell bio-char seems an effective, alternative, and low cost sorbent precursor for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions