Arawale National Reserve

Arawale National Reserve is a 533 sq. km conservation area in Garissa County, about 77 km south of Garissa town. Established in 1973, the reserve borders the Tana River to the east and the Garissa–Lamu road to the west. Though little-visited, Arawale holds immense ecological importance as the world’s only official sanctuary for the Hirola (Hunter’s hartebeest), one of the rarest antelope species on Earth.

Wildlife in Arawale National Reserve

The primary purpose of Arawale’s gazettement was to protect the Hirola, a critically endangered antelope found only in this region of Kenya and parts of Somalia. Beyond the Hirola, the reserve shelters other globally threatened species, including:

• Grevy’s zebra
• East African wild dog
• East African cheetah

Arawale is also home to elephants, giraffes, lesser kudu, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of smaller antelope. The dry savannah landscape and riverine habitats along the Tana River support a remarkable diversity of birdlife, with migratory and resident species delighting birdwatchers year-round.

Best Time to Visit Arawale National Reserve

The reserve can be visited throughout the year, but the most rewarding seasons are:

• January to February and June to October: Ideal for game drives and wildlife viewing.
• Wet season (March–May, November): Best for birdwatching, as many species are nesting and breeding.

Things to Do in Arawale National Reserve

Despite its remoteness, Arawale offers unique opportunities for adventurous travelers:

• Game drives to spot Hirola and other rare wildlife.
• Birdwatching along the Tana River and seasonal wetlands.
• Guided nature walks exploring the savannah bushland.
• Camping and picnicking in designated areas for a wilderness experience.

Landscape and Scenery of Arawale National Reserve

The reserve is dominated by thorn-bush savannah and patches of riverine forest near the Tana River. This stark yet beautiful landscape offers dramatic sunsets and an authentic off-the-beaten-path safari atmosphere.

How to Get to Arawale National Reserve

• By Road: Arawale can be reached from Nairobi or the Kenyan coast. The reserve lies about 250 km from Mombasa and 130 km from Malindi. A 4WD vehicle is essential, as there are no established internal roads.
• By Air: Visitors can charter domestic flights to Garissa, Malindi, or Mombasa, then continue overland.
• By Water: Some local transport options use ferries and boats along the Tana River, though these are less common for tourists.

Travel Tips for Visiting Arawale National Reserve

• Access: The reserve is remote with limited infrastructure. Visits often require coordination with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) or local conservation organizations.
• Safety: Garissa County has experienced security challenges in the past; it is advisable to check travel advisories and plan with trusted operators.
• Accommodation: There are no lodges or tented camps inside Arawale. The nearest accommodation is in Garissa town to the north or Garsen to the south, both several hours away. Visitors should be prepared for basic camping if staying within the reserve.

Why Visit Arawale National Reserve

For travelers seeking untouched wilderness and the chance to see one of the world’s rarest antelopes, Arawale offers a truly special experience. Its remote location, unspoiled landscapes, and conservation significance make it a destination for adventurous safari-goers, conservation enthusiasts, and birdwatchers who want to explore beyond Kenya’s traditional safari circuit.