Nestled in Garissa County, north eastern province, Kenya, Arawale national reserve boasts a unique landscape of dry thornbush savannah. Strategically located merely 5 km from the tana river’s left bank, this protected area has been a sanctuary for wildlife since its gazetting in 1973. Spanning over an area of 533 km², Arawale national reserve was primarily established to safeguard the critically endangered hirola (hunter’s hartebeest), a rare antelope species endemic to this region. This conservation initiative has been instrumental in protecting the hirola and its habitat, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this fragile ecosystem.
Arawale national reserve is a vital component of Kenya’s conservation efforts, providing a safe haven for various wildlife species. The reserve’s diverse landscape supports a range of plant and animal species, underscoring its importance in maintaining ecological balance in the region.
Arawele national reserve wildlife
The Arawele national reserve is renowned for its most prized asset: the critically endangered hirola, also known as hunter’s hartebeest (‘beatragus hunter’). This slender, lyre-horned ungulate is affectionately referred to as the “four-eyed antelope” due to its distinctive preorbital glands. The hirola is found exclusively in this region and is perilously close to extinction, with a mere 245 specimens detected during a 2010 aerial survey. Although the actual population may be slightly larger, conservation efforts are underway to protect this fragile species. In a bid to safeguard the hirola’s future, some individuals have been relocated to Tsavo east national park.
Arawele national reserve also serves as a vital sanctuary for various threatened species, including; elephant, giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, African wild dog, cheetah, lesser kudu, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, lions, leopards, dik-dik, klipspringer, oribi, reptiles such as snakes, lizards.
The reserve is also home various bird species including various migratory and residential birds such as Somali ostrich, vultures, eagles among others which can be spotted near the splendid tana river.
Activities done in Arawele national park.
Wildlife viewing
Tucked away in a remote corner of Kenya, Arawele national reserve has faced significant threats from poaching. However, despite these hurdles, the reserve remains a vital sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. Arawele national reserve is home to an impressive assortment of wildlife, including: hirola antelopes, buffalos, lesser kudu, lions, Grevy’s zebras, cheetahs, elephants, Topi.
The tana river, which flows gently through Arawele national reserve, supports a diverse array of aquatic life, including; Nile crocodiles, hippos. As the tana river winds its way towards the Indian ocean, it nourishes the reserve’s ecosystem, supporting the rich biodiversity that makes Arawele national reserve a unique and valuable conservation area.
Birding
Arawele national reserve is a haven for avian enthusiasts, boasting a diverse array of bird species. One of the most ideal locations for birdwatching is along the majestic tana river, where visitors can spot a wide range of birdlife. The reserve attracts both migratory birds from Europe and north Africa, as well as residential birds. This unique blend of bird species creates a thrilling experience for birdwatchers.
The wet season is the best time for birdwatching in Arawele national reserve, as it coincides with the breeding season for residential birds. This period offers unparalleled opportunities to observe birds in their natural habitat.
Nature walks
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Arawele national reserve with a guided nature walk. This leisurely excursion, lasting approximately two to three hours, offers a unique opportunity to connect with the reserve’s stunning wildlife and ecosystems.
As you stroll through the reserve, your knowledgeable guide will point out the fascinating flora and fauna that call Arawele home. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife encounters and spot a diverse range of animals, from majestic antelopes to vibrant bird species, unique vegetation and take in the breathtaking views of the tana river and surrounding landscape.
Other activities to engage include camping and picnics.
Best time to visit
Arawele national reserve is accessible throughout the year, offering unique experiences during different seasons. However, the most ideal periods to visit the reserve are during the dry seasons, which occur in two phases:
Phase 1: June to October
This period is characterized by mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. The dry conditions concentrate wildlife around water sources, making it easier to spot a diverse range of species.
Phase 2: December to February
This shorter dry season offers similar advantages to the first phase, with comfortable temperatures and reduced rainfall. The landscape is particularly scenic during this time, with lush vegetation and vibrant wildflowers.
Why visit during these periods?
Visiting Arawele national reserve during these periods offers several advantages:
Improved wildlife viewing: dry conditions concentrate wildlife around water sources, increasing the chances of spotting a variety of species.
Comfortable temperatures: mild temperatures make outdoor activities, such as guided nature walks and game drives, more enjoyable.
Scenic landscapes: the dry seasons offer unique photographic opportunities, with the reserve’s landscape taking on a distinctive character
Consider booking with vibrant holiday safaris to help plan your visit to Arawele national reserve during these optimal periods to maximize your wildlife viewing and overall safari experience.
Where to stay
For those seeking an immersive experience in Arawele national reserve, camping is the ideal way to spend the night under the stars. However, for travelers preferring more conventional accommodations, several hotels and lodges are available in nearby towns.
Camping within Arawele national reserve offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the thrill of the African wilderness. Visitors can pitch their tents in designated areas, surrounded by the reserve’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
For those preferring more comfortable accommodations, several hotels and lodges are available in nearby towns, including; nomad palace hotel, tana garden hotel, lantern resort, halugo palace hotel, palm oasis resort Garissa. These accommodations offer comfortable rooms, restaurants, and other modern amenities, easy access to the reserve, as well as other local attractions and travelers can choose from a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts.
How to get there
Arawele national reserve is accessible via various routes, offering flexibility for visitors. The reserve can be reached by road or air, with several options available:
By road
From Mombasa: the reserve is approximately 250 kilometers from Mombasa, accessible via the malindi-garsen route.
From Malindi: the reserve is about 130 kilometers from Malindi, accessible via the garsen route.
From Nairobi: the best route is via Thika and Garissa, or alternatively, via Mombasa and Malindi.
By air
Domestic charters: visitors can use domestic chartered flights to Mombasa or Malindi, followed by a road transfer to the reserve.
Visitors to the park can also reach the reserve by a ferry crossing which is available from garsen to Hola, covering a distance of 87 kilometers, Arawele national reserve is part of Kenya’s Arawale-Boni-dodori reserve, which spans both sides of the river before it empties into the Indian ocean between Malindi and Lamu.