Arawale National Reserve: Kenya’s Rare Species Sanctuary

Arawale National Reserve, nestled in the remote North Eastern Province of Kenya, is a true hidden gem and a critical sanctuary for some of Africa’s rarest and most endangered species. Established in 1974, its primary purpose was the in-situ conservation of the Hirola (or Hunter’s Hartebeest), an antelope species so critically endangered that it’s found nowhere else in the world except this corner of northeastern Kenya and southwestern Somalia.

This sprawling reserve, covering approximately 533 square kilometers, is characterized by its dry thorn-bush savannah, interspersed with acacia and other drought-resistant trees, and bordered by the life-giving Tana River to the west. This unique arid landscape provides essential habitat for species adapted to harsher conditions.

Arawale’s significance as a “rare species sanctuary” is highlighted by its role as a refuge for several globally threatened animals beyond just the hirola. These include the Grevy’s Zebra, a magnificently striped and endangered zebra species; the highly intelligent and endangered East African Wild Dog; and the East African Cheetah. Beyond these four critically threatened species, Arawale is home to a variety of other wildlife. You can find African bush elephants, lions, giraffes (including Reticulated giraffes), lesser kudus, buffaloes, hippos, and crocodiles, particularly along the Tana River. Other plains game such as topi, Grant’s gazelle, and Beisa oryx also roam the reserve. Birdlife is rich and varied, with both migratory and resident species thriving, especially near the Tana River, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.

Visiting Arawale National Reserve is not for the faint of heart; it offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path wilderness experience. The reserve is largely undeveloped for tourism, with minimal infrastructure and no accommodations within its boundaries. Visitors typically require a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to challenging road conditions, and self-sufficient camping is the recommended option for an overnight stay. This remoteness, however, is precisely what makes Arawale a unique and rewarding destination for adventurers and conservation enthusiasts seeking to witness rare wildlife in an undisturbed environment and contribute to vital conservation efforts.