Arawale National Reserve

Arawale National Reserve is a protected area in Kenya.

Arawale National Reserve at a Glance

Location
Coastal Kenya, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-1.426300, 40.194744
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
July to October for the Great Migration in the Mara. January to February for dry season wildlife. Avoid long rains (April–May).

Getting to Arawale National Reserve

Nearest airport: Hola Airstrip (HOA), 24 km away.

Nearest international airport: Kismayo International Airport (KMU), 278 km away.

Big Five in Arawale National Reserve

3 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard Tortoise, Lion, African Buffalo.

Weather & Climate in Arawale National Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Arawale National Reserve occur in March, averaging 29.9°C (up to 37.1°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 25.8°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 8.9mm. Average humidity: 59.5%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 29.3°C (rainfall: 20.4mm)
  • February: 29.9°C (rainfall: 8.9mm)
  • March: 29.9°C (rainfall: 34.3mm)
  • April: 28.5°C (rainfall: 110.0mm)
  • May: 27.7°C (rainfall: 57.3mm)
  • June: 26.8°C (rainfall: 26.1mm)
  • July: 25.8°C (rainfall: 23.3mm)
  • August: 26.2°C (rainfall: 21.7mm)
  • September: 27.0°C (rainfall: 19.1mm)
  • October: 28.1°C (rainfall: 34.8mm)
  • November: 27.3°C (rainfall: 137.1mm)
  • December: 28.2°C (rainfall: 61.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Arawale National Reserve

The best months to visit Arawale National Reserve are September, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 29.29°C, rainfall 20.4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 61.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 29.89°C, rainfall 8.9mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 59.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 29.95°C, rainfall 34.3mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 62.6%
  • April: Good, temperature 28.49°C, rainfall 110mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 71.5%
  • May: Great, temperature 27.7°C, rainfall 57.3mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 68.6%
  • June: Great, temperature 26.81°C, rainfall 26.1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 66.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 25.84°C, rainfall 23.3mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 66.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 26.16°C, rainfall 21.7mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 65.5%
  • September: Great, temperature 27.04°C, rainfall 19.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 64.3%
  • October: Great, temperature 28.09°C, rainfall 34.8mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 64.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.33°C, rainfall 137.1mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 75%
  • December: Great, temperature 28.2°C, rainfall 61.6mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 70%

Wildlife in Arawale National Reserve

Home to 24 recorded species including 4 reptiles, 4 predators, 3 iconic birds, 3 big five, 2 birds of prey, 2 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Arawale National Reserve

Based on average temperature of 27.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 66%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 28°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Arawale National Reserve

2 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Coastal Kenya

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya

Arawale National Reserve FAQs

What unique wildlife can I expect to see at Arawale National Reserve that I might not find elsewhere?

Arawale National Reserve is primarily known as a critical sanctuary for the critically endangered Hirola antelope, making it one of the few places in the world to spot this rare species. Beyond the Hirola, you might also encounter other dryland adapted species such as Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, and various gazelles.

What kind of safari experience does Arawale National Reserve offer, given its low visitor numbers?

Arawale offers an exceptionally remote and intimate wilderness experience, far removed from the typical tourist crowds found in more popular Kenyan parks. Visitors can expect undisturbed game viewing and a profound sense of solitude, making it ideal for those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

When is the best time to visit Arawale National Reserve for optimal wildlife viewing and travel conditions?

The dry seasons, typically from January to March and July to October, are generally considered the best times to visit Arawale. During these months, wildlife congregates around fewer water sources, making them easier to spot, and the drier roads are more accessible for safari vehicles.

How accessible is Arawale National Reserve, and what are the typical travel arrangements for visitors?

Arawale National Reserve is relatively remote and less developed for tourism, often requiring private charter flights to nearby airstrips followed by 4x4 transfers. Independent travel can be challenging, so it's highly recommended to arrange your visit through a specialized safari operator familiar with the region's logistics.

What kind of accommodation and facilities can I expect when visiting Arawale National Reserve?

Due to its remote nature and low visitor numbers, Arawale National Reserve offers very limited and often basic accommodation options, primarily consisting of mobile tented camps or designated wilderness campsites. Visitors should be prepared for a rustic experience with essential amenities, emphasizing self-sufficiency or fully catered arrangements by your safari operator.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet Kenya by Lonely Planet - In-depth guide to Kenya - Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu, and the coast. Detailed maps, accommodation reviews, and practical travel advice.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds by Joy Adamson - The true story of raising Elsa the lioness in Kenya and releasing her back to the wild. The book that started safari tourism culture and inspired generations.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • The White Masai by Corinne Hofmann - International bestseller about a Swiss woman who falls in love with a Samburu warrior during a holiday in Kenya. A wild, unforgettable true story of cultural collision. Over 4 million copies sold.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen) - The quintessential Africa memoir - a poetic and evocative account of life on a coffee plantation in Kenya. The book that defined the romance of East Africa for generations.
  • I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann - Classic memoir of an Italian woman's life on a Kenyan ranch - turned into a Hollywood film. A beautiful and heartbreaking love letter to East Africa.
  • West with the Night by Beryl Markham - Aviation adventure memoir set in Kenya - Hemingway called it one of the finest books he had ever read. A unique perspective on colonial East Africa.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.