Guide to Rahole National Reserve

Rahole National Reserve is located on the northern bank of the Tana River. Rahole National Reserve is located northeast of Kora National Reserve, encompassing a vast expanse of arid thorny bushland in the Garissa district of Northeastern Province, approximately 150 km northeast of Mount Kenya. Rahole National Reserve encompasses an area of 870 square kilometers, is located 348 kilometers from Nairobi, and was created in 1968. The reserve is situated on the northern bank of the Tana River at the western edge of the North Eastern Province, encompassing a wide area of pristine wilderness. The National Reserve is as a sanctuary for migratory species from Meru National Park. The reserve is administered by the Kenya Wildlife Service.

The reserve is an extensive area of thorny bushland, providing ample opportunities for guests to observe hippos, elephants, Beisa Oryx, Grevy zebra, crocodiles, and other bird species.

Things to explore in Rahole National Reserve.

Wildlife.

Rahole National Reserve boasts a diverse and plentiful array of animal species, including elephants, lions, spotted hyenas, jackals, hippos, giraffes, impalas, crocodiles, Grant’s and Thompson’s gazelles, plains zebras, elands, lesser kudus, bushbucks, Grevy’s zebras, Beisa oryx, duikers, dik-diks, among numerous others. Rahole National Reserve provides a diverse array of plains game for filming and is among the premier locations in Kenya for capturing footage of hippos and crocodiles.

Bird species.

The Reserve is an excellent avian observation site, including a diverse array of bird species, making it ideal for both birdwatching and filmmaking. The Reserve has both residential and migratory bird species, among other species present in the area.

Activities conducted in Rahole National Reserve.

Wildlife Observation.

Rahole National Reserve offers game viewing opportunities for guests, who can traverse the reserve in their four-wheel drive vehicles. This experience is most optimal during the morning and evening, when animal sightings are abundant. Tourists can observe a variety of species, including the Beisa Oryx, Bushbuck, Lesser Kudu, Eland, Zebra, Elephant, Grevy Zebra, Spotted Hyena, Impala, and Crocodiles, among others. This activity provides travelers with tranquility during wildlife observation and creates lasting memories through the sighting of many animal species.

Nature Walks.

This activity primarily involves numerous tourists that traverse the area to approach various animal species, aided by guides who provide explanations and showcase the diverse fauna there.

Bird observation.

Rahole National Reserve is a premier birding location that provides exceptional birdwatching opportunities for tourists due to its diverse avian species.

Outdoor camping.

Camping is permitted in the reserve, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature. They are provided with tents to set up on the ground, where they can enjoy campfires at night and stargaze while sharing experiences with family and friends. As morning approaches, the guests typically relish the sounds of birds and animals that consistently awaken them.

Great times for visiting Rahole National Reserve.

The peak tourism season in the Reserve occurs from June to September.

Accommodation options in Rahole National Reserve.

A variety of lodgings are available in and around the reserve, including budget, mid-range, and luxury options such as the Ololo Safari Lodge and African Pearl Spa, among others.

The Reserve is an expansive area of thorny bushland in Kenya, providing guests with the exceptional opportunity to observe hippos, elephants, Beisa Oryx, Grevy zebra, crocodiles, and other bird species.