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Ishaqbini Hirola Conservancy is a unique and vital wildlife conservation area located in the Ijara district of Garissa County, northeastern Kenya. Spanning over 72 square kilometers, it is one of the few places in the world where the critically endangered Hirola antelope, also known as the Hunter’s hartebeest, can still be found in the wild. The conservancy was established as a community-driven initiative with the main goal of protecting the remaining population of Hirola, which is considered the world's rarest antelope.
Apart from being a sanctuary for the Hirola, the conservancy also supports a range of other wildlife including reticulated giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, warthogs, zebras, and over 100 species of birds. Managed by the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) and local communities, Ishaqbini represents a successful model of community-led conservation and eco-tourism in the dry savannah regions of Kenya.
Reaching Ishaqbini Hirola Conservancy can be an adventure in itself due to its remote location. The conservancy is located approximately 350 kilometers northeast of Nairobi. The most common route is to fly into Garissa or Hola, which are the nearest towns with airstrips. From Garissa, visitors must travel by road through Bura or Ijara to reach the conservancy. The drive can take several hours, especially during the rainy season when roads can be challenging.
Private 4x4 vehicles are recommended for this trip. Some tour operators and conservation-based travel agencies offer packages that include transportation, guides, and accommodation. For international visitors, it is best to coordinate with local tourism offices or NRT for detailed travel arrangements.
Ishaqbini is located in a semi-arid region, which means it experiences hot and dry conditions for most of the year. Temperatures can range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) during the day and slightly cooler at night. The area has two rainy seasons – the long rains from March to May, and the short rains from October to December. Visiting during the dry season is recommended as the roads are more accessible and wildlife sightings are more frequent due to reduced vegetation and water availability.
The conservancy is open to visitors year-round, but guided visits are usually conducted during daylight hours. It is advisable to arrive in the morning and leave before sunset. Since Ishaqbini is a protected conservation area, entry must be arranged in advance through the Northern Rangelands Trust or partnering tour operators.
Ishaqbini is globally recognized for its efforts in conserving the critically endangered Hirola antelope. The conservancy is home to the world's only predator-proof sanctuary for the Hirola, where a carefully managed population is protected from threats such as poaching and predation. It is a symbol of community-led conservation success and has received attention from international wildlife organizations and researchers.
Apart from the Hirola, Ishaqbini is also known for its rich biodiversity, birdlife, and the successful reintroduction of lions in 2012 after nearly 40 years of local extinction. It provides a rare opportunity for eco-tourists and wildlife lovers to experience untouched savannah ecosystems and observe wildlife in a non-commercial setting.
Visitors are required to book their trip in advance through the conservancy's management or associated travel operators. Entry fees vary depending on nationality and group size, and typically include the cost of a guided tour. Most visitors are accompanied by local rangers who offer insight into the conservation efforts and wildlife behaviors.
Overnight stays can be arranged at nearby eco-lodges or community-managed campsites. These accommodations are basic but provide a rustic and immersive experience in the wilderness. Meals, water, and other amenities are usually included in the travel package.
The Ishaqbini Hirola Conservancy was officially established in the early 2000s as a response to the drastic decline of the Hirola antelope population. Once numbering in the thousands, the Hirola faced near extinction due to poaching, habitat loss, and competition with livestock. With support from the Northern Rangelands Trust and conservation NGOs, the local communities came together to fence off a portion of land to create a secure environment for the species.
While the conservancy does not feature man-made architectural monuments, its fencing system, watchtowers, ranger outposts, and eco-camps represent practical and sustainable infrastructure that support wildlife protection without disturbing the natural ecosystem.
There are several unique experiences for visitors at Ishaqbini Hirola Conservancy:
Ishaqbini Hirola Conservancy is not just a travel destination – it's a living story of wildlife rescue, community dedication, and the importance of protecting Earth's rarest species. A visit here supports both conservation and local livelihoods, making it a rewarding and meaningful journey into the heart of Kenya’s hidden wilderness.
