Garissa

Garissa County lies in eastern Kenya along the Tana River, bordering Somalia to the east. It is a vast, semi-arid region home to Somali and Fafi communities. The county capital, Garissa town, is the largest urban centre in north-eastern Kenya. The Tana River provides a green lifeline through the dry landscape, supporting agriculture and wildlife. The county has several national reserves — Rahole and Arawale — offering wildlife viewing, though the security situation near the Somali border requires careful attention and checking current travel advisories.

The dry months of June to October and January to March offer the best access. The long rains (April–June) and short rains (October–December) can make unpaved roads difficult. Heat is most intense from December to March.

The main road from Nairobi to Garissa is paved. Matatus and buses connect Garissa town to other centres. Roads to Dadaab and the border areas are unpaved and may require a 4WD.

• Garissa — the county capital, a major regional centre on the Tana River.
• Dadaab — site of the world's largest refugee camp complex.
• Masalani — town on the Tana River.
• Modogashe — town in the northern part of the county.
• Hulugho — settlement near the Somali border.
• Bura — agricultural town on the Tana River.
• Liboi — border town on the Kenya–Somalia frontier.
• Rahole National Reserve — wildlife reserve along the Tana River.
• Arawale National Reserve — protects the Tana River ecosystem and riverine forest.

Somali-influenced cuisine is prevalent: spiced rice (pilau), sambusas, mandazi, and goat meat. Fresh fish from the Tana River is also available. Camel milk and meat are traditional.

Garissa has a strong Somali cultural heritage with traditional music, poetry, and dance. The annual Garissa Camel Derby and cultural festivals showcase Somali traditions and camel racing.

• Tana River boat trips near Garissa town.
• Wildlife viewing at Rahole and Arawale National Reserves.
• Cultural experiences with Somali and Fafi communities.
• Camel market in Garissa town.