DECAN Refuge, Dikhil Travel Guide

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Discover Djibouti's wildlife at DECAN Refuge, a sanctuary dedicated to conservation, rehabilitation, and environmental education.

DECAN Refuge, located a short drive south of Djibouti City, is a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing animals native to Djibouti and the Horn of Africa. The refuge provides a safe haven for injured, orphaned, or illegally captured animals, including cheetahs, lions, antelopes, and various bird species.

A brief summary to DECAN Refuge

BP 2136, RN2, Djibouti, DJ
Click to display
Click to display

Thursday 3:30 pm-6:30 pm
Friday 3:30 pm-6:30 pm
Saturday 3:30 pm-6:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring DECAN Refuge.

Visit in the late afternoon (3:30 PM - 6:30 PM) when the refuge is open and the animals are most active.
Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing and bird watching.
Check the DECAN website (in French) or call ahead to confirm opening hours and feeding times.

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Explore DECAN Refuge on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near DECAN Refuge, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

The most practical way to reach DECAN Refuge from Djibouti City is by taxi. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A round trip, including waiting time, should cost approximately 3000 DJF. The refuge is located about 15 km south of the city on RN2, the road towards the Somalia border.
Car Rental

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the area around Djibouti City, including DECAN Refuge. Several international and local car rental companies operate in the city. A 4x4 is recommended due to varying road conditions. From Djibouti City, take the RN2 south towards the Somalia border. DECAN Refuge is located approximately 15 km from the city center. Rental prices vary, and it's crucial to carry water and fuel, especially on long trips. Parking is available at the refuge.

Discover more about DECAN Refuge

DECAN Refuge, whose name stands for Découvrir et Aider la Nature (Discover and Help Nature), offers a unique opportunity to witness Djibouti's diverse wildlife in a protected environment. Founded in 2003 by a French veterinarian, Bertrand Lafrance, the refuge spans 30 hectares and serves as a rehabilitation center for animals that have been victims of poaching, habitat loss, or other threats.DECAN is home to a variety of species, including cheetahs, caracals, oryx, porcupines, turtles, baboons, and various bird species. The refuge aims to release animals back into the wild whenever possible, contributing to the restoration of local wildlife populations. For animals that cannot be released, DECAN provides a safe and enriching environment for the remainder of their lives.Visitors to DECAN can observe the animals in naturalistic enclosures and learn about the challenges they face. The refuge also plays an active role in educating the public about the importance of protecting Djibouti's natural heritage. DECAN also runs education programs for customs officers, the police, and school kids. The best time to visit Djibouti is between October and February.