DECAN Wildlife Refuge
A refuge outside Djibouti City taking in cheetahs and other confiscated animals.
Updated 3 September 2026
DECAN is a refuge outside Djibouti City set up by a French veterinarian to take in animals confiscated from the wildlife trade, which in this part of the Horn means cheetah cubs above all, taken from the wild and moved through the region toward buyers. Cheetahs, caracals, hyena, ostrich, oryx and tortoises live in large enclosures on the site, most of them unable to be returned to the wild.
What's there
- The cheetahs - animals confiscated from the trade and unable to be released.
- The other rescues - caracal, hyena, oryx and tortoises on the site.
- The large enclosures - the space the animals are kept in.
- The trade context - what the refuge exists to respond to.
When to go
November to March is the cool season. The refuge keeps set hours and is closed on some days. Mornings are cooler and the animals more active.
Things to know
It is a rescue centre, not a zoo or a wildlife park, and the animals are there because they cannot be released. Facilities are basic. Opening hours are limited and worth confirming.
Nearby
Djibouti City is north, and Arta is southwest.
What to pack for DECAN Wildlife Refuge
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Binoculars - The single best wildlife tool - even a compact pair transforms a sighting. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- A zoom camera or long lens - Animals rarely come close; reach beats megapixels. Find on Amazon
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Where to start if DECAN Wildlife Refuge is going on the list.
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
