LAKE TURKANA & MARSABIT
Lake Turkana, often called The Jade Sea, is the world’s largest permanent desert lake, a vast, iridescent blue-green expanse set in Kenya’s arid northern frontier. This remote region of Marsabit County is a cradle of humanity, a land of ancient traditions, and spectacular, raw geological beauty.
It is a place defined by dramatic contrasts: the freshwater oasis of the lake against volcanic rock and scrubland, and the rich cultural tapestry of its nomadic peoples. It is an adventurous journey into a landscape unlike any other on Earth.
Most Popular Attractions
The Lake Core & Ancient Sites
Sibiloi National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” featuring petrified forests, archaeological sites like Koobi Fora, and diverse palaeontological remains.
Koobi Fora: The globally significant archaeological and palaeontological site where numerous hominid fossils, including Homo habilis and Australopithecus, were discovered by the Leakey family.
Central Island National Park: A volcanic island in the center of Lake Turkana, home to three crater lakes that serve as crucial breeding grounds for Nile crocodiles, fish, and birds.
South Island National Park: A rocky, desolate volcanic island known for its large population of crocodiles and venomous snakes, a remote wilderness accessible only by boat.
Allia Bay: A scenic bay within Sibiloi National Park, offering opportunities for camping and spectacular views of the lake’s jade-colored waters.
Eliye Springs: A palm-fringed oasis on the western shore of Lake Turkana, offering a rare, tranquil beach-like experience and a retreat from the desert heat.
The Jade Sea Waters: Simply sailing or taking a boat ride on the vast, beautiful lake, experiencing the unique jade-green color from the high concentration of blue-green algae.
Volcanic Landscapes & Mountain Oases
Marsabit National Park & Reserve: A magnificent forest ecosystem on an isolated volcanic mountain, featuring three crater lakes (Gofs) and famous for its large tusked elephants (bulls like the legendary Ahmed once lived here).
Gof Bongole: One of the spectacular crater lakes (Gofs) within Marsabit National Park, often visited by wildlife.
Gof Sokorte Guda (The Singing Wells): A large crater lake in Marsabit National Park, often shrouded in mist and vital for the ecosystem.
Marsabit Town: The capital of Marsabit County, situated on the slopes of Mount Marsabit, serving as a key logistical and cultural hub for the region.
Mount Kulal: A large, dormant volcano east of the lake, featuring a unique forest ecosystem and providing breathtaking views over the Chalbi Desert and the lake.
Desert & Cultural Experiences
Chalbi Desert: A vast, shimmering dry lake bed east of Lake Turkana, which transforms into a shallow, temporary lake after heavy rains, offering a stunning, otherworldly landscape.
Loiyangalani Desert Museum (The Turkana Basin Institute Museum): Located near the lake’s eastern shore, it offers insights into the region’s diverse cultures (Turkana, Samburu, El Molo) and its palaeontological significance.
El Molo Bay: Home to the El Molo people, one of Kenya’s smallest ethnic groups, who rely on the lake for survival.
North Horr: A remote oasis and town in the heart of the Chalbi Desert, serving as a critical watering point for nomadic communities.
Maajio and Kalam: Settlements known for their proximity to Lake Turkana and cultural interactions with the local Turkana, Samburu, and Rendille communities.
Nomadic Cultural Centers: Opportunities to interact with the local communities, including the Turkana, Rendille, Samburu, and Gabra, to experience their traditional nomadic way of life, colorful dress, and distinct architecture.
The Turkana and Rendille Bomas: Traditional homesteads made of hides and woven mats that are easily dismantled and moved, reflecting the region’s nomadic traditions.
Activities & Experiences
Visit Sibiloi National Park: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paleontological treasure trove, home to the Koobi Fora fossil site where early hominid remains were discovered.
Take a Boat Trip on Lake Turkana: Experience the ‘Jade Sea’ firsthand, visiting Central Island National Park (a UNESCO site) to see its active volcanoes, caldera lakes, and the world’s largest Nile crocodile breeding ground.
Hike to the Crater Lake of Marsabit: Trek through the lush, misty forests of Marsabit National Park to the beautiful Gof Redo (or Lake Paradise), a hidden crater lake popular for birdwatching.
Experience the Singing Wells of the Borana: Witness the traditional spectacle in Kalacha or similar areas where local tribesmen form human chains to draw water for their livestock while chanting.
Engage in Cultural Immersion with the Turkana/Samburu: Spend time with the local nomadic communities to learn about their distinct way of life, traditional jewelry, and complex social structures.
Go Birdwatching in Marsabit Forest: The dense forest and wetlands are a haven for endemic species, including the rare Marsabit white-eye and other forest birds, offering a striking contrast to the desert plains.
Drive the Chalbi Desert: Cross the dry, stark-white salt pan by 4×4, an otherworldly and often challenging adventure that requires local guidance.
Explore North Horr: Visit this small settlement near the lake, known for its distinct Gabbra community and as a staging post for excursions to the Chalbi Desert.
Spot Wildlife in Marsabit National Park: Look for unique large elephant herds (known for their long tusks), Kudu, and the rare Grevy’s zebra that roam the volcanic landscape.
Capture the Sunrise/Sunset over the Lake: The jade-green waters of Turkana reflecting the sky’s colors provide a spectacular, world-class photographic opportunity, especially from an elevated position.
Camp under the Stars: Due to the extreme remoteness and minimal light pollution, the region offers some of the most stunning stargazing in the world—an unmissable overnight experience.
Local Tips & Transport
4×4 Vehicle is Mandatory: Travel within the subregion is only possible with a reliable, well-maintained, high-clearance 4×4 vehicle. Roads are often just rough tracks, deep sand, or rocky lava fields. Never attempt to drive without a capable vehicle.
Fuel & Supplies: Fuel stations are extremely scarce. Always carry extra jerry cans of fuel, water, and essential spares. Distances are huge, and a breakdown can be very serious.
Air Travel: Flying is the quickest and most comfortable way to access the region. Scheduled or chartered flights land at local airstrips such as Lodwar (for the western side of the lake) or Marsabit town, from which you would still require 4×4 ground transport.
Local Guides: Hiring experienced local guides and drivers is crucial. They are knowledgeable about the routes, local communities, and potential security issues, making them essential for a safe trip.
Travel in Convoy: Especially when traveling near the lake or through the desert, it is highly recommended to travel in a small convoy of at least two vehicles due to the challenging terrain and remoteness.
Security is Paramount: This is a remote and sometimes volatile region. Always check the current security advisories before traveling and only travel with a reputable, informed operator or guide. Never travel off-route without local advice.
Water is Life: Carry significantly more water than you think you need. Dehydration is a major risk due to the extreme heat. The only drinkable water sources are the lodges/camps you may stay at or bottled water you bring.
Cultural Sensitivity: The local communities (Turkana, Samburu, Borana, Gabbra) are proud and traditional. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people or their homesteads, and be prepared to offer a small, respectful monetary gift (sometimes called a “tip” or “gift” by locals) in return.
The Jade Sea: The lake’s distinct green-blue color is caused by the blue-green algae bloom in the water. Do not swim without confirmation from local guides due to the high density of Nile crocodiles and bilharzia risk.
Hidden Gems:
- Loiyangalani Desert Museum: A small but important cultural center near the lake that explains the history, culture, and traditions of the eight communities living in the Lake Turkana Basin.
- The Volcanic Fields: The areas around Teleki’s Volcano and Central Island showcase incredible, raw, and recently active volcanic geology—a testament to the Great Rift Valley’s power.
- Marsabit Town Market: A fascinating melting pot of cultures where different communities from the surrounding areas meet to trade, offering a vibrant look at regional commerce.
Climate & Attire: The Turkana Basin is one of the hottest places in Kenya, with dry, intense heat. Wear light-colored, breathable clothing (long sleeves are best for sun protection), a wide-brimmed hat, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes.
Permits: Ensure you have all necessary permits for the National Parks (Sibiloi, Central Island) and Reserves (Marsabit), which should ideally be arranged in advance by your tour operator.