Imagine a place where the desert landscape meets the majestic Lake Turkana, also known as the Jade Sea due to its striking greenish-blue color. Located in the northern part of Kenya, this region is not only a haven for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path travel experience but also a site of significant cultural and archaeological importance.
As you explore this unique destination, you’ll encounter a diverse array of attractions, from volcanic islands to traditional communities. Turkana is redefining its role as a major tourist destination, offering an authentic travel experience that diverges from the typical safari circuits. Known as the “Cradle of Mankind” due to its significant archaeological findings, this area promises an experience unlike any other.
You’ll be immersed in a world where the people and the place come together to create an unforgettable journey. Get ready to explore the lake and its surroundings, and discover why Turkana is a must-visit for adventurous travelers.
Discovering the Untamed Beauty of Turkana
As you venture into Turkana, Kenya, you’ll discover a world that’s both harsh and beautiful. This vast and remote region is a treasure trove of unique experiences, waiting to be explored.
Where is Turkana Located?
Turkana is situated in Kenya’s Northern Frontier, bordering Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This strategic location makes it a crossroads of East African cultures. Turkana County is Kenya’s second-largest county, covering an impressive 77,000 square kilometers, with Lake Turkana forming its eastern border.
Why Visit This Remote Kenyan Region
Turkana offers a unique blend of landscape and culture. The region is home to numerous archaeological sites that have yielded fossils crucial to understanding human evolution, earning it the title of the “Cradle of Mankind.” Visitors can experience one of Africa’s last truly wild frontiers, encounter traditional cultures that have remained largely unchanged for centuries, and enjoy the stark beauty of Turkana’s desert landscape contrasted with the vast expanse of Lake Turkana, creating photographic opportunities unlike anywhere else in East Africa. Despite being one of Kenya’s least densely populated regions, Turkana offers rich cultural experiences with indigenous communities, making it a compelling destination for adventurous travelers.
Explore Central Island National Park
As you step onto the shores of Central Island National Park, you’ll be immersed in a world of vibrant birdlife and striking volcanic landscapes. This national park, situated in the middle of Lake Turkana, is a unique protected area that is accessible only by boat, typically a 1.5 to 2 hour ride from Kalokol beach.
The Three Crater Lakes
The island is renowned for its three distinct crater lakes: Flamingo Lake, Tilapia Lake, and Crocodile Lake. The latter is reputed to have the highest density of crocodiles in the world. These lakes are not only a haven for wildlife but also support a rich biodiversity.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The Central Island is teeming with life, despite being surrounded by an arid landscape. It is home to hundreds of species of birds, including 84 water bird species, 34 of which are migratory. The island serves as an important flyway passage and stopover for migrant birds from northern Asia and Europe, supported by the plankton masses in the lake. Visitors can witness huge colonies of nesting egrets, storks, cormorants, and tens of thousands of flamingos.
The island offers numerous walking trails, allowing visitors to explore on foot and hike to the highest elevation for sweeping views of the crater lakes and Lake Turkana. This makes Central Island National Park a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, boasting one of the world largest concentrations of certain wildlife species.
Relax at Eliye Springs Beach
Escape to Eliye Springs Beach, a tranquil oasis on the shores of Lake Turkana. This idyllic retreat offers expansive stretches of deserted sandy beaches, fringed by palm groves, and lapped by the warm waters of Lake Turkana.
Swimming in Lake Turkana
Swim in the inviting waters of Lake Turkana, which are said to have remedial qualities. The unique experience of swimming in the world’s largest permanent desert lake, with its distinctive jade-colored waters, creates a surreal swimming environment.
Stargazing on the Beach
As night falls, savor the beautiful views of the stars twinkling above. The remote location and minimal light pollution at Eliye Springs create perfect conditions for stargazing. Spend your time under the sky, transformed into a vast canvas of indigo, blue, purple, and black hues resplendent with stars and shooting stars.
Eliye Springs Beach is not just a place to relax; it’s an experience that connects you to nature. Enjoy the excellent food, including fresh fish from the lake and locally raised chicken and goat, adding to the authentic experience of this remote Kenyan region.
Visit the Historic Kenyatta House
Located in Turkana, the Kenyatta House is a poignant reminder of Kenya’s journey to independence. This historic site served as a detention camp for five of the Kapenguria Six, including Jomo Kenyatta, who later became Kenya’s first president.
The Kenyatta House is a significant historical landmark that played a crucial role in Kenya’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule. You can expect to see exhibitions, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of the independence struggle.
The Significance in Kenya’s Independence
The house was used as a detention camp for Jomo Kenyatta and other key figures in the independence movement. Kenyatta remained in prison until 1959, when he was detained in Lodwar under house arrest for two years. This period was significant in Kenya’s history as it marked the final years of the struggle for independence.
Visiting the Kenyatta House is an emotional experience that provides insight into Kenya’s journey to freedom. The house has been preserved as a historical site to educate visitors about this important period in Kenya’s history. You will spend a meaningful time at this place, reflecting on the sacrifices made by the Kapenguria Six.
Over the years, the Kenyatta House has become a significant site for Kenyans and history enthusiasts alike. It is a must-visit destination when in Turkana, offering a unique perspective on Kenya’s history.
Marvel at Namoratunga Standing Stones
In the vast expanse of Turkana lies the enigmatic Namoratunga Standing Stones, a site that beckons curiosity and wonder. Located approximately 15km southwest of Kalokol, this archaeological site is one of East Africa’s most intriguing attractions.
The Archaeological Significance
The Namoratunga Standing Stones, also known as the Dancing Stones, consist of a small cluster of cylindrical stones positioned vertically, resembling sacks of charcoal from a distance. This similarity makes them easy to miss, despite being close to the road. Archaeologists believe that this site may have functioned as an ancient stellar observatory, drawing parallels with the more famous Stonehenge, albeit on a smaller scale.
Cultural Importance to the Turkana People
To the Turkana people, Namoratunga remains a sacred place, serving as a spiritual focus and the venue for a major annual gathering of Turkana clans. This site is not just a relic of the past; it continues to play a vital role in the local culture, offering a unique opportunity to witness both archaeological heritage and living cultural traditions in one location.
Visiting Namoratunga provides a chance to explore its archaeological significance and understand its importance to the local community. For the best experience, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for optimal photography conditions. Local guides are available to provide insights into the cultural context, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this remarkable site.
Explore South Turkana National Reserve
As one of Kenya’s lesser-known national reserves, South Turkana offers a truly unique safari experience. The reserve is characterized by its vast expanse of harsh brown terrain, which, despite being hotter than most Kenyan reserves, is teeming with diverse wildlife. You can expect to see a variety of animals, including elephant, gazelle, warthog, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, leopard, hyena, and various bird species.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The South Turkana National Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The reserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Kori bustard, which occurs in higher numbers here than anywhere else in Kenya, making it the park’s unofficial mascot. The wildlife viewing opportunities are exceptional, with the vastness and purity of the landscape ensuring that every visit is a unique experience.
Climbing Kailongol Mountain
For the more adventurous, Kailongol Mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding climb. At 2,067m, it is one of the highest points in the region and can be climbed on foot. However, be prepared to camp on the mountain as there are no regular tracks, and the climb involves navigating through dense shoulder-high thickets. The salty springs on the eastern side of the mountain attract both local herdsmen and wildlife, creating unique viewing opportunities.
You can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Mtelo and Mount Nasolot in the west. The vastness and purity of the South Turkana landscape make every visit a unique experience.
Experience Local Culture in Kalokol
Kalokol is a hidden gem on Lake Turkana’s edge, offering a unique cultural experience. As you visit this vibrant fishing town, you’ll be surrounded by the traditional way of life of the Turkana people.
The Fishing Industry
The fishing industry is the backbone of Kalokol’s economy, providing employment for many local people. The town has grown significantly in recent years due to its robust industry, with the catch being sold fresh, dried, or processed and then transported to distant markets such as Eastern D.R. Congo and Rwanda.
Traditional Turkana Way of Life
In Kalokol, you can observe the traditional Turkana way of life, including their unique dress, housing structures, and daily activities. Visitors can participate in cultural experiences such as visiting local markets, interacting with people, or learning about traditional crafts, making for a memorable experience in this town on Lake Turkana.
Witness the Beauty of Ferguson Bay
As you venture south of Kalokol, the breathtaking Ferguson Bay awaits, teeming with life and natural beauty. This vast landscape of mud flats and salt swamps along Lake Turkana’s shore creates a unique ecosystem.
Bird Watching Paradise
Ferguson Bay is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with myriads of pelicans and flamingos making it a paradise. The bay’s diverse avifauna includes various water birds, making it an ideal spot for bird watching. To make the most of your experience, visit during early morning or late evening when the birds are most active.
Spectacular Sunrises and Sunsets
Witnessing the sunrise or sunset at Ferguson Bay is a visual treat. The changing colors of the sky illuminate the surroundings, creating a magical ambiance. The lake‘s waters gently lap against the beach, adding to the serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect moment for photography, capturing the beauty of nature.
Discover Nariokotome Archaeological Site
The Nariokotome Archaeological Site, situated near the shores of Lake Turkana, is a site of immense archaeological importance. Located a couple of kilometers inland from the lake, off the southeastern tip of the Lapurr Range, it is famous for the discovery of the Turkana Boy.
The Famous Turkana Boy
The Turkana Boy is a nearly complete skeleton of African Homo erectus dating back approximately 1.5 million years. This discovery has significantly contributed to our understanding of human evolution. The site offers more than just archaeological finds; it boasts natural beauty, including a small lagoon on the beach where flamingos and other waterfowl feed. You get an exceptionally good view of Northern Island from here.
Visit the Catholic Mission Station
On a small ridge towards the Lapurr Range lies the Catholic mission station of Nariokotome, often referred to as ‘Little Spain.’ The missionaries are experimenting with growing dates, olives, wine, and even coconuts in this arid environment. You can visit the mission by diverting from the main road. The church features a window behind the altar that permits a view of the lake. The church’s bell bears inscriptions in four languages: Turkana, Kiswahili, English, and German.
Turkana, Kenya: Best Things to Do for Adventure Seekers
If you’re looking for adventure, Turkana, Kenya, is the perfect destination, with its rugged landscape and vast opportunities for exploration. The region offers a range of activities that cater to different interests and adrenaline levels.
Hiking the Hills Around Lodwar
The hills around Lodwar offer a great hiking experience with relatively easy trails and staircases leading to the top. At the summit, you’ll find an impressive statue reminiscent of Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, offering a unique cultural landmark. The panoramic views of Lodwar town and its environs are breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Boat Trips on Lake Turkana
Embark on a thrilling boat trip on Lake Turkana, exploring remote shores and islands. The experience is surreal, with jade-colored waters contrasting against the arid desert landscape. You can choose from short excursions to longer safari-style journeys, making it an ideal adventure for those seeking to explore the region’s natural beauty.
For adventure seekers, it’s essential to be prepared with the right equipment, local guides, and safety considerations. The best season for adventure activities in Turkana is during the dry months, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Planning Your Trip to Turkana
To make the most of your travel experience in Turkana, Kenya, proper planning is key. Ensuring a smooth journey involves understanding your transportation options and the best time to visit.
How to Get There
Reaching Turkana can be achieved through various means. The most convenient way is by taking daily flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Lodwar, with Silverstone Air being a recommended carrier. Alternatively, you can embark on a road journey from Nairobi through the Rift Valley to Turkana County, passing through Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, and Lake Baringo, which offer plenty of attractions along the way.
- Daily flights from Wilson Airport to Lodwar with carriers like Silverstone Air.
- A road journey through the Rift Valley, stopping at attractions like Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, and Lake Baringo.
- Breaking up the road journey with an overnight stay at Lake Baringo before continuing on the new tarmac road between Loruk and Nginyang.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Turkana depends on the weather. Although the region is generally hot throughout the year, certain months offer more comfortable conditions for a safari adventure. Consider booking a travel package that includes a tailored itinerary designed by specialists to make the most of your trip.
When planning your trip, it’s also essential to consider the road conditions and the level of service provided by your chosen travel or tour company.
Conclusion
As one of East Africa’s last true frontiers, Turkana beckons the intrepid traveler to explore its uncharted territories and experience the raw beauty of Africa. Turkana, Kenya, offers a unique safari experience that diverges from the typical Kenyan circuits, with its world’s largest desert lake, Lake Turkana, being a major draw.
The region’s extraordinary beauty, rich culture, and archaeological significance make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences. You can relax on the shores of Lake Turkana under star-filled skies, hike mountains, or explore volcanic islands like Central Island National Park.
As you visit Turkana, you’ll witness traditional ways of life that have remained largely unchanged among the Turkana people. While traveling to this remote area can be challenging, the rewards in terms of authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes far outweigh any difficulties. To ensure a positive impact, practice responsible tourism by respecting local communities and fragile ecosystems.
With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscape, and rich cultural heritage, Turkana is a destination that offers the kind of transformative travel experiences that are increasingly rare in our interconnected world. Add Turkana to your travel bucket list and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
