Lake Turkana is the world’s largest desert lake found in the Northern Frontier of Kenya. The lake is 7 hectares, 30 meters deep, 290 kilometers at its longest point, and 32 kilometers at its widest point. A huge part of the lake is in Kenya, while only a tiny tip extends to Ethiopia. Although Lake Turkana is famed for its incredible size, given it is in the desert, there is another attraction in the lake. The jade-colored water (greenish-blue) is the result of the algae present in the lake, and this beauty holds the imagination of the visitors that flock to the lake. Swimming below this greenish-blue water’s surface is more than 41 recorded fish species. The prevalent carnivore around the lake is the Nile crocodiles that usually bask in the sun along its sandy beaches.
The island in the lake called Central Islands has small volcanos that are still active. The local communities depend on the lake and its surroundings for their livelihoods. When touring here, you may get the chance to meet the community members from the Samburu, El Molo, Njemps, Rendille, Ariaal, Dassnech, and Gabra tribes. These tribes have adapted to the harsh environment and learned the necessary skills essential for their survival, such as honey and wild fruit gathering, camel and cow farming, and deep lake fishing. The Koobi Fora alone boasts of cutting-edge paleontological science more than any other place in the whole of Africa.
How to get to Lake Turkana
The Lake is located 665km or 424 miles north of Nairobi. The area can be accessed both by air and road. On the southern shore, there is an airstrip that can be accessible by charter flight. Sibiloi also offers chartered flight options. Lodwar, which is on the western side of the lake, has scheduled flights coming in. generally their several routes to the lake. By road, the trip is ideal for 4×4; a convoy is preferred.
Accommodation
Lake Turkana offers a wide range of accommodation to fit your next vacation in Kenya. Different tiers are specifically made to match your budget and to put into consideration your comfort. Below are the lodges and camps that are found in Lake Turkana.
Oasis Lodge- Safari tier 3, ideal for large groups and backpackers. It can accommodate up to 32 guests.
Malabo Resort- Safari tier 3, has 20 rooms, 42 people capacity.
Koros Camp- Safari tier 2, located in the remote valley, the camp has a capacity of 18 guests.
Desert Rose Camp- Safari tier 3, located furthest in the north, can accommodate up to 10 persons.
Eliye Springs Hotel- Safari tier 3, it has 18 rooms where 44 guests can comfortably sleep.
Due to the lake’s remoteness, you may have to travel up to 100kms to find a good lodge or camp in the nearby towns or parks.