Lake Turkana
RegionUNESCO World Heritage

Lake Turkana

Kenya 6,405 km² (2,473 mi²)

About Lake Turkana

Lake Turkana, the world's largest permanent desert lake, is one of Earth's most extraordinary natural wonders. Known as the Jade Sea for its stunning turquoise-green colour caused by algae, this vast alkaline lake stretches 250 kilometres through Kenya's remote northern frontier, where the landscape resembles another planet entirely. The lake and its environs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing Sibiloi National Park, South Island, and Central Island — all volcanic. This is where some of the world's most important hominid fossils have been discovered, including Turkana Boy. The lake supports the world's largest population of Nile crocodiles and is a critical stopover for migratory birds. Reaching Turkana is an expedition in itself, traversing the Chalbi Desert and Suguta Valley.

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Safari Tours

3.8

Avg Rating

Highlights

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site — world's largest permanent desert lake
  • Otherworldly jade-green landscapes unlike anywhere else in Kenya
  • Cradle of Mankind — major hominid fossil discoveries
  • World's largest Nile crocodile population at Central Island
  • Ultimate frontier adventure for experienced travellers

Considerations

  • Extremely remote — multi-day expedition to reach by road
  • Extreme heat — one of the hottest inhabited places on Earth
  • Minimal infrastructure and very limited accommodation
  • Persistent strong winds make boat crossings unpredictable

Wildlife

Big Five Status

🦁

Lion

Not present

🐆

Leopard

Not present

🐘

Elephant

Not present

🦬

Buffalo

Not present

🦏

Rhino

Not present

Notable Species

Zebra

Occasional

Gemsbok

Occasional

Fish Eagle

Common

Crocodile

Common

Monitor Lizard

Common

Common Occasional Rare

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal

Climate Overview

Getting There

Lake Turkana is extremely remote, approximately 750 km (12+ hours) from Nairobi. Most visitors fly to Loiyangalani or Loyangalani from Nairobi (2-3 hours). Overland routes via Marsabit or the Suguta Valley are multi-day adventures requiring 4x4 vehicles and full expedition gear.

Nearest Airport

Loiyangalani Airstrip

Nearest City

Loiyangalani

Drive Time

12 hours