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