Overview

Lake Turkana is located in the northern part of Kenya. It is one of the largest lakes in the desert. It is also the largest alkaline lake. This beautiful lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is in the hottest area in the country. But it is a great destination for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and cultural visits.

Wildlife

Lake Turkana is the perfect destination for viewing crocodiles. These amazing animals are found in plenty on the Central Island in the lake. Over 12,000 crocodiles breed on this Island. The world’s largest nursery is located in this destination. Breeding occurs between April and May on the shores of the crater lakes. Eggs are buried to avoid predators such as raptors and lizards. Babies can be heard making some noises in their eggs. These sounds call the parents who dig the babies out and take them to the edge of the water. Other common reptiles included cobra and saw-scaled viper.

South Island is also home to many crocodiles, hippos, and birds. Sibiloi is the third park on the lake. It is home to north specials. These include Grevy’s zebra, lesser kudu, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and oryx. You may also spot cheetahs, leopards, and lions.

The lake has many species of fish. It has recorded over 60 species. It is also home to many species of birds. Over 350 species have been recorded in the lake. About 23 species breed in the lake. 34 species migrate from Europe and are common between March and May. Preys such as swallow-tailed kites are many in the lake.

Climate

Lake Turkana is located in the driest place in Kenya. It is one of the hottest areas in the country. Daytime temperatures can be as high as 37°C, especially during the dry season. June and July are cooler. This place receives less rainfall. Some areas may not receive rain for several years. You need to carry a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water when visiting Lake Turkana.

Scenery

This protected area has beautiful scenery. The lake itself is a great feature.  It is the largest alkaline lake in the world. It is also the largest permanent lake in the desert in the world. Volcanic rocks surround this spectacular lake. Some of the sheltered areas have bushes and thick grass at some point each year.

Local community

Lake Turkana shares borders with the Turkana people. These are among the indigenous people in Kenya. They are nomadic pastoralists with a beautiful culture. Tourists enjoy their songs and dances. While on Turkana tours, ensure that you interact with these lovely people.

FAQs About Lake Turkana

• Where is Lake Turkana located?

Lake Turkana is located in Turkana county of Kenya. This is in the northern part of the country. The distance to the lake from Nairobi is about 554 km. It is usually a 3-day drive from the largest city of Kenya, Nairobi. Its GPS coordinates are 3.6268° N and 36.0023° E (latitude and longitude).

• Why should I visit Lake Turkana?

Lake Turkana national parks offer the perfect destination for viewing wildlife. You are guaranteed of spotting a hippo, crocodile, and many water birds. You will love the beautiful lake in a desert setting. You will love meeting indigenous communities. You may also enjoy camping at the South Island campsite.

• How do I get to Lake Turkana?

The lake is about 554 km north of Nairobi. You can travel from Nairobi to Lake Turkana by road. Your tour operator will arrange for a great road trip to Turkana. You can also access the lake by air. There are airstrips in the parks.

• When is the best time to visit Lake Turkana?

Unlike other destinations in Kenya, Lake Turkana receives less rainfall. It has a desert climate. So, you can visit at any time of the year. For great photography, you may visit after the rain. The scenery is quite stunning. This is usually between April and November.