Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Turkana County
Turkana County, located in the northwestern region of Kenya, is the second-largest county by land area, covering approximately 66,680 square kilometres. It is a rugged, beautiful, and culturally rich destination with an estimated population of over 850,000 people. As of 2025, it remains one of Kenya’s most untouched and adventurous regions, offering unique landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history lover, or simply seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, here are the top 10 places to explore in Turkana County, thoughtfully restructured and updated for 2025:
1. Lake Turkana
Known as the world’s largest permanent desert lake, Lake Turkana spans approximately 6,405 square kilometers. Also referred to as the “Jade Sea” due to its striking color, the lake is ideal for fishing, swimming, boat rides, and other water activities. It supports rich aquatic biodiversity and is a lifeline for surrounding communities.
2. Central Island National Park
Located right in the heart of Lake Turkana, this volcanic island is famed for its three crater lakes, each with its own ecological character: one filled with crocodiles, another with flamingos, and the third with tilapia. The climb to the island’s highest peak takes about an hour, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. Central Island is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its ecological importance.
3. Eliye Springs
Approximately 50 km from Lodwar, Eliye Springs is a scenic resort destination featuring palm-fringed beaches, luxury lodges, campsites, and a massive sand dune that offers stunning views over Lake Turkana. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation, swimming, and sunset photography.
4. South Turkana National Reserve
One of Kenya’s lesser-known reserves, South Turkana is a remote and wild landscape dotted with tall termite mounds, mountains, and rolling plains. It is home to wildlife such as elephants, lions, oryx, gazelles, warthogs, hyenas, and more than 300 bird species. This park offers a real wilderness experience for safari lovers.
5. Nariokotome (Turkana Boy) Monument
This prehistoric site, located near the lake’s western shores, marks where the world-famous Turkana Boy fossil was discovered in 1984 by Kamoya Kimeu. A monument and life-sized replica commemorate this significant archaeological find, believed to be nearly 1.6 million years old. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and paleoanthropology enthusiasts.
6. Ferguson Gulf
Situated south of Kalokol, Ferguson Gulf is a shallow bay separated from the main lake by a narrow sandy ridge lined with palm trees. The area attracts large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, yellow-billed storks, and local fishermen. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, fishing, and scenic boat rides.
7. Kapedo Hot Waterfalls
Located near the Turkana-Baringo border, Kapedo features two naturally boiling waterfalls that feed into the Suguta River. The surrounding landscape is defined by Tiati Hills to the west and the Silali Volcano to the east, making this a stunning location for photography and nature walks.
8. Lobolo Swamp
About 20 km north of Eliye Springs, Lobolo Swamp combines dunes, palm trees, and a lush lagoon to create a peaceful habitat teeming with birdlife. Flamingos, ducks, and other wetland birds are frequently spotted, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
9. Lokori Standing Stones
A mysterious archaeological site, the Lokori Standing Stones feature circular stone arrangements and nearby rock engravings. Believed to be ancient ceremonial or ritual sites, this area offers a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the Turkana people.
10. Kalokol Standing Stones
This lesser-known site includes a cluster of cylindrical stones believed to hold spiritual significance for local communities. It’s ideal for travelers interested in archaeology, cultural heritage, and off-grid exploration.
Additional Tips for Visiting Turkana County
- Best Time to Visit: June to September and December to February (dry season for easier travel and wildlife spotting).
- Getting There: Flights to Lodwar or road trips from Kitale via Kapenguria. Be prepared for long distances and limited infrastructure.
- Travel Caution: Always check with local authorities or tour guides regarding road safety and weather conditions, especially during the rainy season.
- Local Culture: Turkana County is rich in culture. Respect local customs, and if possible, visit a traditional Turkana manyatta for an authentic cultural experience.
Final Thoughts
Turkana County is a land of dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and resilient cultures. These ten destinations provide a unique mix of natural beauty, archaeological significance, and cultural richness, making Turkana one of the most exciting regions to explore in Kenya.
READ MORE: South Island National Park Entrance Fees
