Marsabit National Reserve covers an area of 1,500 square km and consists of a forested mountain that rises like an oasis in the middle of the desert wilderness and is the only source of permanent surface water in the region. The reserve has three spectacular crater lakes that provide habitat for a variety of birdlife. One of the lakes, Lake
Paradise, is most scenic and famous from early films and writings of Martin Johnson and Vivien de Wattville. Marsabit reserve is also well known because of large elephants like the famous Ahmed, an elephant that was provided with a 24 hour protection by a presidential order. Ahmed, who boasted some of the biggest tusks ever recorded, died at age 55, and his body was preserved and is now on display in Nairobi National Museum.
Climatic conditions – January to March is hot and dry, April to June is hot and wet, July to October is warm and dry, November and December are warm and wet.
Major Attractions – Pristine forest, scenic landscape and wilderness, crater lakes, diverse local cultures
Wildlife – Elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, greater kudu, hyena, aardwolf, caracal, klipspringer, Grant’s gazelle, oryx, and reticulated giraffe. Diverse birdlife.
Access – By Road: 560 km north of Nairobi, 263 km north of Isiolo. By Air: The park is located two and half hours by air from Nairobi and is served by a tarmac airstrip located 1 km from Marsabit town centre.
Accommodation – Lodges
Best time to visit – All year round
Activities – Game viewing, bird watching