Sibiloi National Park covers 1,570 square km of wilderness scenic landscape on the shores of Lake Turkana. The park was partially established through the initiative of National Museums of Kenya to protect unique prehistoric and archeological sites some of which are linked to the origin of man. The fossils include a crocodile euthecodon brumpti, giant tortoile petusios broadleyi, elephant elephas recki and the petrified forest. The terrain is lake shore, dry semi desert bush and near desert country. The park is waterless apart from the alkaline waters of the lake.
Climatic conditions – Hot and arid
Major attractions – Origins of Man: Koobi Fora Museum & Research Base; thousands of fossils including giant tortoises; Behemoth, 45ft long Crocodile; Lake Turkana Scenery; shoreline; game viewing.
Wildlife – Birdwatching: More than 350 recorded species including flamingo, pelican and duck. Hippo, crocodile, zebra, Grant’s gazelle, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, topi, greater kudu, lion, cheetah, leopard among other species. The world’s largest Nile crocodile population breeds on Lake Turkana’s Central Island.
Access – Road: The lake is a three day drive from Nairobi via Marsabit and North Horr, or Maralal and South Horr. Alternatively travel by road from Nairobi to Kalokol on the lake’s western shores, via Kitale and Lodwar. From Kalokol boat hire services are available across the lake to Allia Bay. Air: There are two all- weather airstrips.
Accommodation – Lodges and tented camps: Oasis Lodge, Lobolo Tented Camp. KWS self-catering accommodation: Allia Bay Guesthouse. Campsites: Turkana Campsite, Sunset Strip Camp
Best time to visit – All year round
Activities – Game viewing, birding, camping.