Lamu – a peaceful tropical island
Lamu is a wonder world of its own! It is a peaceful and calm tropical island on which life is lived at a very relaxed rhythm although a destination whose history is mysterious and mesmerizing as its winding streets in the medieval stone-town
The island has stunning rising and falling dunes plus endless beautiful beaches, together with small villages nested in the mango and the coconut plantations, and not to forget are the lateen-sailed dhows that ply on the waters.
Lamu Old Town

The bona fide attraction of Lamu is its old town. The life of Lamu started way back in the fourteenth century with the Swahili settlement. With time the island received several visitors among which were the Portuguese explorers, Omani Arabs and the Turkish Traders.
All the different visitors each left their landmark, although Lamu managed to come up with its own culture which finally managed to endure for generations.
The narrow streets running through Lamu still stand unchanged for centuries and the livelihood of the lifestyle in the squares and market places is at the similar pace as it was ages before. Surprisingly, this island and the dominating means of transport are donkeys and dhows.
The residents of Lamu town greatly believe in their customs and tradition and are a strongly built people who have grown basing and highly respecting their past traditions.
For those traveling Kenya, Lamu offers a very exciting and enjoyable exotic experience that is spiced up the welcoming and hospitable mind-set of the local people.
Visiting Lamu is more like entering a world of your own and many visitors have found themselves being part of this wonderful world. Generally life on Lamu is slow, the days are long and spent leisurely walking
The available dhow safaris take you far past Lamu to the neighboring archipelago on which isolated villages, a few counted luxurious resorts and ancient ruins are all hidden in the islands of Kiwayu, Siyu, Manda and Pate.
The peaceful island will definitely not only speak to your very heart but your soul too. The trip will give you an opportunity to pleasure in a romantic experience that will certainly become unforgettable even after leaving this place.
Majority of the visitors who come to Lamu major come to enjoy and experience the exceptional history and culture on this island. Fortunately there are aseveral opportunities to explore the wildlife residing there.
The wetland and the palm tree forested areas on the island are perfect places in which you can view the coastal waterfowl in addition to other types of birds. In addition, on the water shores and the lining beaches are several crabs that can be viewed which are usually brimming in the sand.
The arid mainland laying on the opposite side of Lamu is surprisingly overflowing with a diversity of wildlife particularly in the Dodori Reserve and among them leopards, buffaloes and lions.
Furthermore, the mangrove channels are very ideal for birding and watching crocodiles once in a while. Trips can always be organized to this place from Kipungani found in Lamu.
Lamu – Accommodation
There is a wide variety of accommodation facilities in Lamu within the heart of the town and in its outskirts and even on the adjacent Kiwaaya Island and the Manda Island. Available are up to date hotels, stunningly decorated ancient Swahili guesthouses, private houses for rent, isolated resorts and basin inns.

South Coast – a tropical paradise of palm fringed white sand beaches
The coastline on southern Mombasa is a beautiful paradise characterized by white sandy beaches and palm trees, and it is here that the turquoise waters of the vast Indian Ocean finally meet among the stunning coral reefs. The sheltering reefs have formed beautiful beaches with very calm, attractive and so inviting waters.
The long days are characterized by sunshine while the nights are warm and clement with gentle and very pleasant sea breezes. The corals off the shore are vivid with dolphins, corals, myriad fish and sea turtles.
The onshore and offshore reef walls provide top-notch diving spots with spectacular drop offs plus coral gardens. A Marine Reserve has been setup around the stunning Wasini Island in Mpunguti and this destination is ideal for divers plus snorkelers.
Verdant coastal rainforests surround the beaches and in them are a variety of wildlife such as baboons, leopards, uncommon colobus monkeys and several types of birds.
There are several top-notch resorts majorly on Diani Beach which give visitors the opportunity to relax and enjoy this immaculate paradise in the most comfy accommodation facilities with good services and well done cuisines.
The southern coast also has several small and quiet getaways like Tiwi Beach is perfect for those traveling in search for quiet holiday breaks. Moving inland, the fertile surrounding area of Kwale District is characterized by small villages in which the Duruma, Wakamab and the Digo tribes live.
Moving further south you will find the Shimoni little fishing village in which are several mysterious and deep coastal caves that extend from the sea deep into the neighboring Jungles.
In the ancient days, these particular caves were used as a safe haven for explores, dhow sailors and Arab slavers.
Regardless of searching for a place to unwind and fully let lose in the peaceful environment or looking for a place to enthusiastically explore, then the southern coast of Kenya should be the ideal place to visit.
Driving your personal car or a hired car through the southern coat is quite very easy. There are several buses plus matatus that operate along the south coastal strip. Fortunately the majority of the hotels will offer you with shuttles or private vehicles to take you around for an agreed price.
Some of the renown and very luxurious hotels along the southern coast are: Neptune Paradise Village which is 25miles from the heart of Mombasa, Sheshe Baharini Beach Hotel; a four star paradise on one of Kenya’s isolated islands, Shimba Hill Lodge; situated in the chilly rainforest of Shimba Hill, The Sands at Nomad Hotel; fronted by the unspoikt white sand and the clear sea.

Malindi, Kenya
Malindi is a small town located in the heart of a strip of isolated tropical beaches that offers its visitors a variety of top-notch resorts plus quiet and very soothing hideouts.
Traveling further south you will find the dull Watamu village with its frontal expanse covered by white sand beaches.
This calm and very peaceful village is a haven to many top-class resorts and several privately managed guesthouses all spread out through the woodland bordering the deserted shore.
A marine Nationa Park was established in Watamu and it is very perfect for day trips for particularly snorkelers and divers.
Furthermore the North West part of Malindi is very scenic with the beautiful Marafa Depression which is locally referred to as ‘Hell’s Kitchen’. An extended chain of sheer gullies and sandstone gorges cover the entire terrain of this place and have transformed it into one of the local myths.
The chunky jungles in Arabuko Sokoke Forest reserve have concealed several wonders of the world. The chilly trails in the forest will lead you to various parts as you look for the uncommon endemic bird species and mammals. You will also have the opportunity to visit the large herds of elephants.
The forest additionally houses the lost mysterious Gedi town. This is an abandoned once Swahili trading town hidden in the heart of the forest jungles. The winding passages, streets and collapsing walls tell a lot about the ancient mysterious past of this place.
You will trek through the forest, dive on the wonderful reefs, explore by boat the mangroves or try your skills as you fish and view the large game. Touring the northern coastal area will give you the opportunity to enjoy these and so much more all in a very spacious and attractive place that allow you to rest and cool off after r a day’s activity.
Getting Around Malindi and Watamu

Mombasa is the getaway on the northern coast despites some tourists preferring to tacke direct flights to Malindi. The coastal highway extends north up to Mombasa all through to the northern frontier of Kenya. It is very easy and possible to privately drive your car or one that is hired to Malindi.
Busses plus matatus frequently ferry people along the northern coast. Majority of the resorts plus hotels in this region have private shuttles and can even arrange vehicles to transfer you. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi for an agreed fare to transport you to the beaches on the northern coast.
Furthermore there are daily flights all the way to Lamu, Mombasa and Nairobi from Malindi airport. Fortunately the airport also operates private charters.
Despite the northern coastal highway being frequently serviced by Matatus & Buses, the northern part of Malindi is less services. Taxis are available in many towns, resorts or hotels.

Lake Nakuru offers tourist one among the most scenic views in the whole of Kenya. Hundreds and hundreds of Flamingoes grouped into large flocks are seen on the shores of Lake Nakuru a soda lake! A thumping pink wrap of life covers the water giving a very colorful sight of flamingoes.
Lake Nakuru has internationally become famous for its overwhelming bird population that majorly trip at the lake to feed on the algae found on the bed of the lake. The birds keep moving to and fro the lake to feed and once in a while fly into the sky to form a pink ‘cloud’ cover.
The area has several species of birds, warthogs and baboons in addition to other types of large mammals.
The lake is enormously uneven in size varying from 5sq.km to 30 sq kilometers in area. this lake with no outlet has become very famous because of its national park renowned for the rich diversity of birdlife with approximately 490 different species and majorly are the large Lesser Flamingo flocks.
Nakuru is a Masai word which means ‘dusty place’. Back in 1961 Lake Nakuru National Park was establish just adjacent to Nakuru town. The park started very small in size comprising of the lake and part of the surrounding mountains; but with time it has expanded in size to cover most of the savannahs.
It is the chief national park in the country and a very significant haven for the Rhinos. In this park you will find both black rhinos and the white rhinos which are commonly seen relaxing beneath the acacia trees by the shore of the lake.
The park well thrives with the resident game. There are large herds of zebras, endangered Rothschild-Giraffes, waterbucks and buffalos plus many other animals.
In this park you will get the great opportunity to view leopards in this country in addition to huge lion prides.
Remember the best view points in this area include Out of Africa, Lion Hill and Baboon Cliff. In addition to the rich birdlife and game, you can always visit the waterfalls found at Makalia and the drive through the exceptional flora cover.
Traveling beyond Lake Nakuru is quite a rewarding experience as you will be able to view the various waterfalls, forests and cliffs in addition to other very attractive features. Adjacent to the town of Nakuru is a very vivid and busy local center with a very a lively market.
Important of all is that Nakuru town is a local transport & travel center.
Travelers spending the night in this area can also receive the best accommodation facilities with world-class services from either Savora Lion Game Lodge or Hotel Waterbuck at very affordable prices that will definitely suit your financial budget.
You can access Nakuru by either air or raod transport. You can use your private vehicle, hire an open topped vehicle or use public transport. It is approximately 150Km from Nairobi in the northwest. Alternatively using a chartered flight you can reach Naishi airstrip.

Situated in the volcanic region of the wild north 260 kilometers from the capital city Nairobi is the shallow two meters deep Lake Bogaria. The lake lies in the very centre of the arid landscape within the shadows of the impressive Siracho Range walls.
The major physical features soroounding the lake include the Kesubo Swamp in the north plus the Siracho escarpment found in the east, and both features are located within the reserve.
Similar to Lake Nakuru, Lake Magadi and Lake Elementeite, Lake Bogoria has one of the largest populations of the Lesser Flamingos in the whole world. The alkaline waters of this shallow lake have attracted large flocks of lasers flamingos that cover the shore with a characteristic ‘blanket’. The 34 kilometer long and 3.5 kilometer wide lake is up to date still volcanically active. The lake is renowned for its spouting geysers, hot springs and spurting steams that line its western shore. The springs with fresh water at the rim of the lake have also greatly attracted hundreds and hundreds of wild animals and birds.
The major attractions in this area include the National Reserve that was established in November 1973, the beautiful hills characterized by riverine forests, dry bushes and grassland, the shallow waters dotted with hundreds of flamingos that color the lake, the sudden rise of the Laikipi Escarpment which is about 600 meters high and the deep gap that spits sulphur water that steams in the area.
Additionally, the lake is a haven to numerous Fish Eagles which usually feed on the resident lesser flamingos. Furthermore, Zebras, the great Kudu, Gazelles and baboons line the lake shore as they come to drink and cool off in the waters.
Lake Bogoria – located at the start of the Northern Wilderness of Kenya.
Accommodation in this area is quite varied at very affordable rates that will suit in everyone’s budget. The facilities range from camping sites to posh hotels such as Lake Bogoria Hotel which exceptionally offers a hoot-water pool, the adjacent Papyrus Inn and the Papyrus Annex plus many others that offer professional services.
Getting Around –
One can reach Lake Bogaria by making a diversion from Nakuru-Baringo Road through Marigat; it requires private transport. Also a standard airstrip is available and it is used my charter planes. Reaching the lake is quite challenging without availability of private transport. For that reason it is recommended that you visit this place as a safari group or you hire a private vehicle.

Lake Naivasha is stunning fresh water late located northwest of the capital Nairobi just on the outskirts of Naivasha town and is a section of the great East African Rift Valley. The freshwater lake is surrounded by very thick papyrus. It is approximately 13km wide with very shallow waters of close to six meters deep.
The size of the lake greatly varies depending on the amounts of rainfall which ranges averagely between 114 to 991 sq. kilometers. At the start of the twentieth century, Lake NAivasha dried up completely and disappeared.
The farmland that resulted from the lake’s disappearance was cultivated not until heavy rains were received again that later rejuvenated the lake flooding and consuming the then established farms. in the afternoon, the lake suddenly becomes vigorous due to the afternoon storms and strong winds that cause high energetic waves.
Because of that, the local resident Masai people named the lake as Lake Nai’posha to mean ‘rough water’ but years later the British misspell it as Naivasha.
The lake together with the surroundings are all naturally gifted, and have very fertile soils and plentiful water supply which have transformed this place into a very prime agricultural area in Kenya. The biggest part of the lake is neighbored by forests with Acacia Xanthophlea barked in yellow referred to as Yellow Fever tree.
The forest has a rich diversity of birdlife and worldwide the Naivasha region is known to be an international birding destination.
The waters of Lake Naivasha have greatly attracted hundreds of wildlife to the shore.Giraffes are seen strolling in the acacia trees, colobus monkeys heard calling in the high forest canopy and buffalos cooling off in the adjacent swamps whereas the large hippos leisurely sleep all day in the lake’s shallows.
The expanse neighboring the lake is another place worth exploring. It has two smaller lakes which are Lake Oloidien and Lake Sonachi a Crater Lake light green in Color.
Additionally you will not fail to notice Hell’s Gate National Park which lies adjacent to the lake.
This particular park was christened because of its huge red tinged pair of cliffs that framed a geothemically energetic interior with steam vents plus bubbling springs. This park also hold a large number of wildlife and birds in its plains.
People are free to walk, trek, bike and even climb in this area. there are several boat trips on the stunning lake just to give you the perfect way to spend your morning and afternoons.
This area hass breathe taking sunsets that are even made better by the poignant sound of the fish Eagle calling out loudly over the lake to give the day a perfect ending.
Getting Around
To directly reach Naivasha by road is through use of private vehicles, busses or suing matatus. The major highway extends from Naivasha to Nakuru.
It is just one hour drive from Nairobi to Nakuru. Charter flights can also be taken to Nakuru with an airstrip in Nakuru to service them. Additionally, a few of the hotels and guest houses have their own private airstrips.
Several lodges plus hotels can properly organize for your transportation from Nairobi to Naivasha. And the most attractive and exhilarating destinations in Naivasha are found on the outskirts of the town surrounding the lake shore.
Naivasha town has taxis that ferry people, although the best way to full explore this area is using a private vehicle. Fortunately several hotels plus lodges usually arrange local tours.

In the very center of the Masai land in southern Kenya is the outrageous Lake Magadi the 2nd biggest source of Sodium Carbonate in the whole world. The alkaline lake is entirely bordered by natural large salt flats. This lake is the south most among the rift valley lake s in Kenya.
The scorching hot plains do prevent animals from reaching the centrally located alkaline lake. This has seen thousands of pink flamingos annually descend on the high mud mounds on the rim of the lake which are free from any predators. The freshwater springs have been a major attraction for several types of birds.
During the dry season, the water levels drop and 80% of the lake is covered with soda. The close to 100 sq. kilometer lake is located in a graben and is a good example of saline pans. Actually you will discover that some parts of the lake have the salt as thick as 40 meters thick.
In the wet season a very small brine layer covers the largest part of the saline pan which later evaporates spontaneously leaving a large are of white salt that eventually cracks to form vast polygon.
Surprisingly, Lake Magadi was never for eternity saline. Very many years ago, this Magadi basin had freshwater with a lot of fish and within the Top Magadi Beds some of their remains are well preserved there among which are also sediments of lacustrine plus volcaniclastic.
Magadi town is located on the eastern shore of the lake and it also houses a factory that manufactures soda ash which is used for several industrial purposes. The factory is referred to as Magadi Soda factory and starting in December 2005, the factory is owned and managed by the Tata India.

When you travel to Magadi, it feels like you are moving into a new world. The sweltering salty plains extend to the horizon of gleaming heat miasma, and the shallow waters of the lake are congested with flamingos that give it a characteristic ‘blanket’ cover. The rest of the terrain is shimmering with heat that has left the area so isolated. This place is the ultimate destination for most walks that start from Loita Hills or Nguruman escarpment. Trekkers can ascend to 1000m into the cool highlands of Nairobi the capital city leaving behind the Magadi’s shimmering heat.
Lake Magadi has featured in the movie ‘The Constant Gardener’ by Fernando Meirelles which was based on John le Carre’s book of a similar title.
Getting around
Using a private vehicle or a bus or a matatu, you can you can directly reach Magadi on road starting in Nairobi traveling through Kiserian. Several trekkers ascend to Magadi starting from the escarpment of Nguruman and Loita hills. The most perfect means to reach Lake Magadi plus the Olorgasaalie is by using a private vehicle or a hired car.
It is just 2 hours drive from the capital Nairobi to the southern Rift Valley in the center of the Masai land to Magadi area. This place is ideal for one day tours to have an exceptional tour through the semi-solid impressive lake.

On the western frontier of Kenya is the large Lake Victoria. The large lake was formerly referred to as Nyanza and is two times bigger than the actual size of Wales. The lake forms a natural boundary for Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
It is located on the eastern part of the African continent and is the source of river Nile the longest in the whole of Africa. Back in the nineteenth century the riddle about the Nile was one of the major mysteries that attracted explorers to the African continent. Despite failure of several European expeditions, in 1858 John Hanning Speke managed to reach the shores of this lake. And it was he that christened he lake as Lake Victoria in honor of the queen of United Kingdom Queen Elizabeth. The river Nile flows forward with the Victoria waters through various African countries up to Egypt where it finally drains into the large Mediterranean ocean.
This vast water body has a wealth of fish together with sparkling shoals of vividly colored cichlids and the very big Nile Perch. The Nyanza province is the motherland of the Luo people a tribe renowned as fearsome fishermen. Many visitors come to this lake to engage in the fishing activities majorly as they look for the Nile Perch which is believed to be world-class fish. The lake has three different fishing lodges separate islands on the lake.
Lake Victoria’s basin is one among the most populated rural localities in the whole world. Its shores are surrounded by several main cities plus towns among which are Homa Bay, Kisii and Kisumu in Kenya, Entebbe, Kampala plus Jinja in Kampala, while in Tanzania are Msoma, Bukoba and Mwanza.
The lake’s shore is Kisumu port a very serene town with large streets dotted with very good colonial architecture. The southern part of the lake is lined with small fishing villages towards the wider waters all the way to Homa Bay. Ruma national Park is found in this very locality, despite it being a rather small park; it is endowed with several exceptional species. The several attractions in this area can best be enjoyed by touring the lake itself. The shinning sun gives a sparkling view of the waters that result into a gentle breeze from the waters. Fishing Eagles are commonly seen in the surrounding tree tops as they call out to one another. The horizons of the waters are transformed to gold as the beautiful sun sets, and there you will see the different fishermen pull their nets as they return home.
Getting Around
You can reach Lake Victoria by road going through Kisumu as you directly travel from the Capital Nairobi using private vehicles, buses or matatus. You can also travel by railway from Nairobi to Kisumu. Alternatively use charter planes to the airport found in Kisumu. Mfangano Island has a private airstrip which you can also use. Adjacent to Malaba is the major border crossing with the neighboring Uganda. Traditionally, many people reach the border using a motorcycle taxi locally known as Boda Boda. From Kisumu the only road access available is south of Homa Bay to the lake. The surrounding islands can be reached using ferries or private boats.

Lake Elementeita is a small alkaline lake located in the eastern part of the Rift Valley. The lake is entirely surrounded by a stunning countryside which played a major role in the ancient colonialism of Kenya. It is located approximately 120 kilometers northwest of the capital Nairobi and lies between Lake Naivasha and the renowned lake Nakuru.
Its name was derived from ‘muteite’ a Masai word that means ‘dust place’ to refer to the dry and very dusty expanse particularly from January to March.
The far southern end of Lake Elementeita holds the Kekopey hot spring in which thousands of tilapia grahami fish breed. In this hot spring the native Masai believe that the waters can completely cure AIDS and for that reason there are several people usually bathing in these waters.
This place was a settlement and a stronghold for Lord Delamere who greatly helped in building of the colony of Kenya. Currently, Elementeita is a very serene destination and a modest place. It was built in the shadows of the high peaked hills locally referred to as the “Sleeping Masai”. Up to date, the lake still holds ancient features of the colonial home among which are the red-brick building having shady terraces, inner courtyard, sitting room and paneled walls.
Several flamingos have been attracted to this lake and several animals among which are elands, zebras, warthogs and gazelles are seen grazing on the lake shores. The lake and the adjacent forested areas are all very ideal for bird watching and nature walks. Furthermore tourists can enjoy community walks on which they can get the opportunity to interact with the local warm and very pleasant people who earn a living by dig the salt deposits found on the shore and sell them to the cattle owners.
There are close to 400 different bird species recorded in the Lake Elementeita basin with approximately two million flamingos and 3000 pelican, but unfortunately, the enhanced human activity in the recent years has not only lowered the water levels in the lake but also the flamingo total population has greatly receded.
The only available accommodation along this lake is that Lake Elementaita Lodge which was built by the early settler Lord Gaibraith Cole but is currently run by the Elementary Conservation Project and the friends of the renowned Lake Nakuru.
Some common activities around the lake include visiting the hot water spring, horse riding and bird watching.
Lake Elementeita – is a small alkaline lake, located in the eastern part of the Rift Valley

Getting around
Elementeita can be reached directly by road from Nairobi using private vehicles, buses or matatu using the major highway that proceeds to Nakuru. Gilgil is the nearest of all towns to Elementeita. Driving from the capital Nairobi, it takes about one and a half hours drive to Elementeita. There is an airstrip found in Naivasaha. This vicinity is perfect for exploring while on foot. Additionally the lodges plus the camps can always arrange local tours.

Lake Baringo is the main entrance into the northern wilderness of Kenya and its characteristic freshwaters act as an oasis to the dry plains. This is a traditional haven to three distinct tribes among which are Tugen who are a section of the big Kalenjin tribes, the Pokot and the Njemps who have a close relation to the Masai people. The Njemps tribe is an exceptional group of people that are pastoral cattle keepers and also do some fishing.
Unlike other pastoral tribes like the Masai who consider eating fish as a taboo, the Njemps people eat fish. The 130sq. Kilometer late has plenty of fish with seven distinct fish species recorded among which is the Oreochromis alcalicus baringoensi that is endemic to Baringo lake that have attracted thousands of birds among which are Fish Eagles, Pelicans and Cormorants. Additionally the late is also a haven to hundreds of crocodiles. Touring the lake itself is a very wonderful experience as it is surrounded by scenic volcanic ranges which extend to the far horizon; your eyesight is the limit.
The lake has a surface area of approximately 130sq. kilometers with an elevation of close to 970 meters. This lake is the second of the only two freshwater lakes in the great lift Valley of Kenya. Two main rivers feed this lake and these are river El Molo and river Ol Arabel and the lake has no major outlet.
More than 470 different bird species have been documented in this area and among them are the migratory flamingos.
Unfortunately because of drought and excessive irrigation, the total stock of fish today has decreased and so have the lake’s water levels.
The general climate in the area is hot and very dusty and traveling further away from the lake shores the area is very barren and rocky
There are several small islands on the lake and the biggest among them is Ol Kokwe Island located in the heart of Lake Baringo which is a barren rocky island that is home to several villages of the Njemps people. The island also has many hot springs plus fumaroles. This is an ideal place to base as you explore the different parts of the lake. There are several boat trips available on which you can see hippos, crocodiles and birds. Lake Baringo is a favorite stopover for safaris into the northern wilderness of Kenya.
Uniquely several fossils have been discovered in this area among tem are the remnants of an elephant which date back 2 million years ago. The fossils were discovered back in the 1970s and where fond by Dr. Richard Leakey a paleontologist and today they are displayed for public viewing in Nairobi Museum.
Lake Baringo – at the entrance of the Northern region of Kenya

Getting Around
To reach Baringo directly by road is by using a private vehicle, matatu or a bus starting in Nakuru. Kampi ya Samaki is the adjoining lake to this lake. The hotels plus the lodges can arrange local tours in the area. Furthermore boats are available for hire.

On the northern frontier of Kenya is this wonderful and very stunning lake renowned internationally. Formerly called Lake Rudoff, Lake Turkana lies in Kenya’s great Rift Valley and stretches into Ethiopia and is the largest Lake Turkana is a very large inland water body and the world’s largest desert-lake. This lake stretches over 250 Km and is longer than the Kenyan Coast.
It is popularly renowned as the ‘Jade Sea’ because of the extraordinary almost glowing color of its waters. Following a lengthy voyage through the very hot deserts plus lava flows found in northern Kenya, you will be marveled by the vast sparkling water body.
Not only does the Lake have a rich bird life, it also has approximately different fish species among which are the robber tetras, the Rudolf lates, Nile Tilapia, Momyrus, the elephant fish and Nile perch.
Lake Turkana has for ages supported the lives of many of Kenya’s remote tribes. The Turkana people who share ancestral links with Uganda dwell around the lake and their lifestyle is basically a semi-nomadic one. El Molo which is the smallest tribe in Kenya are hunters and fruit gatherers who also live by the lake shores in small villages characterized by unique rounded huts made of reeds.
Turkana posses one of the ancient living histories on this planet! The lake is also known as ‘The Cradle of Mankind’ because of the recent fossils that were discovered at Koobi Fora. The exact place is found in the center of Sibiloi National Park which is a destination of serene beauty and ancient terrified forests.
Lake Turkana is a natural wonder by itself and habitant to the largest population of crocodiles in the whole world. The reptiles in Lake Turkana grow to remarkable sizes and some of the largest reptile specimen found on the remote central island. This lake region is the most remote of all destinations in Kenya but a very rewarding destination for the fearless travelers.
Lake Turkana – is an enormous inland sea and the world’s largest desert-lake

Getting Around –
Accessing the Eastern and western shore is through completely different routes and the two shores are separated physically by the lake’s large, uncross-able Suguta Valley. Through Marsabit and the Maralal, one can reach the eastern shore with the focal point of reaching being the tinny Oasis town of the Loiyangalani.
Through Kitale with Lodwar being the focal access point, you can reach the western shore. Both shores have an airstrip to service chartered aircrafts. This region is a popular launch site for many going for safari into the isolated Omo region found in southern Ethiopia. Turkana should be toured as a section of a professionally arranged safari. The lake is surrounded by quite a few distinct roads. You can explore Lake Turkana’s shore on foot though will require you to carry along plenty of water and have very good directions around this area.
Furthermore there are boats available to be hired within the villages that line the shore and the best way to full explore the vast lake is on boat. Remember to take along a local guide.

Birding in Kenya
Kenya is the world’s number one birding destination. You do not have to ask why it ranks so high in birds with nature’s gift of the vast Rift Valley lakes that camouflage with a mass of pink flamingoes and the ostrich that is found in some parts of Kenya. You actually have to be there to enjoy such birding sights!
The parks, cities and reserves all over Kenya are recorded to have more than 1085 bird species which is particularly eleven percent of the world’s birds! A short birding trip in Kenya will include sights for more than 300 species and nearly 110 for any one birding site of your choice. These incredible bird statistics are attributed to the diverse bird habitats, good weather and the distinct geographic features that attract several migrants from all over Europe and Asia.
Birding in Nairobi City
If say you are visiting the capital of Kenya Nairobi, expect to take sights of more than 500 birds nesting in the trees and streets of this vibrant business hub. Nairobi is said to be best capital in the world with a variety of birds than seen where else.
No matter where you are in Nairobi, you are guaranteed sight of strange migrant birds and the usual Nairobi birds. Some of the best places to find birds in Nairobi include the National Museum gardens and Nairobi National Park. Even from the comfort of your hotel balcony or verandah, you’ll be able to see a few birds in the gardens chirping to the morning sun. Popular sights include the secretary bird, long tailed mouse birds, bustards, Banglafecht bright yellow & black weavers and the tiny iridescent sun birds.
The Marabou stork is a regular sight in many East African cities as it is in Nairobi. This giant bird finds the city’s acacia lined streets the best place to have it nests and once in a while will visit the damping points around the city. For the best trips, be apart of the weekly birding trips organized by Nature Kenya to different birding sites within Nairobi city and the surrounding areas.
Bird watching in Kenya is great all through the year but the best time to visit on birding trips is during the months of April to November. This time of the year marks the annual rainy season that attracts Euro-Asia migrant birds which the highest birding totals for any day tours!
According to statistics, just 10% of Kenya’s birds are migrant species that fly in from countries in Europe and Asia. Notable grassland endemics found in Kenya include the lilac breasted roller, guinea fowl, bustards, Lark and barbets among others. A visit to Tsavo National Park or the dry savannah of Samburu reserve or Masai Mara will give sights of more birds. Nevertheless, the rift valley lakes such as Lake Naivasha and the forested highlands of Aberdare also have a long list of birds to watch. There are a wide range of bird habitats in Kenya that offer excellent sightings on day trips within Nairobi and beyond.
Kenya is home to several endemic species, the rare and the endangered birds as well. More than 23 species of Kenya’s birds are classified as globally threatened while several are endemic and others rarely sighted except for a few distinct birding habitats. The Arabuko-Sokoke forest near the coastal town of Malindi is home to more than 6 endangered species including Sokoke pipit, Amani sunbird, spotted ground thrush, Clarke’s weaver Sokoke Scoop owl and East coast Akalat.
The forests on the Taita Hills have some rare forest endemic species such as the endangered Taita Apalis, Taita white eye and the critically endangered Taita thrush among other forest birds.
From the Aberdare mountains ranges is Sharpe’s Longclaw and the Aberdare cisticola that are native to the highlands and forests on the foothills.
Kakamega forest in western Kenya maintains lush tropical rain forests which are home to the endangered tiny turner’s Eremomela, Turaco and the Hornbill among others rain forest species. To the shore and papyrus beds on Lake Victoria, you’ll find the papyrus endemic gonolek, papyrus canary, white winged warbler and the endangered papyrus yellow warbler that is rarely seen across the world.
Birding tips
Like for every Kenya safari game drive, it is important to have a local guide and this is no exception bird watching safaris in Kenya. There are several guides to guide bird enthusiasts or naturalist on birding trips all over the country. These guides are familiar with the different birding sites and can thus help identify the birds-giving both the scientific names and local names for the different birds. They are formally trained by the Kenya birding association and international scientists that often visit Kenya.
Before getting a guide for your birding trip, it is very important to seek help from the local association of Professional bird guide and Kenya Tour operators. Local guides no only increase chances for seeing Kenya’s birds in the most remote regions, they are part of the community based bird conservation drive. Booking a local guide for you birding trip is equated to activity participating in bird conservation!