Sibiloi National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and probably Kenya’s most remote national park, Sibiloi lies on the northeastern shore of Lake Turkana in northern Kenya, about 800 km from Nairobi. The semi-desert ecosystem was established to protect wildlife and the unique prehistoric and archaeological sites, some of which are linked to the origin of man. The terrain is lakeshore, dry semi-desert bush, and near the desert country.

Sibiloi National Park is waterless except for the lake’s alkaline waters; it, however, harbors a variety of wildlife, including zebra, giraffe, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species such flamingos,  pelicans, and ducks. Other attractions are the preserved wildlife fossils, including the Giant Tortoise and the 18-20 ft. long crocodile.

Major Attractions

• Origins of Man: Koobi Fora Museum and research base.
• Thousands of fossils, including giant tortoises.
• Behemoth, 45 ft-long Crocodile.
• Lake Turkana Scenery.
• Petrified forests on the edge of Mount Sibiloi at Alia Bay.
• Game viewing.
• Prolific birdlife.
• The Crocodile Kingdom.
• Karsa Waterhole – is a rare pool of standing fresh water where wildlife goes to quench their thirst.
• Jarigole Pillars – an excavation site of a pre-iron age burial ground.

Wildlife at Sibiloi National Park

Wildlife at Sibiloi National Park includes Grevy’s zebra, Grants’ gazelle, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, topi, greater kudu, lion, cheetah, leopard, striped and spotted hyena, and silver-backed jackal.

The world’s largest Nile Crocodile population breeds on Lake Turkana Central Island.

Birdlife at the Park

The national park has more than 350 recorded species, including flamingos, pelicans, and ducks. Water birds, such as African Skimmers, Herons, and Gulls, can be spotted on the shoreline. The park is home to local species such as the Crested Lark and Heuglin’s Bustard.

What to do at the Park

• Game viewing.
• Bird watching.
• Camping.
• Archaeological Safaris.
• Interacting with local tribes: Gabbra, Turkana, and Dassanach, all communities with rich traditional cultures.
• Nature walks in the petrified forest and along the Koobi Fora spit.

Where to Stay

Lodges and tented camps: Oasis Lodge, Lobolo Tented Camp

KWS self-catering accommodation: Allia Bay Guesthouse

Campsites: Turkana Campsite, Sunset Strip Camp

Travel Tips

Sibiloi National Park is entirely waterless, apart from the salty waters of the lakeshore and a few remote waterholes. It is scorching and dry here.

Safari options include a guided fly-in tour or overlanding on an extended safari through the northern frontier. Any expedition should be well-equipped, self-sufficient, and conducted by experienced guides.

Getting There and Around

Roads: high-clearance 4WD vehicle is essential all year round. Travel in convoy is recommended. The lake is a three-day drive from Nairobi via Marsabit and North Horr, Maralal, and South Horr. Alternatively, travel any road from Nairobi to Kalokol on the lake’s western shores via Kitale and Lodwar. From Kalokol, hire services are available across the lake to Allia Bay.

By air: there are two all-weather airstrips.

Other Details

Park Size: 1,570 sq. Km.

Park Entry Fees: Check the KWS Website for more details.

Climatic conditions: Hot and arid.

Best Time to Visit: All year round.