Lake Turkana National Parks
Location: Rift Valley Province, Kenya
Year of Inscription: 1997
Criteria: (viii) to be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features;
(x) to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: The Lake Turkana National Parks is a unique and exceptional natural landscape that contains an array of geological and biological features. The parks are home to a number of endemic species and are a crucial habitat for migratory birds. The area is also of great importance to anthropologists, as it contains evidence of human evolution and prehistoric culture.
Prominent Features: The Lake Turkana National Parks are home to a number of unique features, including:
Lake Turkana: This is the largest desert lake in the world and a vital habitat for fish and bird species.
Central Island: This island is an active volcano that rises out of the lake and contains a number of craters and hot springs.
Koobi Fora: This site is of great importance to anthropologists, as it contains evidence of early hominid species and prehistoric culture.
History: The Lake Turkana National Parks have a rich history that dates back millions of years. The area has been inhabited by various human groups, and evidence of their culture and way of life can be found throughout the parks.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy a range of activities in the Lake Turkana National Parks, including camping, fishing, bird-watching, and hiking. Visitors can also take guided tours of Koobi Fora and other cultural sites.
Fun Fact: The Lake Turkana National Parks is home to the largest crocodile population in the world.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Lake Turkana National Parks varies depending on the park and the duration of your stay. It is recommended to check with the Kenya Wildlife Service for current fees and permits.
How to Reach It: The Lake Turkana National Parks are located in a remote region of Kenya, and road transportation can be difficult. Visitors can reach the parks by flying into Lodwar or taking a bus from Nairobi or Kisumu. Most visitors prefer to fly to the park's nearest airstrip, which is located in Lodwar town. From Lodwar, visitors can hire a vehicle to take them to the park.
Alternatively, visitors can arrange to travel by boat along the lake shore to reach the park's various sites. It is recommended to hire a guide or join a tour for transportation and safety reasons.
Where to Stay: There are a few lodges and campsites located within the Lake Turkana National Parks, but visitors should be prepared for basic facilities and limited amenities. It is recommended to bring your own camping gear and supplies.
Next Stop: Mount Kenya National Park/Natural Forest
Year of Inscription: 1997
Criteria: (viii) to be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features;
(x) to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: The Lake Turkana National Parks is a unique and exceptional natural landscape that contains an array of geological and biological features. The parks are home to a number of endemic species and are a crucial habitat for migratory birds. The area is also of great importance to anthropologists, as it contains evidence of human evolution and prehistoric culture.
Prominent Features: The Lake Turkana National Parks are home to a number of unique features, including:
Lake Turkana: This is the largest desert lake in the world and a vital habitat for fish and bird species.
Central Island: This island is an active volcano that rises out of the lake and contains a number of craters and hot springs.
Koobi Fora: This site is of great importance to anthropologists, as it contains evidence of early hominid species and prehistoric culture.
History: The Lake Turkana National Parks have a rich history that dates back millions of years. The area has been inhabited by various human groups, and evidence of their culture and way of life can be found throughout the parks.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy a range of activities in the Lake Turkana National Parks, including camping, fishing, bird-watching, and hiking. Visitors can also take guided tours of Koobi Fora and other cultural sites.
Fun Fact: The Lake Turkana National Parks is home to the largest crocodile population in the world.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Lake Turkana National Parks varies depending on the park and the duration of your stay. It is recommended to check with the Kenya Wildlife Service for current fees and permits.
How to Reach It: The Lake Turkana National Parks are located in a remote region of Kenya, and road transportation can be difficult. Visitors can reach the parks by flying into Lodwar or taking a bus from Nairobi or Kisumu. Most visitors prefer to fly to the park's nearest airstrip, which is located in Lodwar town. From Lodwar, visitors can hire a vehicle to take them to the park.
Alternatively, visitors can arrange to travel by boat along the lake shore to reach the park's various sites. It is recommended to hire a guide or join a tour for transportation and safety reasons.
Where to Stay: There are a few lodges and campsites located within the Lake Turkana National Parks, but visitors should be prepared for basic facilities and limited amenities. It is recommended to bring your own camping gear and supplies.
Next Stop: Mount Kenya National Park/Natural Forest