Chalbi Desert Safari and visit to Lake Turkana

Day 1: Journey to Marsabit National Park

Marsabit National Park in northern Kenya offers a unique safari experience away from the usual Kenya's main safari circuit, famed for its lush crater forests and diverse wildlife. Spot elephants, including the legendary big-tusked species, along with greater kudu, buffalo, and blue monkeys, especially near the park’s beautiful crater lake.

Depart early from Nairobi in a Land Cruiser, passing through Nanyuki and the scenic Timau farmlands. After a lunch break in Isiolo, enjoy photo stops at Mt. Ololokwe before reaching Marsabit. Arrive in time for an evening game drive, exploring the serene Lake Paradise within the park.

Day 2: Adventure Through Chalbi Desert Dunes and Kalacha Oasis

Highlights | Chalbi Desert, Kalacha Oasis, Star Gazing

Experience the captivating beauty of the Chalbi Desert, where vast dunes and rocky outcrops create a serene, otherworldly landscape. After breakfast, embark on a thrilling desert crossing with skilled drivers, leading you to the lush Kalacha Oasis—a peaceful sanctuary framed by golden dunes and vibrant palm trees. Explore this hidden oasis, where life flourishes against the desert’s stark backdrop. In the evening, unwind in cottages at the desert’s edge, perfect for stargazing and finding tranquility away from the city’s hustle.

Day 3: Discover the Breathtaking Landscapes of Loiyangalani and Lake Turkana

Highlights | Lake Turkana, Desert Drive, Oasis Village

Discover the captivating beauty of Loiyangalani, nestled along the shores of Lake Turkana, the world’s largest desert lake, also known as the Jade Sea. Surrounded by arid plains, volcanic hills, and rocky outcrops, this unique landscape offers a mesmerizing experience.

After a scenic 3-hour drive to Loiyangalani, explore Lake Turkana before heading south to the tranquil oasis village of Ngurunit, surrounded by the 40-km Ndoto Mountain range. Here, enjoy hikes and refreshing pool swims—a truly unforgettable experience. Embrace the resilient local culture, where fishing, herding, and crafts sustain life in this remarkable corner of Kenya.

Day 4: Historic Exploration of Lake Turkana

Enjoy a day of fascinating historical discovery! Visit the Desert Museum to delve into local culture and heritage, and encounter the unique Desert Mobile Library for an enriching experience.

Desert Museum

Explore the Desert Museum in Loiyangalani, on Lake Turkana’s eastern shores, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Turkana, El Molo, Rendille, and Samburu communities. Discover traditional artefacts, learn about the area’s unique desert-lake ecosystems, and understand sustainable practices that have enabled these communities to thrive for centuries.

Enhance your experience with a visit to the renowned Homo erectus site, home to a 1.6 million-year-old skeleton, and meet local fishermen at Ferguson Gulf for a glimpse into their way of life along Africa’s Jade Sea.

The Desert Mobile Library

In the remote Chalbi Desert, a camel-powered mobile library once brought the gift of knowledge to isolated communities, reaching eager learners without access to traditional resources. Camels, known as "ships of the desert," carried books and educational materials across vast sands, stopping at schools and villages.

For visitors, this unique service offers a magical experience—imagine receiving a romantic book or heartfelt message delivered by a camel, creating an unforgettable storybook moment amid the desert’s sweeping landscapes. This blend of tradition and discovery adds a special touch to any journey through Chalbi, making it truly memorable.

Day 5: Trekking Adventures in Ngurunit & the Ndoto Mountains

Highlights | Interacting with locals, Ndoto Mountains, Canyons

After an exhilarating desert journey, unwind in the serene village of Ngurunit, where you can swim in natural rock pools, hike the beautiful Ndoto Mountains, and connect with local Samburu culture. Spend the night at a community camp, enjoying a cosy bonfire and storytelling under the stars.

Nestled in northern Kenya, Ngurunit and the Ndoto Mountains offer a stunning landscape with acacia-dotted terrain, dramatic cliffs, and unique wildlife. Guided nature walks, birdwatching, and cultural interactions make this destination a perfect choice for an authentic, immersive adventure in Kenya’s pristine northern wilderness.

Day 6: End of Chalbi Desert Safari

As your safari draws to a close, we’re confident you’ll leave with cherished memories and hope to welcome you back on another Chalbi Desert adventure. After breakfast, we’ll begin the journey to Nairobi, with an optional lunch stop in Nanyuki. Arrive in Nairobi by evening, concluding your unforgettable exploration of northern Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife.