Overview Lake Turkana, nicknamed the “Jade Sea” for its stunning turquoise color, is the world’s largest permanent desert lake and the world’s largest alkaline lake. Located in the arid, remote north of Kenya, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place of harsh, dramatic beauty. The lake is a cradle of mankind, with the surrounding Koobi Fora region having yielded some of the most important hominid fossil discoveries in history. The area is home to the El Molo, Kenya’s smallest ethnic group, who have adapted to the challenging lakeside environment.
Activities Due to its remote location, activities at Lake Turkana are centered on exploration and cultural immersion. Expeditions to the Central Island National Park, a breeding ground for the world’s largest concentration of Nile crocodiles, are a major highlight. Visitors can explore the fossil-rich sites of Koobi Fora with a guide from the National Museums of Kenya. Cultural encounters with the El Molo, Turkana, and other local communities offer a fascinating glimpse into a traditional way of life. The annual Lake Turkana Festival is a vibrant celebration of the region’s diverse cultures.
Did you know? The fossils found near Lake Turkana, including the famous “Turkana Boy,” have provided critical evidence for the story of human evolution.
