Description

South Turkana National Reserve Kenya Safari – Wildlife & Scenic Landscapes

Discover South Turkana National Reserve

The South Turkana National Reserve Kenya Safari is a vast and remote wilderness in northern Kenya, stretching along the southern shores of Lake Turkana. Known for its rugged landscapes, volcanic hills, and semi-arid plains, this reserve offers travelers a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Its isolation ensures minimal crowds, providing an authentic adventure for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers alike.

A South Turkana National Reserve Kenya Safari combines striking scenery with fascinating wildlife. Many travelers also combine the safari with visits to Central Island National Park or Loiyangalani, creating a unique northern Kenya safari adventure filled with diverse landscapes and experiences.

Wildlife and Nature

The reserve hosts a remarkable variety of wildlife, including elephants, Grevy’s zebras, oryx, and lions. Other residents include giraffes, buffaloes, and cheetahs, all roaming freely across the open plains. Birdwatchers can observe over 250 species, including vultures, flamingos, herons, and kingfishers, especially around the seasonal wetlands and Lake Turkana’s shoreline.

The semi-arid terrain, volcanic rocks, and occasional riverine patches create stunning contrasts for photography. Seasonal rivers and waterholes attract large herds of herbivores, offering excellent opportunities for game drives.

Things to Do

Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, birdwatching tours, and short hikes across rocky hills. Photographers and adventure travelers will appreciate the scenic landscapes, panoramic lake views, and the remote wilderness. Cultural visits to local Turkana communities provide insight into traditional practices, crafts, and lifestyles of northern Kenya’s semi-nomadic people.

A South Turkana National Reserve Kenya Safari is often combined with nearby northern reserves and Lake Turkana’s islands for a multi-day adventure. This combination ensures exposure to diverse wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and cultural encounters.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October and December to February, when wildlife concentrates near water sources and roads are more accessible. The wet season offers lush scenery and migratory birds but may make some tracks challenging for 4×4 vehicles.

Getting There and Accommodation

South Turkana lies about 750 kilometers from Nairobi, accessible via 4×4 vehicles or small charter flights to Loiyangalani. Accommodation options are limited to tented camps and eco-lodges, often located near water sources. Many lodges offer guided safaris, cultural visits, and photography opportunities, ensuring a complete northern Kenya experience.