Lake Turkana

Overview

Introduction

Lake Turkana, also referred to as the Jade Sea, lies in the very remote north of Kenya on the border with Ethiopia and 530 mi/849 km northwest of Nairobi. Only adventurous travelers get this far, as the terrain is inhospitable and hot with temperatures that can reach 122 F/ 50 C. But those who do get to Lake Turkana are greatly rewarded.

There are several national parks around the brilliant turquoise waters of the lake, though there are very few terrestrial animals up there.

However, in the lake it's a different story: Turkana is widely believed to be home to the largest concentration of Nile crocodiles in the world, an estimated 20,000. It is also home to some giant fish, and the Nile perch there grow to a staggering 200-400 lb/90-180 kg.

Most people visit Lake Turkana to meet the interesting and ancient tribes that have adapted to the harsh desert over the centuries.