This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
Discovering Northern Kenya's Hidden Gems ¶
Published on September 9, 2019
As I embarked on my journey through Northern Kenya, I was struck by the region's unique landscapes, diverse cultures, and breathtaking natural wonders. From the majestic Chalbi Desert to the tranquil Lake Turkana, every moment was a testament to the region's untamed beauty.
My journey began in Nairobi, where I set off early in the morning, bound for the Northern region. The road was well-marked, and we made our way through Karatina, Nanyuki, Isiolo, and Archers Post, before finally arriving in Laisamis. Along the way, we passed through the Elephant migration corridor, a vital route for these majestic creatures.
As we continued our journey, we stopped in Isiolo town for lunch, where I was struck by the town's diverse culture. The residents of Isiolo are a mix of Muslims and Christians, and the town is home to the Borana, Somali, Meru, Samburu, and Turkana people.
From Isiolo, we headed to Marsabit, where we stayed at the Jirime Hotel and Resort. The hotel was named after a common tree in the area, and it was the perfect place to rest and recharge for the next leg of our journey.
As we left Marsabit, we headed into the Chalbi Desert, a vast and arid expanse that covers an area of approximately 100,000 square kilometers. The desert is believed to have been a lake that dried up over a thousand years ago, and it is a perfect place for motorsports, camel derbies, and caravans.
From the Chalbi Desert, we headed to Loiyangalani, where we stayed at the Malabo Resort. The resort offered breathtaking views of Lake Turkana, and it was the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.
One of the highlights of our journey was a visit to the El Molo Bay, home to Kenya's smallest tribe. The El Molo are a hunter-gatherer community, and they are one of the last true remnants of a bygone era.
As we continued our journey, we visited the Lake Turkana, a vast and beautiful lake that is home to a diverse array of wildlife. The lake was used as a filming location for the Lion King, and it is a testament to the region's untamed beauty.
Finally, we ended our journey in Nyahururu, where we stayed at the Giraffe Ark Game Lodge. The lodge was a serene sanctuary that graced the plains of Kieni in Nyeri County, and it was the perfect place to end our epic journey through Northern Kenya.