Sibiloi National Park
Sibiloi National Park lies on the north-eastern shore of lake Turkana in northern Kenya, established in 1973 by the government of Kenya for the protection of wildlife and palaeontological sites there covering 1,570km2 and is internationally known for its fossils. It was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1997 as a part of Lake Turkana National Park.
Sibiloi National Park is located on the wild and rugged shores of Lake Turkana, the cradle of mankind and home to important archaeological sites, including Koobi Fora where the fossil remains have contributed more to the understanding of human evolution than any other site in the continent. The area is characterized by semi-desert habitat, with open plains flanked by volcanic formations including Mount Sibiloi, where the remains of a petrified forest can be seen.
The park was named Mount Sibiloi in view at Alia Bay on the south perimeter with the park headquarters of the Kenya Wildlife Service, the administering authority, camping and short stay facilities for visitors and the Koobi Fora Museum. Koobi Fora Spit with the facilities of the Koobi Fora research Centre are to the north and are accessible through guided tours.
The most famous remains from the park are the Australopithecus and early homo fossils which have been moved to Nairobi but fossil non-humanoids are on display in the museum.
Major Attractions in Sibiloi National Park
Lake Turkana National Park
It is an important laboratory for the study of plants and animal communities and the national park acts as a stopover for migrant waterfowl and it is a major breeding ground for hippopotamus, Nile crocodile and venomous snakes. The park is also home to other terrestrial wildlife like; Grant Gazelles, Zebras, Leopards, Greater kudu, cheetahs, Beisa Oryx, Lions, Northern Topi and many more. Haven for bird species with over 350 aquatic and terrestrial birds have been recorded in Turkana Lake such as flamingos, herons, pelicans, ducks, skimmers and lots more.
Human fossils
These fossils include the remains of Homo habilis, Australopithecus robustus, Homo erectus and Homo sapiens. Other findings include the largest diversity of ancestors of modern animal species. It is remarkable for having over 100 archaeological sites.
Koobi Fora
There are extensive paleontological sites that have been made like the evidence of the existence of a relatively intelligent hominid over a million years ago. The flora contains different bird species and animals, small animals among others.
Communities
The park’s sites are surrounded by communities with rich and unique unpolluted traditional cultures namely; Turkana, the Gabra and the Dassanach. During dry seasons, nomadic people like Samburu and Rendille are seen within the surrounding areas. These communities teach tourists about their ways of living, behaviors and activities.
Major Activities done in Sibiloi National Park Kenya
There are quite a number of activities tourists engage in such as Archeological safaris, Bird watching, Camping, Fishing, camel rides, desert exploration, culture visits, bush walk and Game viewing. These activities give the best safari experience in the destinations of east Africa.
Game viewing:
Game viewing activities in Sibiloi National Park is quite an amazing experience where one can be able to venture a wide range of wildlife in semi-arid areas such as gravy’s zebra, beisa Oryx, gerenuk, greater kudu, lion, spotted hyenas, jackals, caracals, leopards among others. During your game drive viewing, tourists can also see the fossils within the national park which offer a magical view in the park.
Bush walks
This is part of an activity where tourists can engage in trekking through the petrified forest as well as along the Koobi Fora spit. Bush walk experience allow travellers to get close views of the park’s attractions and this activity is guided by professional guides who will explain aspects about the different fossils and archaeological findings in the park.
Cultural visits
On your visit to Sibiloi National Park, go visit unpolluted and rich traditional culture of the surrounding communities such as the Turkana, Gabbra and Dassanach. Get interacted with them and also learn about their amazing lifestyle and the clothing style.
Where to stay in the park
Desert Rose Lodge
Desert Rose lodge is a unique eco-friendly lodge located at 5,500 feet above sea level in the verdant cedar forest slopes of Mt Nyiru which towers majestically above the Elbarta plains between Karisia Mountains and Lake Turkana in Northern Kenya. It consists of five unique houses accommodating up to twelve people and the remote location of the lodge enclosed to nature and surrealist amid the wilderness creates a unique atmosphere of spirituality and attracts not only people but also wild animals.
Oasis lodge
The lodge is overlooking the southern shore of Lake Turkana and this long-established fishing lodge and caravanserai is set on a low bluff in the village of Loiyangalani offering simple accommodation, a bar, restaurant and two small swimming pools and you will find the newly refurbished Oasis Lodge provides adequate comfort and service.
Lobolo camp
The camp is situated midway along the western shore of Lake Turkana, sheltered in the hollow of a spit lying in Lobolo, which in the local Turkana language means a place of abundant water and the area is really of natural springs whose waters have given rise to a verdant oasis of foliage and distinct animal and bird life. The camp has six en-suite safari-style tents, with spring water showers, flushing loos and wash basins, which lie nestled within an extensive palm grove and each tent has it’s unique remarkable and varied view of the park. Experience archaeological, geological, educational, and fishing trips. To thoroughly get the most out of the area, you can also explore it by helicopter.
Jirime Hotel and Resort
Jirime Hotel and Resort is nestled in the breathtaking Marsabit in a hidden gem just away from the Marsabit Airstrip and only a few kilometres from the vibrant Marsabit Town situated on a lush 16.7-acre farm and this extraordinary destination offers clients an unparalleled experience that will leave you in awe. Here, in the tranquil surroundings truly unwind and rejuvenate after exploring the abundant opportunities that await you in Marsabit County. Each room is thoughtfully designed and furnished to ensure your utmost comfort and satisfaction. Prepare yourself for a captivating, exhilarating, and indelible stay at the prestigious Jirime Hotel and Resort centrally located in the historic Marsabit town.
Nomads trail hotel
It’s a clean hotel with private showers and European-style toilets, clean beds, good mosquito nets, good Wi-Fi. Friendly staff. Restaurants with local food are a bit pricier than what can be found elsewhere. Bicycle friendly, safe gated parking. 1500Ksh for a single room, 1800Ksh for a single room with breakfast, it is cheaper to pay for breakfast at the restaurant than to include it with the room.
How can you access the park?
By Road:
The roads connecting the national park with major towns offer both tarmac and gravel sections and it is a long-distance driving journey but rough road is therefore recommended for travel in a 4×4 wheel drive vehicle. From Nairobi capital city is 800 kilometers North of Nairobi passing via Marsabit and North Horr or Maralal and South Horr is a three-day drive to access the main destination. Another opinion, you can travel by road from Nairobi to Kalokol on the lake’s western shores passing through Nakuru and Lodwar. From Kalokol hire a boat to take you across the lake to Alia bay.
By Air:
There are 2 all weather airstrips in the park. Other airstrips are also found in Marsabit, Loiyangalani, Kalokol, North Horr and Lodwar. Commercial flights only operate from the Lodwar airstrip.
Best time to visit Sibiloi National Park
Just like other national parks, the preferable time to visit Sibiloi park is between march during crocodiles breeding and bird’s migration back to Europe. The park can also be visited throughout the year on a calendar given the climatic conditions are favorable. The dry seasons allow a successful game viewing in the park with easy hiking and game drives although the accommodation is expensive due to a high number of tourists.