Chalbi Desert Safari

The Chalbi Desert is a small desert in northern Kenya near the border with Ethiopia. It is east of Lake Turkana and contains North Horr. Marsabit is the closest major urban center. Chalbi desert is composed of saline and alkaline sediments and stabilised sand dunes; a resulting formation of the old bed of Lake Chalbi.

Day 1:

Depart early from Nairobi on Land Cruiser and drive north past Nanyuki and the beautiful farmlands of Timau to stop for fuel at Isiolo. Drive north and stopover for photos and sightseeing at Mt. Ololokwe before proceeding to Marsabit, a cool mountain town in the North. Drive up to Lake Marsabit in time to see the animals coming out for an evening drink, visit the 3 crater lakes in the park before going to your hotel Saku guest house for dinner. The sunset from the hills is also worth the drive.

Day 2:

After breakfast, embark on crossing the great Chalbi desert. The journey leads you to a beautiful oasis at the edge of the Chalbi desert. The vast landscapes and open desert will amaze you. The crossing with skilled drivers on sand is thrilling. The tour will take you through the Maikona and Kalacha oasis, a pleasant surprise in the middle of the very arid countryside. Spend the evening in cottages at the edge of the desert- North Horr. The nights are great for stargazing. It’s the perfect place to find your peace after a long stay in the city.

Day 3:

In the morning, embark on the crossing of the Chalbi. The vast landscapes and sand dunes will amaze you. Head out south to Loiyangalani, later in the day drive out and visit the famous El molo people living on the shores of the lake and are 100% dependent on the lake for survival. If you are out for some adventure, you can visit Elmollo shrine Island by boat. Evening Sundowner on the lake is a lively way to end the day. Overnight at Malabo Resort, Loiyangalani.

Day 4:

Spend your morning relaxing at the resort, then later drive North to Ngurunit an oasis surrounded by tens of mountains and ranges popularly known as the Ndoto. On the way, you get to pass by the Lake Turkana wind farm, the scenery is surreal. Check in at Golbo a basic guesthouse for lunch and overnight with views of the mountains around. You may visit the natural rock pools and slide in the afternoon after arrival.

Day 5:

In the morning, visit the basket project and buy some souvenirs. Take a dive in the rockslides spring once again before heading out back to the city. Stop over at Nanyuki for lunch, then proceed with the journey to Nairobi to arrive early in the evening.