Top Reasons to Visit Sibiloi National Park in Kenya: Sibiloi National Park lies on the northeastern shore of Lake Turkana in northern Kenya. Lake Turkana is the only water source in the park. Sibiloi was established in 1973 to protect and preserve some of the most significant archaeological sites on the planet, as well as ecologically significant animal and plant species. The natural, cultural, and historical assets of the park have been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The area is characterized by semi-desert habitat and open plains flanked by volcanic formations including Mount Sibiloi where the remains of a petrified forest can be seen.
Here are the top reasons you should definitely consider visiting this remarkable destination.
- Explore Koobi Fora Museum
North of Alia Bay lies Koobi Fora, although all of Koobi Fora’s human fossils are now housed in Nairobi’s National Museum, you can still view the fossil of a 3-million-year-old giant tortoise, an ancient species of crocodile, and a 1.5-million-year-old behemoth on-site. This area is rich in research opportunities concerning the geology of the region and the evolution of animals and humans. This site offers valuable insights into our past and the natural history of the area. More so, there are many more other attractions in the park such as the Jarigole pillars which are famously known as excavation sites that contain the highest artefact density and are also referred to as a pre iron age burial grounds which contain archaeological artifacts such as; figurines, beads, lithic artifact among others and petrified forest which was formed as a result of the scrubland that is surrounded by beautiful lakes and rivers and many others.
- Bird Watching
Sibiloi is a paradise with over 300 different species, both seen on land and near water. During your birdwatching tour, you’ll have the chance to spot different birds species such as White-faced Whistling Duck, Egyptian Goose, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, Crested Francolin, Greater and lesser Flamingo, Mourning Collared Dove, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse, African Palm Swift, White-bellied Bustard, Kori Bustard, White-bellied Go-away-bird, European White Stork, Great White Pelican, Hamerkop, Black-headed Heron, Goliath Heron, African Sacred Ibis and Great Cormorant among others. The northern shores of Lake Turkana are particularly exciting for birdwatchers, especially during the migration seasons. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of these feathered inhabitants.
- Experience the Wildlife
Sibiloi is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grant’s gazelles, hippos, reticulated giraffes, greater kudus, beisa oryxes, topis, to name a few. The area also includes Lake Turkana, the largest desert lake in the world, which not only supports a diverse aquatic ecosystem but is also a breeding ground for Nile crocodiles and hippos. A chance to see these magnificent creatures is a highlight for many visitors.
- Game Drive
One of the best ways to fully experience Sibiloi is by going on a game drive. Driving through established trails allows you to get up close and personal with the wildlife. You might encounter rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and striped hyenas, alongside more familiar animals such as plain zebras and leopards. The thrill of spotting these animals in the wild is an unforgettable experience
- Cultural visit
The park is home to three local tribes these are; the Turkana, Gabbra and Dassanach local people. Their traditional cultures and practices are still pure and intact and hence have never been tampered with by modern practices. During harsh dry seasons, some other tribes like the Rendille and Samburu people join them. Visiting Sibiloi gives you the chance to engage with the traditional people can be arranged and you get a chance to experience their technology-free lifestyles. On the other hand, you can witness the uniqueness of all these people during their annual cultural event locally known as, “The Marsabit-Lake Turkana Cultural Festival” which takes place at Loyangalani.
- Visit to lake Turkana
Lake Turkana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest alkaline lake in the world, and the largest lake of any kind in a desert. Lake Turkana is surrounded by volcanic rock and subject to a brutally dry southeasterly wind. Vegetation is sparse and spiky. The lake is often called the ‘Jade Sea’ because of its size and turquoise waters. The water level of the lake fluctuates widely. It used to be 100m/330ft higher thousands of years ago. Lake Turkana is not really a wildlife destination, but it’s famous for its crocodiles and bird colonies. Up to an estimated 120,000 Nile crocodiles breed on Central Island, which can be visited by boat. Sibiloi National Park protects the wildlife in the area, including some north Kenyan species such as reticulated giraffes, beisa oryx, lesser kudu, gerenuk and gravy’s zebras. Lions, leopards and cheetahs are present, but rarely seen. While exploring this beautiful lake, you’ll learn about its importance to local communities and how it supports their livelihoods. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, so keep an eye out for crocodiles and various birds. The serene environment is perfect for some quiet reflection, making it a wonderful place to relax and unwind.
