Super User 16 August 2023

Best Travel Guide To Sibiloi National Park Wildlife in Kenya

Renowned for its heritage fossil sites & native wildlife preserve with camping, a museum & guided tours, Sibiloi National Park is one of the best places to visit in northern Kenya.

Sibiloi National Park lies on the northeastern shore of Lake Turkana in Northern Kenya. UNESCO has recognized the natural culture and historical assets in the Sibiloi National Park as a world heritage site. Although Sibiloi National Park might be limited compared to other safari destinations in Kenya it’s highly recommended by tourists, as it’s also one of the most beautiful places in Kenya.

Sibiloi National Park History:

Sibiloi National Park was established in 1973 by the government of Kenya to protect the wildlife and paleontologist sites there, it covers around 1,570 Square Kilometers. The park was originally named after Mount Sibiloi, which is located near the park headquarters of the Kenya Wildlife Service. It 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.

Location of Sibiloi National Park in Kenya:

Sibiloi National Park is located on the wild and rugged shores of Lake Turkana – the cradle of mankind in northern Kenya - Sibiloi is 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 and open plains flanked by volcanic formations including Mount Sibiloi, where the remains of a petrified forest can be seen.

Background:

The park derives its name from Mount Sibiloi in view at Alia Bay on the south perimeter. There also, is located 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 Center is to the north but is accessible through guided tours.

The most famous remains from the park are the Australopithecus and early Homo fossils. These have been moved to Nairobi, but fossil non-humanoids are on display in the museum.

Wildlife in Sibiloi National Park:

Wildlife experiences are limited compared to other safari destinations in Kenya, but you will observe Grant’s gazelles, hippos, giraffes, and more.

Animals:

The park's climate is hot. However, it protects a range of wildlife of animals that can live in arid conditions such as Grevy's Zebra, Gerenuk, Beisa Oryx, and greater Kudu. Other wildlife species include predators like Lions, leopards, cheetahs, Striped and Spotted Hyena, Jackal, and Caracal.

The world’s largest population of Nile crocodiles is found on the North, South, and Central Island of Lake Turkana, making the location very unique.

Birds:

With more than 300 bird species recorded around Lake Turkana, Birdlife is prolific. This number increases during the summer months due to the migration of species. Although the alkaline lake is not suitable for many species, flamingos and Pelicans love the salty environment of the water. Visitors can spot a variety of water birds on the shoreline including African Skimmers, Herons, and Gulls. Last but not least, the park is home to local species such as the Crested Lark and Heuglin's Bustard.

Trees:

The petrified forest is one of the unique attractions for tourists to view during a trip to Sibiloi National Park. This attraction consists of numerous tree fossils dating back to prehistoric times.

Why Visit Sibiloi National Park?

A park is a remarkable place in Kenya that allows its visitors to enjoy a tour of Koobi Fora, and meet and interact with the local tribes like Gabbra, Dassanach, and Turkana. Besides, it allows guests to enjoy activities like bird watching, camping, wildlife viewing, and archaeological exploration.

1- Koobi Fora Museum:

The museum provides a great insight into human evolution. It comprises the evidence of human and pre-human fossils remains of five species: the Australopithecus anamensis, the skull of the Homo habilis/rudolfensis dating two million years ago, the skull of the Paranthropus boisei, Homo erectus, and Homo sapiens.

2- Sand Dunes:

The dunes are best enjoyed on a four-wheeled drive. Enjoy the experience and the magnificent palm trees.

3- Lake Turkana:

Lake Turkana is one of the major attractions in the park. It is the largest desert lake in Africa. The color of the lake changes with time from blue to jade and grey. The color change happens due to the algae particles in the lake. Lake Turkana is the biggest of the Rift Valley Soda Lakes – its enormous proportions and striking color have led it to be called the Jade Sea.

4- Mount Sibiloi:

The remains of a Petrified Forest dating 7 million years ago were found at the volcanic mount. There is evidence of a cedar forest, based on the shores of the lake.

Other tourist activities at Sibiloi National Park:

Sibiloi National Park Safari Walk:

Explore nature wildlife on foot, an authentic and economical means of exploring wildlife in Mount Sibiloi.

Photography safari tours:

Visitors on a photo safari can share a photography tour with like-minded individuals and capture their favorite moments.

Cultural tours:

Cultural tours involve interaction with the local communities within Sibiloi National Park, which include tribes such as the Gabbra, Turkana, and Dassanach who are all communities with rich cultures.

How to get to Sibiloi National Park?

By Plane:

Visitors can fly from Nairobi to get to Lake Turkana-there are 2 airstrips. Other airstrips are found in Marsabit, Loiyangalani, Kalokol, North Horr, and Lodwar (Commercial Airstrip).

By Road:

By Road-It takes three days to get to Lake Turkana from Nairobi through Marsabit and North Horr or Maralal and South Horr. It is 800 KM from Nairobi.

You can also use the Nairobi to Kalokol route via Kitale and Lodwar. The park has three gates; Karsa gate (Main gate), Alia Bay, and Koobi Fora.

Accommodation at Sibiloi National Park

Lodges:

Lodges and camps are exclusive and luxurious with views amongst the most spectacular in the world along with world-class service, incredible food, and all luxury amenities, simply ideal for the perfect luxury location.

Hotels and lodges near Sibiloi include Sanfields Lodwar Camp offering a restaurant, a snack bar/deli, and a picnic area as well as a free continental breakfast and free WiFi in public areas.

Other good choices in the area include the Eliye Springs Resort, Proland Inn Ltd, Desert Rose Kenya, Palm Shade Resort, and Malobo Resort.

Campsites:

Camp Turkana and Koobi Fora Base Camp provide campsite provisions and more, including toilets and running water.

Campervan:

Guests on a safari game drive by themselves in a campervan can make significant savings by sleeping in their vehicle.

Best time to go

The most preferable time is between March and March during crocodile bleeding and bird migration back to Europe. Otherwise, you can visit all year round given the climatic conditions of this area.

Arrange with Ultimate Wild Safaris for this tour in Northern Kenya.

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