Prepare to journey into the heart of Kenya’s northern frontier, where the mystical Chalbi Desert stretches like an endless sea of salt flats and sand dunes. This adventure takes you through Marsabit’s lush volcanic highlands and into the vast, arid expanses of the Chalbi Desert, creating a stunning contrast of ecosystems. Experience the unique cultures of the Rendille and Gabbra communities, encounter desert-adapted wildlife, and marvel at the beauty of Lake Paradise in Marsabit National Park. This safari combines raw wilderness with rich cultural immersion, making it ideal for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in one of Kenya’s most remote regions.
Trip Highlights:
Camp under the vast desert skies in Chalbi, where the stars shine brighter than anywhere else.
Explore Marsabit National Park, an oasis of wildlife within highland forests and volcanic craters.
Venture across Chalbi Desert’s vast salt flats, where mirages and shifting sands create a surreal landscape.
Visit the Rendille and Gabbra villages to experience the cultural richness and resilience of Kenya’s desert tribes.
Discover Lake Paradise, a crater lake within Marsabit, where elephants, buffalo, and unique birdlife gather.
Itinerary
Arrive in Marsabit and check into your lodge near Marsabit National Park. This beautiful, isolated town is an oasis surrounded by lush highland forests that contrast strikingly with the arid desert landscapes beyond.
After lunch, set off to explore Marsabit National Park, home to the serene Lake Paradise, a crater lake where elephants, buffaloes, and rare highland birds gather. Take in the lush surroundings as you search for these animals and enjoy the surreal landscape of towering trees and volcanic craters.
Savor a packed lunch by Lake Paradise, with a view of wildlife grazing nearby and a chance to see flamingos and unique bird species.
Enjoy a traditional Kenyan dinner at your lodge, featuring dishes such as nyama choma (grilled meat), served with seasonal vegetables and ugali (maize porridge).
Accommodation: Marsabit Lodge or Lake Paradise Lodge, both offering comfortable stays near the park with beautiful views over the highlands.
After breakfast, set off towards the vast expanse of the Chalbi Desert, known for its stunning salt flats and sand dunes. The journey takes you through scenic volcanic landscapes and scattered desert communities, providing a glimpse into the isolation and beauty of this region.
Stop for a picnic lunch at North Horr Oasis, a vital green space in this arid region that serves as a lifeline for desert communities and their camel caravans. Enjoy a refreshing break in this lush desert oasis.
Venture deeper into the Chalbi Desert, where you’ll explore salt flats and sand dunes that stretch endlessly. Join a camel caravan led by Rendille guides for an authentic desert experience and learn how local tribes navigate and survive in the desert’s harsh conditions.
Evening Meal: After reaching camp, enjoy a fireside dinner prepared by your guides, featuring grilled goat and traditional flatbreads. Gather around the campfire to listen to stories of the desert from your guides, surrounded by the silence of the Chalbi and a star-studded sky.
Accommodation: Desert Rose Lodge or Chalbi Desert Campsite—both offer an immersive desert experience, from rustic camping to luxury eco-lodge options.
Begin the day with a visit to a nearby Rendille village, where you’ll gain insight into the desert lifestyle of this proud, resilient community. Engage with locals to learn about their traditions, camel herding practices, and intricate jewelry-making. This visit provides an authentic cultural exchange that showcases the remarkable ways of life adapted to desert survival.
Enjoy a farewell lunch with the Rendille community, sampling traditional foods such as camel milk and local grains, before starting your return journey to Marsabit.
Afternoon Departure: Head back to Marsabit town, taking in the landscapes you’ve explored on this remarkable journey into Kenya’s desert heart. Upon arrival, enjoy some relaxation time before a farewell dinner.
Evening Meal:* Conclude your safari with a dinner at your lodge, celebrating your adventures with a hearty Kenyan feast of roasted meats, local greens, and fresh fruits.
Accommodation: Marsabit Lodge or Lake Paradise Lodge, for your final night in the captivating northern highlands.
