The 'Big North': 9 reasons to visit Kenya's wonderful and unexplored(by tourists) North

Dense forests, lakes, oasis, desert, sand dunes, camels, volcanic rocks, rivers and wild animals are just a glimpse of what the 'Big North' has to offer. Far away up in the North, this region is unexplored(by tourists) but rich in landscapes and experiences. Despite spending 80% of the trip on the road, it will remain the best trip yet owing to its perfect blend of wilderness, culture and epic adventure! And the cherry on top? The evident responsible and ethical tourism. Accommodation, food and tour guides were all managed by locals with little or no foreign interference.

For your next adventure to the 'Big North', consider visiting:

1. Mt Ololokwe

The scenic drive towards Marsabit reveals a 'massive rock' by the roadside named Mt. Ololokwe. Good news hikers! You have your next challenge right here. Although my itinerary did not include a hike, I hear it is quite the challenge with an amazing view of the surrounding landscapes(plains, hills and shrubs) at the peak. Next time maybe?

#MtOlolokwe

2. Lake Paradise

Lake Paradise sits at the heart of Marsabit National Park, surrounded by dense forest, and if you're timing is just right, you can witness elephants as they drink water from the lake. (I was not so lucky)

#LakeParadise

3. Chalbi desert

Chalbi desert is one of the hottest and most arid places in Kenya and approximately 100 kilometres from Marsabit. The tarmac abruptly ends and transforms into a rough sandy road, therefore I'd recommend a powerful 4x4 and skilful driver. You will travel long distances before any sight of life, usually in the form camels and their herders or a small village

#ChalbiDesert

#Chalbidesert #TravelBlogger

4. Sand dunes in Chalbi desert

Located in North Horr(approximately 194 km from Marsabit) sits the sand dunes that provides an inexpensive and local opportunity to experience a desert safari! Here you can enjoy a sunset/sunrise as you sip your favourite beer/cider. Great photos too!

#SandDunes

#Sunset #SandDunes

#Marsabit #SandDunes

5. Lake Turkana

Mother nature never ceases to amaze, creating a lake with many wonders. Lake Turkana has no outflow, has a caldera(crater formed when a volcano collapses) and is one of the world's largest desert lake. Also home to the best-tasting fish I've had and that, unfortunately, means my taste buds have been spoilt.

#LakeTurkana

6. El-molo village

El-Molo village, a tiny island in Lake Turkana, is home to the smallest tribe in Kenya,the El-Molo people. Here, there is a chance to enjoy a boat ride to the island, to learn more about the culture and purchase some locally made handicrafts. Experiencing and learning more about a new culture is always the highlight of any trip.

#ElmoloVillage #LakeTurkana

#Handmade

7. Lake Turkana wind power

Lake Turkana wind power covers an area of 600 square kilometres comprising of 365 wind turbines. The journey to South Horr gave me an opportunity to see a few, although, from all the buzz about the amount of electricity it produces, I can't imagine how amazing a drive around the wind farm would be.

#LakeTurkanaWindFarms

8. Ndoto mountains

The Ndoto Mountains are on the Northern end of Samburu county. It has been notorious for insecurity for a long period of time but I am glad it has opened up recently. Hope the hikers are still with me, here is your next adventure number 2! There are several hiking trails ranging from beginner to expert level. Additionally, waking up surrounded by a series of mountains is worth the long, off-road dusty road.

#NdotoMountains

9. Natural pools in Ngurunit

The natural pools in Ngurunit are situated in the middle of Ndoto mountains after a brief 6km hike. So non-hikers, this can be your adventure! The natural pools will give you an adrenaline rush and also the perfect hangover cure in my opinion(I endorse this message)!

A few reminders for your next trip:

1. It is hot. No seriously, it is hot hot

Be sure to carry lots of sunscreen, water, sunglasses and a hat. It is also dusty so be prepared to deal with a constant 'natural' makeup look

2. Be careful when taking pictures of camels

The herders are notorious for asking for payment if you take pictures of their camels. To avoid any hassle, be careful while taking pictures

3. Safety

I would recommend using a travel company or local tour guide past Marsabit because of insecurity. The drivers were instructed to drive non-stop and maintain a certain speed to keep all the passengers safe. We were also in an envoy for added security

4. Road terrain

I'd recommend using a 4x4. A reliable one at that.

5. Accommodation and food

Accommodation and food were catered by the tour company. If you are planning to do the trip solo I'd recommend contacting a local to map out the stops and accommodation. It is easy to get lost given the fact that the network is limited, therefore google maps as a guide is out of the question

6. Network

Expect to be disconnected most of the trip as the network is not that great. But trust me, you will be so distracted you won't even notice.

Total duration of trip: 4 days 3 nights

Total cost: 28,000

Tour company: Starboard safaris Chalbi desert extreme

#StarboardSafaris #BestTripEver