Rising under the magical landscape of the Great Rift Valley in eastern Africa, Rudolf Lake, formerly known as Lake Turkana in modern times. This lake, which has a magnificent presence in the northwest of Kenya, is a rare natural formation that bears the titles of “the world’s largest permanent desert lake” and “the largest alkaline lake”.
The world’s oldest human fossil has been found around the lake, which is also of great archaeological importance. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997, the lake and its surrounding protected areas reflect a magical texture of nature.
In this meaningful geography, Nabiotum, one of the most famous and impressive craters in Kenya, stands out with its majestic presence. The unique beauty of Lake Turkana and the juxtaposition of this crater stand deep in history like a sacred monument. The most distinctive feature of the crater is its steep and high slopes rising like a funnel. This pit is bordered at almost every point by an unusual alkaline lake. Winning the title of the largest crater lake in the world, Nabiotum is located in Lake Turkana.
Adventurous travelers who want to experience these natural beauties for themselves should prepare themselves for long and dangerous expeditions. The crater and lake are about 70 kilometers from the nearest town, Lodvar. This distance may come as a simple hurdle for seasoned travelers. However, the complexity of the road and the dangerous areas it contains should not be overlooked. The fastest inhabitants of the wilderness are a major source of danger for tourists. It is therefore not recommended to explore the crater without a safe guide.
Structure and Characteristics of Lake Turkana
Embraced by the Great Rift Valley, this lake captivates with its impressive scenery. This lake, with an average depth of 30 meters, is located on the territory of the Great Rift Valley, and its dimensions are quite impressive; It stands out with a length of approximately 290 km and a width of 32 km. The total surface area reaches 6405 km².
Austrian explorer Ludwig von Henel and Hungarian traveler Samuel Teleki are among those who discovered Lake Turkana. They named this beautiful lake after the Austrian Crown Prince Rudolf, hence it is also referred to as Rudolph Lake. However, it was named Lake Turkana in the 1970s and is now referred to under two names.
The fact that the lake has more than one volcanic island on its territory makes it even more interesting. Besides the lake, the South Island is one of the largest and most famous volcanic islands. This island has active volcanoes and is rich in flora and fauna. Various species such as birds, snakes and bats are found on this island. In addition, the Arabic incense plant is among the remarkable plants on the island.
As Kenya’s only permanent source of water, it is of great importance to the life of the region. The lake is home to a number of different fish and plant species that feed the ecosystem in and around Kenya. Creatures such as catfish, puffer fish, Nile perch, Nile crocodile, hippopotamus, cormorant and kingfisher living in the lake enrich this ecosystem. The lake is known to be home to a large crocodile population, with around 12,000 crocodiles living in these waters.
The high temperatures and desert climate in the region cause the lake’s water to evaporate and therefore the lake loses water over the years. However, rains that fall every five years increase the water level somewhat. Thus, derelict fishing boats adorn the shores and the region attracts nature photographers.
World’s Oldest Human Fossil; Turkana Boy
The area around Lake Turkana is of great archaeological importance. Many artifacts from the prehistoric period have been discovered here. The world’s oldest stone tools, estimated to be about 3.3 million years old, appeared on the lake shore. In addition, the world’s oldest human fossil “Turkana Boy” was discovered around the lake. This fossil, dated to 1.6 million years ago, is a great resource for understanding human history.
The fossils found near Lake Turkana, designated KNM-WT 15000, belong to the early Pleistocene period, dated to about 1.5-1.6 million years ago and thought to be 11-13 years old. These fossils are called “Turkana Child” or “Nariokotome Child”.
The fossils were found by a team led by renowned paleontologist Richard Leakey, and the finds were uncovered in 1984 in Kenya’s Lake Turkana region near Nariokotome. This fossil holds an important place in human evolution studies because it offers valuable insight into the lifestyle and morphology of early human species.
Provides detailed information about the Turkana Child’s skeleton, body structure, bone development and anatomy. Clues to the child’s growth pattern and lifestyle have given anthropologists more insight into early human evolution. This fossil is considered a critical source of evidence for understanding the anatomical and behavioral evolution of the human species.
Life Around Lake Turkana and Getting to the Lake
The area around Lake Turkana is an area with limited technology and a natural lifestyle. The region, which has basic livelihoods such as fishing, animal husbandry and limited agriculture, is also home to archaeological and paleontological riches. Despite these difficult living conditions, Lake Turkana is a real source of life for the locals. This lake, which is called the Jade Sea, which means “Sea of Life”, is the carrier of geography and natural beauties.
Local people live around Lake Turkana as a region that keeps their traditions and cultures alive. This region is one of the rare places that has preserved an unspoiled African culture and authenticity. The local people, who gradually started to get a share from tourism, present examples to tourists with their traditional dances and ceremonies.
Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, is the main entry point to reach Lake Turkana. Turkish Airlines has direct flights from Istanbul Airport to Nairobi. Alternatively, transportation can be provided via transit points such as Cairo, Doha or Dubai. The Lake Turkana area has direct flight options from Nairobi. Flights operate five days a week, arriving at Lodwar Airport and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
