Marsabit County, often called the Cradle of Mankind, is famed for its prehistoric heritage, diverse landscapes, and cultural richness.
Home to the Koobi Fora deposits, globally renowned for fossil discoveries that have advanced the understanding of human evolution, the county is an adventure and heritage destination like no other in Kenya.
It covers 70,961 km² (about 12% of Kenya’s total landmass), making it the country’s largest county.
Its geography is a striking mix of dense misty forests, volcanic craters, deserts, lakes, and mountain ranges.
The county headquarters is in Marsabit Town, and it shares a 500-km border with Ethiopia, positioning it as a vital trade and cultural exchange hub.
Key Attractions & Natural Features
Marsabit National Park
A lush forest sanctuary surrounding three crater lakes, the park is home to rare big-tusked elephants, including the legendary Ahmed of Marsabit, who was declared a “living monument” in the 1970s and placed under 24-hour guard by presidential decree.
Other wildlife includes buffalo, kudu, lions, leopards, Grevy’s zebras, hyenas, dik-diks, and diverse bird species.
Lake Paradise
A stunning crater lake surrounded by steep wooded slopes, famously documented by early filmmakers Osa and Martin Johnson. It remains a vital watering spot for elephants and other wildlife.
Chalbi Desert
The only true desert in East Africa—an expanse of shimmering salt pans, sand dunes, and seasonal oases. It’s traversed by the nomadic Gabbra with their camel caravans and is home to oryx, ostrich, and endangered Grevy’s zebra.
Lake Turkana
The world’s largest desert lake and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, fringed by the South Island National Park, a breeding ground for Nile crocodiles and migratory birds.
Mount Kulal Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO-recognized volcanic mountain offering hiking trails, unique biodiversity, and panoramic views.
Ngurnit Rock Cliffs
A hotspot for rock climbing enthusiasts, surrounded by Samburu cultural heritage.
Singing Wells
An age-old tradition where pastoralists draw water for livestock while chanting rhythmic songs, blending functionality with cultural expression.
Cultural Heritage
Marsabit hosts 14 indigenous communities, including Borana, Rendille, Gabra, Samburu, Turkana, Somali, and Burji—making it one of Kenya’s most culturally diverse counties. This diversity is celebrated at the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival, and preserved at the Desert Museum in Loiyangalani, which displays traditional artefacts and regalia.
Climate
The county’s climate ranges from arid to semi-arid, with significant temperature variation:
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Chalbi Desert: February highs over 36°C; July lows around 18°C; cool nights year-round.
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Highlands (Marsabit Mountain): Cooler and wetter, with mist and more regular rainfall.
Economy
The economy revolves around:
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Pastoralism – camels, goats, sheep, and cattle.
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Fishing – particularly on Lake Turkana.
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Tourism – heritage, wildlife, adventure, and cultural tourism.
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Trade – especially cross-border commerce via Moyale.
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Renewable Energy – including the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project.
Challenges
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Climate change and recurrent droughts.
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Insecurity from resource-based conflicts.
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Limited infrastructure in remote areas.
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Water scarcity in arid zones.
Opportunities
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Expansion of eco-tourism and adventure travel.
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Leveraging heritage tourism around Koobi Fora and cultural festivals.
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Enhancing renewable energy projects.
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Strengthening cross-border trade under AfCFTA.