Hidden Turkana Beach That Attracted Wealthy Tourists in the '70s

An aerial view of the beaches of Eliye Springs in Turkana County
An aerial view of the beaches of Eliye Springs in Turkana County
Nomad magazine

When most people hear of Turkana, a dry deserted picture comes to mind. However, to adventurers and travel enthusiasts, Turkana County is home to beautiful beaches and breathtaking sceneries.

The beaches of Eliye Springs are hidden gems in the county that mimic the white sandy beaches of the coastal shorelines.

Often described as a beach paradise, Eliye beaches were a major tourist attraction in the 1970s. The affluent would hop into private jets to Kenya to enjoy a relaxing time at the beach.

A collage of the beaches of Eliye Springs in Turkana County
A collage of the beaches of Eliye Springs in Turkana County
Nomad magazine

Turkana is believed to be the 'cradle of mankind' so be assured to get ancient and mindblowing sites in the area. The county is home to the earliest human skeleton to be found in the world, a 1.6 million-year-old Turkana Boy.

Some of the activities to enjoy on the beach include boat rides, a view of Lake Turkana, swimming, a desert safari, etc.

While on the way, the beautiful sceneries of camels slowly walking on the desert sand will grasp your attention.

On the beach, you get to enjoy a picturesque view of the sunset as the sun dives into the unending waters creating a heavenly image in the sky. The sunrise is just as breathtaking, watch the sun emerge from the earth to usher in a new day.

You will also enjoy the exotic culture of the residents including the food. In the curio shops splash a few coins for a memento.

The area is decorated with endless palm trees that pave the way as you walk to the beach. An aerial view of the area may make you think it is outside Kenya let alone Turkana.

For accommodation, you have options ranging from tents, manyattas, bomas, and simple rooms. According to several tourists in the area, the manyattas are highly recommended to give you the full experience of the locals.

Other tourist attractions in Turkana include Central Island National Park, Ferguson Gulf, Kalokol Standing Stones, the hot waterfalls of Kapedo, and Lobolo Swamp among other mesmerising places.

All those visiting the area are urged to carry light clothes, lots of sunscreens, sunglasses, and of course a camera to capture the moment.

A sunset on the beaches of Eliye Springs in Turkana County
Sunset on the beaches of Eliye Springs in Turkana County
Wangechi Gitahi