Explore Kenya’s remote north on handcrafted, authentic safaris: budget overland expeditions and luxury fly-in helicopter journeys. Visit the Chalbi Desert, Kalacha Oasis, Lake Turkana’s Jade Sea, Ndoto Mountains, Samburu hinterlands and the Matthews Range — places few tourists ever see.
Off the Beaten Track Safaris in Kenya — Chalbi Desert, Lake Turkana & Northern Frontiers
6-Day Chalbi Desert & Lake Turkana — Budget Overland Expedition
6-Day Chalbi Desert & Lake Turkana — Budget Overland Expedition
Best for: Adventure travelers, photographers, budget explorers seeking remote Kenya desert experience.
Day 1 — Nairobi → Marsabit (via Isiolo & Laisamis)
Early departure in a 4×4 safari vehicle. Scenic stops for photos and refreshments. Afternoon exploration of Marsabit National Park — crater lakes (Lake Paradise), forested highlands and elephant corridors. Overnight budget lodge/camp.
Day 2 — Marsabit full-day: crater lakes & endemic birds
Full-day game drives searching for elephants, greater kudu, endemic desert and montane birds (ideal for birdwatching and endemic species photography).
Day 3 — Chalbi Desert crossing to Kalacha Oasis
Cross the salt flats and desert pans of the Chalbi Desert. Arrival at Kalacha Oasis for simple, comfortable camping. Sunset camel or foot walk and night sky photography.
Day 4 — Kalacha → Loiyangalani (Lake Turkana)
Drive to Loiyangalani on the shores of the “Jade Sea.” Visit El Molo and Rendille fishing/nomadic communities. Optional short boat trip to view crocodile basking sites and waterbird colonies.
Day 5 — Lake Turkana: hot springs, Desert Museum, petrified forests
Explore hot springs, the Desert Museum, and nearby volcanic formations. Cultural visits include demonstration of traditional fishing and boat building.
Day 6 — Return to Nairobi (via Isiolo)
Scenic drive back with stops at remote viewpoints and artisan markets. Arrive Nairobi in the evening.
- Included: 4×4 transport, budget lodges/camps, local driver-guide, park fees, meals (as indicated).
- Price guide: Economical (group rates) — contact for exact quotation.
Ready to cross the Chalbi on a true off-road expedition?
4-Day Chalbi Desert & Lake Turkana — Luxury Helicopter Safari
Best for: High-end travelers, aerial photographers, couples, VIP groups wanting minimal driving and maximum access.
Day 1 — Nairobi → Marsabit by private helicopter
Private helicopter charter from Wilson Airport crossing the Rift Valley and Mount Kenya. Champagne bush breakfast. Afternoon crater-lake safari and stay at a luxury lodge with panoramic views.
Day 2 — Helicopter scenic crossing to Kalacha Oasis & Chalbi Desert camp
Land in the heart of the Chalbi salt flats. Gourmet desert picnic, private cultural visit with Gabbra elders, evening camel ride and stargazing from a fully serviced luxury mobile camp.
Day 3 — Lake Turkana (Loiyangalani) — private boat & aerial photography
Short helicopter hop to Loiyangalani. Private boat to Central Island National Park for wildlife viewing (flamingoes, crocodiles) and aerial photography of volcanic islands. Stay in lakeside villa.
Day 4 — Return scenic flight to Nairobi
Final morning at leisure, hot springs visit, then helicopter flight back to Nairobi tracing the Suguta Valley and Laikipia plateaus.
- Included: private helicopter transfers, luxury accommodation, all meals, private guide, cultural donations, park & landing fees.
- Price guide: Premium — contact for full quotation and bespoke options.
Want Kenya’s northern frontier in VIP comfort?
| Feature | Budget Overland | Luxury Helicopter |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 days (overland) | 4 days (fly-in) |
| Transport | 4×4 safari vehicle | Private helicopter + short 4×4 transfers |
| Accommodation | Budget lodges & camps | Luxury tents, villas & serviced mobile camps |
| Highlights | Chalbi crossing, Kalacha, Lake Turkana, cultural visits | Central Island aerial tour, private landings, champagne sundowners |
| Best For | Adventurous budget travelers | Luxury travelers & photographers |
What’s Included:
All park entry fees (Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru)
Budget lodge and tented camp accommodations
Meals as per itinerary
Safari van with pop-up roof for game viewing
Professional local driver-guide
Bottled drinking water
Lake Naivasha boat ride
What’s Not Included:
International flights
Travel insurance
Optional Maasai village visit
Personal expenses & tips
Why Book with African Affarble Expedition Limited?
Locally owned, locally guided — authentic and knowledgeable.
Affordable safaris without compromising quality.
Over 20 years of experience guiding in Kenya.
Support for local communities and conservation projects.
