Things To Do
in Lodwar
Lodwar is a town located in northwestern Kenya, serving as the capital of Turkana County. It is situated along the Turkwel River and is known for its hot and arid climate. The town is a significant hub for trade and commerce, particularly for livestock and fish products.
Lodwar is also a gateway to popular tourist attractions in the region, such as Lake Turkana and the Central Island National Park.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Lodwar Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Turkana people. Engage with local guides to gain insights into traditional practices.
Take a walk around Lodwar town to experience the vibrant market scenes and local crafts. Enjoy some traditional Turkana cuisine for lunch.
Relax at a local café and enjoy the sunset views. Engage in conversation with locals to learn more about their daily lives.
Start with a guided hike to the nearby hills for breathtaking views of the Turkana landscape. Observe local wildlife and unique flora.
Enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the natural beauty. Continue exploring the trails and take photographs of the stunning vistas.
Head back to town and have dinner at a restaurant that serves local dishes. Spend the evening stargazing in the clear desert sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lodwar is a gateway to the scenic landscapes and natural attractions of Turkana County, including Lake Turkana, which is the world's largest desert lake.
- The region has a rich cultural heritage with diverse communities, offering unique opportunities for cultural exchange and tourism.
- The climate is semi-arid, providing a warm environment suitable for those who prefer hot weather.
- Lodwar is becoming increasingly accessible due to improvements in infrastructure and road networks.
- The area faces challenges such as limited access to clean water and healthcare facilities.
- Economic opportunities are scarce, leading to high levels of poverty and unemployment.
- Lodwar experiences frequent food insecurity due to droughts and climate change affecting agriculture.
- The region has basic amenities and services that may not meet the expectations of those used to urban living.
Best Activities in Lodwar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit Lake Turkana, the largest desert lake in the world, where you can enjoy fishing, bird watching, and boat trips.
Engage with the local Turkana community to learn about their culture through traditional dances, crafts, and storytelling.
Take a safari in the surrounding areas of Turkana to see unique wildlife, including the endangered Rothschild giraffe.
Explore the scenic landscapes and hills around Lodwar on foot to enjoy breathtaking views and discover local flora and fauna.
Experience the serene night skies of Turkana by camping outside and enjoying stargazing away from city lights.
Explore this national park known for its archaeological sites and rich biodiversity, ideal for adventurous outdoor activities.
Rent a kayak and paddle across the lake while enjoying the serene environment and unique landscapes.
Capture the stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unique wildlife of the Turkana region through guided photography sessions.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lodwar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lodwar
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Lake Turkana and the surrounding landscape.
An island in Lake Turkana providing picturesque scenes for photography.
A scenic site with panoramic views of the crater and its surroundings.
Known for its stunning landscapes and rock formations, perfect for photography.
Food in Lodwar
Lodwar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish made with sorghum and traditionally served with a stew of meat or vegetables. It can be found at local eateries and markets such as the Lodwar Market.
Must-Try!
A staple unleavened flatbread that is widely enjoyed in Lodwar. It is often served with various stews and can be found at street food stalls and small restaurants throughout the city.
With Lake Turkana nearby, fresh fish dishes, especially lobster and fish curry, are popular and can be savored at waterfront restaurants and local eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lodwar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lodwar Market is a bustling hub where visitors can experience the vibrancy of local food culture. Here, one can find an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food offerings, including grilled meats, chapati, and traditional snacks.
Along the shores of Lake Turkana, local vendors set up stands offering freshly caught lobster prepared in various ways. It's a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic culinary experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone, it's customary to greet them warmly. A handshake is common, but it’s important to use the right hand only, as the left hand is considered impolite.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Traditional attire is appreciated, but ensuring that clothes are not overly revealing is vital to show respect for local customs.
Be mindful of communal spaces, such as markets and gathering areas. It's important to be polite and not disrupt communal settings. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lodwar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lodwar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lodwar, tipping is not a common practice, but it may occur in some tourist-oriented establishments. Visitors may tip service staff in restaurants or hotels as a gesture of appreciation for good service. The amount is usually small, and it's generally considered optional rather than obligatory.
Payments in Lodwar can be made using cash, which is the preferred method in many local businesses. Mobile money services such as M-Pesa are widely used, providing a convenient way for individuals to send and receive payments. Credit and debit card transactions are less common, particularly in smaller shops and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lodwar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Lodwar, with hot and dry weather. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect extremely hot temperatures in Lodwar during this season, not recommended for outdoor activities.
Lodwar experiences some rainfall during this period, temperatures are relatively cooler compared to the hot season.
Cooler temperatures make it an enjoyable time to visit Lodwar, suitable for outdoor activities.
Lodwar at Night
Hiking in Lodwar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent peak located near Lodwar, known for its challenging hikes and stunning views of the surrounding terrain.
A series of hills that offer a variety of hiking trails and scenic vistas, perfect for both novice and experienced hikers.
While primarily a water body, the area around Lake Turkana offers numerous trails along the shores for hiking enthusiasts looking for unique landscapes.
Located to the north, this mountain features rugged trails and rich biodiversity, providing a great hiking experience.
Surrounding trails through the Turkana plains offer a chance to explore the vast landscapes typical of the region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lodwar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lodwar by plane.
The nearest major international airport, located about 265 kilometers from Lodwar, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 345 kilometers from Lodwar, this airport serves domestic and some regional international flights.
Located in Nairobi, approximately 600 kilometers from Lodwar, it is the largest international airport in Kenya, handling numerous international flights.
Located in Nairobi, about 600 kilometers from Lodwar, mainly serving domestic flights with some regional connections.
Located approximately 780 kilometers from Lodwar, it is the second largest international airport in Kenya, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Lodwar, the Turkana people are typically pastoralists and have a rich cultural heritage.
The Pokot community is present in the surrounding areas and shares some cultural similarities with the Turkana.
A significant presence in the region, the Kalenjin people contribute to the diverse cultural landscape of Lodwar.
Though less predominant, the Maasai community is also found in the vicinity, engaged in pastoralism and trade.
A smaller community within Lodwar, the Kisii people are mainly involved in trading and small-scale agriculture.
The Luo community has a minor presence in Lodwar, usually involved in trade and fishing along Lake Turkana.
The Soul of Lodwar
Discover the essence of Lodwar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Lodwar, with many local teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Lodwar, with local courts and teams emerging in recent years.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community events, enjoyed by both men and women in Lodwar.
Due to the region's favorable terrain, athletics, particularly long-distance running, is popular, with many local athletes participating in national competitions.
Rugby is growing in popularity, with local clubs engaging in both training and competitive matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lodwar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes are prevalent, many eateries in Lodwar offer vegetarian options such as vegetable stews, lentil dishes, and fresh salads. For vegans, it's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly, and some dishes can be customized to suit plant-based diets.
Rice-based dishes, fresh fruits, and some traditional flatbreads like chapati can be suitable for those seeking gluten-free options. For specific dietary needs, it's recommended to inquire with the staff at restaurants and food vendors for suitable choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lodwar with these cultural adventures.
