Central Island National Park
Discover Kenya’s most remote and dramatic volcanic island in Lake Turkana, home to flamingos, crocodiles, and crater lakes surrounded by rugged desert beauty.
Book Remote Safari Experience📍 Location
Lake Turkana, Northern Kenya
🌋 Type
Volcanic Island National Park
📏 Size
Approx. 5 km²
Overview of Central Island National Park
Central Island National Park is one of Kenya’s most unique and remote protected areas. Located in the middle of Lake Turkana, it is a volcanic island characterized by three active crater lakes and rugged lava landscapes.
The park is part of the Lake Turkana National Parks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its geological significance and biodiversity.
Often referred to as “The Crocodile Island,” it is famous for its large populations of Nile crocodiles that breed along the shores of its crater lakes.
Visiting Central Island is not just a safari — it is an expedition into one of Africa’s most untouched and dramatic environments.
Landscape & Geological Features
Central Island is a volcanic formation rising dramatically from the waters of Lake Turkana. Its terrain is rugged, rocky, and shaped by ancient lava flows and volcanic eruptions.
The island is home to three crater lakes:
- Crocodile Lake: Known for large crocodile populations
- Flamingo Lake: Attracts thousands of flamingos
- Tilapia Lake: Supports fish and birdlife
The combination of volcanic terrain, steaming vents, and colorful lakes creates a surreal and otherworldly landscape.
Wildlife in Central Island National Park
Despite its harsh environment, Central Island supports a surprising diversity of wildlife adapted to extreme conditions.
🐊 Crocodiles
The island is one of Africa’s most important breeding grounds for Nile crocodiles, with hundreds found along the crater lakes.
🦩 Birds
Flamingos gather in large numbers, along with pelicans, gulls, and other water birds.
🐟 Aquatic Life
Fish species thrive in some of the crater lakes, supporting bird populations.
Things to Do in Central Island
- Boat excursions across Lake Turkana
- Hiking volcanic terrain
- Bird watching and flamingo viewing
- Photography of crater lakes
- Crocodile observation tours
Due to its remote nature, activities are guided and carefully planned for safety.
How to Get to Central Island
Access to Central Island is typically via:
- Chartered flights to Lodwar
- Boat transfer across Lake Turkana
- Organized expedition tours
This is a remote destination and requires advance planning.
Accommodation Options
There are no permanent lodges on Central Island. Visitors stay in:
- Mobile safari camps
- Lodges in Lodwar town
- Lake Turkana expedition camps
All accommodation is arranged as part of guided safari packages.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry months (June–September and December–March) when travel conditions are easier and wildlife is more visible.
3–4 Day Central Island Expedition
Day 1: Flight to Lodwar, transfer to Lake Turkana
Day 2: Boat trip to Central Island, exploration
Day 3: Hiking, birdwatching, photography
Day 4: Return journey
Book Your Remote Kenya Safari Adventure
Experience one of Africa’s most untouched destinations with Mara Triangle Safaris. We organize full expedition safaris including flights, boats, guides, and accommodation.
📧 info@maratrianglesafaris.co.ke
Plan Your Safari