South Island National Park – National Park in Lake Turkana

South Island National Park covers a volcanic island in the southern part of Lake Turkana, the vast desert lake often called the Jade Sea for the colour of its water. With Central Island and Sibiloi, it is part of the Lake Turkana National Parks World Heritage Site, and it is also a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve and an Important Bird Area.

The island is a rugged landscape of ash, lava and small craters with almost no permanent human settlement. It supports large numbers of Nile crocodiles, venomous snakes and other reptiles, and its shores and cliffs are used by nesting and migrating birds. The lake around it holds ancient fish species such as Nile perch and tigerfish, and strong winds can whip up the water quickly.

Visits are arranged by boat, usually from Loiyangalani on the south-eastern shore, where the Desert Museum explains the history and cultures of the area. Private camps and lodges in the region host visitors. Trip details and fees are on the KWS South Island National Park page.