Central Island

Central Island is a volcanic island located in Lake Turkana in Turkana County, northern Kenya. It is protected as Central Island National Park and is included in the Lake Turkana National Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The island’s volcanic crater and rocky shoreline are its main attractions, together with thermal features and springs. It is also important for wildlife, supporting seasonal colonies of waterbirds and areas where Nile crocodiles are commonly reported.

The island is of volcanic origin and formed through eruptions that left a central crater and lava flows. It has been protected under Kenya’s national parks system and recognized within the broader Lake Turkana World Heritage listing for its geological and ecological values.

Central Island lies in the central part of Lake Turkana, in a remote area of northern Kenya; the nearest regional town with services is Lodwar. Visits require boat transport from the lakeshore and coordination with Kenya Wildlife Service.

• Protection status: Part of the Lake Turkana National Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site and managed as Central Island National Park by the Kenya Wildlife Service.
• Access: Access is by boat from the lake shore and visits require park permits and local arrangements due to the island's remote location.

What to See #

• Crater: A volcanic crater that forms the central high ground of the island and contains rocky outcrops and scattered vegetation.
• Hot springs: Areas of warm springs and fumaroles on and near the crater rim that are visible as mineral stains and localized vegetation changes.
• Bird colonies: Seasonal colonies of waterbirds that use the island for breeding and roosting, including large wader and flamingo populations at times of high water.