Eliye Springs Resort

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Eliye Springs Resort

Eliye Springs Resort is one of Kenya's most distinctive remote beach resorts, located on the western shores of Lake Turkana in Turkana County. It combines desert landscapes, white sandy beaches, and the world's largest permanent desert lake, making it a destination for adventure travelers, researchers, filmmakers, photographers, and visitors seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. 

Location

  • County: Turkana County, Kenya

  • Nearest town: Lodwar (approximately 50 km away)

  • Setting: Western shore of Lake Turkana

  • Environment: Desert landscape with palm trees, freshwater springs, volcanic scenery, and white sand beaches. 

History

The resort has operated since 2008. It has evolved from a simple lakeside lodge into a larger resort. According to the resort, changing lake levels and environmental conditions prompted a redevelopment, leading to the construction of elevated Cliff Cabins overlooking Lake Turkana as part of its transition toward the planned "Eliye Cliff Lodge." 

Accommodation

The resort offers several lodging options for different budgets:

1. Cliff Cabins

Premium accommodation overlooking Lake Turkana.

Approximate rates (Half Board):

  • Single: KSh 15,700

  • Double: KSh 18,900

  • Triple: KSh 22,100

  • Four guests: KSh 25,300 

2. Standard Rooms

Half-board pricing:

  • Single: KSh 9,600

  • Double: KSh 16,000 

3. Family Cliff Cabins

Designed for families and groups. 

4. Traditional Manyattas

Traditional Turkana-style huts that provide a cultural accommodation experience. 

5. Camping

Guests may:

  • Rent resort tents.

  • Bring their own tents at lower rates. 

Dining

The resort operates:

  • A restaurant serving international cuisine with an Italian influence.

  • A fully stocked bar.

  • Outdoor dining with views over Lake Turkana. 

Activities

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Swimming (where conditions are safe)

  • Beach relaxation

  • Sunset viewing

  • Boat excursions

  • Beach volleyball

  • Water sports

  • Darts

  • Pool table

  • Cultural performances

  • Birdwatching

  • Photography

  • Fishing excursions

  • Film production support 

Sport Fishing

Lake Turkana is renowned for:

  • Large Nile perch (some exceeding 50 kg)

  • Tiger fish

  • Tilapia

  • Catfish

The resort organizes guided fishing trips and expeditions to nearby islands, including protected areas where applicable. 

Cultural Experiences

A major attraction is interaction with the Turkana people.

Experiences include:

  • Visits to traditional Turkana homesteads

  • Traditional dances

  • Songs

  • Cultural ceremonies

  • "Agata" blessing performed by Turkana elders

  • Handicraft shopping 

Peace and Cultural Initiatives

The resort has developed programs that extend beyond hospitality, including:

  • Cultural theatre productions

  • Peacebuilding activities involving Turkana and Pokot communities

  • Refugee cultural events with participants from Kakuma

  • Film productions focused on social issues

  • Community cultural festivals 

Corporate Social Responsibility

The resort reports involvement in projects such as:

  • Supporting local schools

  • Improving community health facilities

  • Paying school fees

  • Providing emergency medical transport

  • Employing local residents

  • Promoting local handicrafts

  • Supporting water access projects 

Nearby Attractions

Visitors often combine a stay with trips to:

  • Central Island National Park

  • South Island National Park

  • Sibiloi National Park

  • Turkana villages

  • Lake Turkana shoreline

  • Volcanic landscapes

  • Desert scenery 

Accessibility

By Road

  • Approximately 50 km from Lodwar.

  • Accessible via the Lodwar–Eliye road, though road conditions can vary by season. 

By Air

A nearby airstrip supports charter flights for visitors and tour groups. 

Best Time to Visit

The destination is generally suitable year-round, but the most comfortable periods are typically:

  • June–September

  • December–February

These months tend to offer drier conditions and favorable weather for outdoor activities.

Guest Ratings

Current public rating:

  • 4.2/5

  • 359 reviews Eliye Springs Resort

Visitors commonly praise:

  • Spectacular scenery

  • Quiet and remote atmosphere

  • Beautiful beach

  • Friendly staff

  • Unique desert-meets-lake environment

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