The Chalbi Desert is a desert in northern Kenya near the country’s border with Ethiopia. It is named after Lake Chalbi, which is now almost entirely dry. Located between Mount Marsabit and Lake Turkana, the desert covers an area of about 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles). That being said, Marsabit town is the nearest major urban center to the desert.
The climate of the Chalbi Desert is hot and dry. On average, the temperature is around 40°C (104°F) during the hot days and can drop to below freezing at night. There is very little rainfall, and what does fall is often lost to evaporation.
The landscape of the Chalbi Desert is characterized by flat plains and isolated hills. The soil is sandy and salty and supports only a few hardy plants. There are no permanent human settlements in the desert, although some pastoralists move their herds of cattle and camels through the area in search of grazing land.
The Chalbi Desert is an important site for paleontological research. Fossils of early humans and pre-human ancestors have been found in the area, along with remains of animals that lived in the region millions of years ago.
Despite its harsh conditions, the Chalbi Desert is a beautiful place. The landscape is stark and otherworldly, and the night sky is filled with stars. If you are lucky enough to visit this remote corner of Kenya, you will be sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Must Read: A Travel Guide to Kenya