This isn’t Dubai; this is Turkana, Kenya. Lying deep within northern Kenya, Suguta Valley may resemble Dubai’s most famous desert shots, but it’s a world of its own.
Because of its arid conditions, many have nicknamed it the “Valley of Death,” but this area carries a beauty that is as raw as it gets.
Carved by long-forgotten lakes and volcanoes, towering cliffs, and the sheen of sand dunes, Suguta Valley is one place where no desert resort could ever try to match.
Where is Suguta Valley Located?
It is located in Kajiado County in Kenya. Lies just south of Lake Turkana, the world’s largest desert lake.
It stretches about 50 kilometres wide and is bounded to the east by the Losiolo Escarpment, where great views across the rift can be seen.
How to Get to Suguta Valley
Reaching Suguta Valley is not a small task at hand, and the paths are rough; a 4×4 is absolutely necessary.
Many tourists travel here with guided expeditions that usually start from Nairobi or Maralal.
Even helicopter tours are famous for those who need a more luxurious and speedier route, offering an aerial view of the great landscapes that include Lake Logipi and the Barrier Volcano.
Activities to Do in Suguta Valley
1. Exploring Suguta Sand Dunes
Suguta Valley comprises endless dunes evoking the Martian landscape. The dunes can be trekked on or taken in during a breathtaking helicopter tour.
2. Visiting the Suguta Mud Flats
In the rainy season, the Suguta Mud Flats form a shallow, sparkling lake known as Lake Alablad.
These mud flats are a photographer’s dream because of the reflective surfaces that reflect the sky.
In the dry season, there are huge expanses of cracked earth which add to the beauty of the valley.
3. Hiking to Aruba Rock
Aruba Rock presents fabulous views over the valley and further behind Lake Logipi for the more adventurous travellers.
4. The Death Suguta Valley Sightseeing
With extreme temperatures and a history of cattle rustling, Suguta Valley certainly has reasons to be known as “The Valley of Death.”
Having said that, it now offers a surreal beauty in the present day that few bold explorers will experience.
5. Suguta River Exploration
Seasonal River This river flows through this valley and feeds Lake Logipi, creating temporary lakes like Alablad Lake.
The banks of the river are adorned with doum palms, a real relief and a rare sight of greenery in this otherwise arid environment.
Final Thoughts and Tips
Visiting Suguta Valley is not for the faint of heart.
The tough climate, combined with difficult-to-pass terrain, further nominates this as a destination that only a well-prepared traveller should risk venturing into.
However, for those who do make the journey, Suguta offers something no other destination does-a true escape into one of the last untouched wildernesses of Kenya.
Be sure to carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and camping gear, as amenities are few and far between.
