If you’ve ever dreamed of standing in the middle of an endless salt flat, with only the wind and distant camel bells breaking the silence, then the Chalbi Desert Safari is your perfect adventure. Located in Kenya’s northern frontier, the Chalbi Desert is a rare and untouched gem that offers raw beauty, cultural depth, and surreal landscapes you won’t find anywhere else in East Africa.
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At Joe Photography and Safaris, we don’t just take you there – we help you capture every moment.
What Makes Chalbi Desert Safari Special?
The Chalbi Desert is Kenya’s only true desert. Its name comes from the Gabbra language, meaning “bare and salty.” Spanning a massive area east of Lake Turkana in Marsabit County, the desert was once an ancient lake that dried up, leaving behind salty crusts, sand dunes, and volcanic rocks.
Unlike mainstream parks, Chalbi offers more than wildlife – it’s about adventure, silence, and cultural interaction. It’s an ideal destination for travelers looking for something different, remote, and soul-stirring.
Where Is Chalbi Desert Located?
The Chalbi Desert is in Marsabit County, in northern Kenya. It lies to the east of Lake Turkana and can be accessed through Marsabit town, which serves as the main staging point for desert excursions.
- Chalbi Desert distance from Nairobi: Approximately 700 kilometers by road. Travel time ranges between 12–14 hours depending on your route and weather conditions.
- Marsabit to Chalbi Desert distance: About 100 kilometers, with travel by 4×4 taking 2–3 hours across rocky and sandy terrain.
Activities and Experiences in Chalbi Desert
1. Desert Game Drives and Dune Cruising
Drive across shimmering salt pans and ancient lava ridges in a rugged 4×4. The surreal expanse is broken only by mirages, scattered herders, and wild animals like oryx, ostriches, and hyenas.
2. Camel Safaris
Nothing compares to riding a camel through the desert, guided by local Gabbra warriors. It’s the most authentic way to connect with the spirit of Chalbi.
3. Cultural Encounters
Meet and interact with nomadic communities such as the Gabbra, Rendille, and Turkana. Learn about their traditional lifestyle, food, crafts, and storytelling passed down through generations.
4. Stargazing
The clear, dry skies of Chalbi provide spectacular night views. With zero light pollution, you’ll see stars in breathtaking detail.
5. Photography and Filming
Chalbi is a dream location for landscape photography and videography. The contrast of sand, rock, and sky creates award-winning frames – and we capture them for you.
Chalbi Desert Safari Packages
At Joe Photography and Safaris, we offer customized desert safari packages from Nairobi and Marsabit. Whether you’re an individual explorer, couple, group of friends, or family, we have a package for you.
| Package | Duration | Inclusions | Approx. Price |
| Chalbi Express | 3 Days | 4×4 transport from Marsabit, camping, meals, guide | KES 25,000 – 30,000 |
| Desert Explorer | 4 Days | Transport from Nairobi, lodge + camping, full board, guide | KES 45,000 – 55,000 |
| Cultural Circuit | 5 Days | Full itinerary with cultural visits, Lake Turkana add-on, filming | From KES 60,000 |
Each safari includes professional photography and videography coverage as part of our service.
Chalbi Desert Safari Price
Your adventure is more affordable than you think. Our prices are flexible based on group size and travel preferences. Budget tours with camping are cheaper, while luxury safaris that include lodge stays and flights are also available upon request.
Prices range from KES 25,000 to KES 70,000 per person, depending on duration and amenities.
Chalbi Desert Safari Entrance Fee
Chalbi Desert itself doesn’t have an official park entrance fee. However, if your safari includes a visit to Marsabit National Park or nearby crater lakes, you may pay a Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) fee ranging from KES 300 to KES 2,000 per person depending on your citizenship status.
Where to Stay – Chalbi Desert Hotels and Campsites
While the desert is mostly wild and open, accommodations are available in nearby towns or as part of the safari experience.
Lodging Options Near Chalbi Desert:
| Location | Lodging Option | Description |
| Marsabit Town | Nomads Trail Hotel | Comfortable rooms with restaurant and secure parking |
| Kalacha Oasis | Desert Campsites | Basic tented campsites with local guides |
| North Horr | Guesthouses | Simple stays run by local families or NGOs |
Most of our safaris include either mobile camping in the desert or a combination of lodge and camping experiences.
Getting to Chalbi Desert
There are two main routes to reach the Chalbi Desert:
- By Road from Nairobi:
Route: Nairobi – Isiolo – Marsabit – Kalacha
This is the most scenic and immersive route but requires 4×4 vehicles. - By Air:
You can fly to Marsabit airstrip via chartered flights, then drive to Chalbi Desert with our team.
Whichever way you choose, we’ll handle the logistics to ensure a smooth and exciting journey.
Why Choose Joe Photography and Safaris?
- Personalized Attention: We treat each trip as a story worth capturing.
- Professional Media: High-quality photos and short videos delivered after your trip.
- Experienced Guides: Our team knows the terrain and the culture.
- Comfort & Safety: Well-equipped 4×4 vehicles and guided camping/lodge stays.
- Authentic Experiences: We go beyond the ordinary. From camel treks to coffee with locals, we craft moments that stay with you.
Book Your Chalbi Desert Safari Today
Chalbi is not just a destination. It’s a mood. A movement. A memory waiting to happen.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a content creator, or simply yearning for peace and silence far from the city – Chalbi Desert welcomes you.
Get in touch with us:
- Phone: 0717 563 531
- Email: info@joekphotography.co.ke
- Website: Joe Photography and Safaris
Let’s explore together. We’ll capture every step.
FAQ on Chalbi Desert Safari
How do I get to Chalbi Desert from Nairobi?
You can travel by road or air. By road, the journey takes approximately 12–14 hours from Nairobi through Isiolo and Marsabit. We recommend a 4×4 vehicle due to the rough terrain. You can also fly to Marsabit and continue to the desert by road with our tour vehicles.
What is included in the Chalbi Desert Safari package?
Our packages include 4×4 transport, professional guide services, accommodation (camping or lodge), meals, bottled water, park entry (if applicable), cultural visits, and professional photography. We also provide a short highlight video for your social media at no extra cost.
What should I pack for the safari?
We recommend packing light clothing for daytime, a warm jacket for the chilly desert nights, sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, comfortable shoes, personal medication, and a camera. Don’t worry—we’ll handle the tents, meals, and transport.
Is Chalbi Desert safe for tourists?
Yes. With proper planning and local guidance, Chalbi Desert is safe to visit. At Joe Photography and Safaris, we work with experienced guides familiar with the region and its communities. We also ensure that our vehicles are well-equipped for emergencies.
Are there any accommodation options in Chalbi Desert?
Yes, though they are basic. Most visitors stay in Marsabit town or Kalacha and explore the desert during the day. We offer well-organized mobile camping in the desert or can arrange overnight stays at select guesthouses or eco-camps near the desert.