Lodwar

Overview

Lodwar is the only town of significance west of the lake. If you want to get to Lake Turkana from the west side, you will have to pass through Lodwar. The town is an adventure in itself. Because of the poverty in the area, you will be persistently hassled by people wanting to sell you trinkets, and begging takes on a whole new level here.

Yes, begging does take on a whole new level, but if the city you came from had an average longevity of 45 years-old, I'm sure you'd beg for that one meal a day, too.  If 160/1000 infants died in their first year in your city, I'm sure that you would ask someone for that meal for them.  If drought and insecurity destroyed your livelihood and you were forced to migrate to town to sell wood and make crafts for a living, I'm sure you'd beg also.  If someone is ignored by the rest of humanity, he would beg.

Still, I recommend staying at least one night here to get the feel of a unique town. The Turkwel Hotel (# (0393) 21201) is the best place to stay. The singles/doubles are cottages with fans, mosquito nets and bathrooms. They cost KSh 400/800 and include breakfast. Singles with shared bathrooms run KSh 300. The food here isn't bad and it�s the center of the town�s night life. Relax outside or step into the lively bar and cool off with a few cold beers.

If the Turkwel Hotel is full, or...more

History