"Jiunge na maisha ya Lodwar | Embrace the life of Lodwar"
About:
Lodwar, the largest town in Turkana County, Kenya, was established in the early 20th century by British colonizers as a trading post. Its growth was spurred by its strategic location along the Turkwel River. Post-independence, it became the administrative center of Turkana District. In the late 20th century, Lodwar gained prominence as a refuge for Sudanese and Ethiopian refugees. Today, it's a key hub for humanitarian aid due to ongoing regional droughts and conflicts, and is also developing as a tourist destination.
When to visit:
Lodwar, a town located in northwestern Kenya, experiences a hot and arid climate throughout the year. The best time to visit Lodwar for a holiday is during the dry season, which typically occurs from July to October. During this period, visitors can enjoy clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. It is important to note that Lodwar can get extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, so travelers should be prepared for the intense heat during their visit.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Lodwar, Kenya during the rainy season from March to May is not recommended for holidaymakers. The heavy rainfall during this time can make road travel difficult and disrupt outdoor activities. Additionally, the high humidity and hot temperatures can make sightseeing uncomfortable. It is advisable to plan your visit during the dry season from June to October for a more enjoyable holiday experience in Lodwar.
"Rainy Season (Apr–Oct)"
In Lodwar, Kenya, the wettest period occurs from March to May, during the long rains season. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 34°C, with rainfall peaking at roughly 50mm in April. Despite the rain, there's still a fair amount of sunlight, around 8 hours daily, with cloud cover varying considerably. An average day for a visitor might start sunny, turn cloudy, and end with a downpour. The humidity is high, making it feel warmer, but the rain brings a refreshing change to the typically arid region.
"Hot Season (December–March)"
Lodwar, Kenya experiences its warmest part of the year from December to March, with average high temperatures around 36-38°C (97-100°F). Rainfall is minimal during this period, averaging about 5-10mm per month, making the climate quite dry. The sunlight is intense, with an average of 9-10 hours of bright sunshine each day.
Humidity is relatively low, ranging from 20-30%, contributing to the arid conditions. Cloudiness is also minimal, with clear skies dominating most of the time, allowing for plenty of sunlight.
A typical day for a visitor during this period would involve hot, dry, and sunny weather. It would feel intensely warm, especially in the afternoon when temperatures peak. The lack of cloud cover means there is little to no shade from the strong sun. Despite the heat, the low humidity prevents the atmosphere from feeling too muggy. The evenings cool down slightly but remain warm. It's important for visitors to stay hydrated, use sun protection, and plan strenuous activities for the cooler parts of the day.
Language:
In Lodwar, a city in northwestern Kenya, the most commonly spoken languages are Turkana and Swahili. Turkana is the native language of the Turkana people, who are the predominant ethnic group in the region. Swahili, on the other hand, is the national language of Kenya and is widely spoken throughout the country. English, as the official language of Kenya, is also used, particularly in education and government.