Hi, has anyone recently crossed the Kenya\Ethiopia border above Lake Turkana. if so, what is it like. is it possible to cross the Omo river?

Thanks

Yep, a few have done it this year (eight or nine that I know of) a group of five of us a couple of months back. We did however come down the east side of the lake so didn't cross the river. Opinions differ on the likelihood of being able to accomplish the west side, the biggest issue is that there isn't really a ferry across the river but just some small boats that can run you across if you pay them enough. I met a Spanish guy in southern Ethiopia who had ridden his pedal bike up that way and he was able to find a boat, or better described as a dug out canoe. The brave could maybe accomplish this, but it would be a bit of an experiment to see if the boat would sink or not. Price might be an issue as well, the biker indicated that at first they were trying to charge him quite a bit, can't remember the amount but something like $100. He argued it was just a pedal bike and then eventually got a ride for significantly less. Not much bargaining power as it's a loooong ride to go back. It's a bit of gamble to ride out to the river to try it as you will be carrying a lot of fuel already (there is generally no fuel available in Omerate (sometimes black market)) so you will be burning precious petrol to go out and if it doesn't work out you will have to ride a long way back to pick up more fuel again. Perhaps available in Turmi, but for reliable supplies Jinka.

Let me know if you want to know any more details

Thanks Mountainman

We are heading up the east of lake turkana tomorrow. Thanks for the info.

its a long way from the ocean for a waverider. as we say leave the mountains to the mountainmen.

Lol, you will have a great time. That portion of the ride was definitely a highlight. I'm sure you have the fuel situation all under control, but in case there are villages you want to know more about fuel availability, feel free to fire me an e-mail.

I'm envious, man are you going to see a lot of great scenery and a lot of rocks!