Namoratunga Stone Circles – Kenya’s Mysterious Ancient Astronomical Site

On the rugged plains of Turkana County, surrounded by volcanic boulders, acacia shrubs, and the shimmering heat of northern Kenya, stands one of East Africa’s most intriguing archaeological sites: Namoratunga, also known as the Kalokol Pillar Site.

These ancient stone pillars, estimated to be more than 2,000 years old, continue to puzzle historians, astronomers, and travelers. Their mysterious alignment, cultural significance, and location near Lake Turkana make Namoratunga one of Kenya’s most fascinating prehistoric landmarks.

Stone circle on a desert landscape with scattered vegetation, overlooking a blue lake and distant mountains under a clear sky. Calm and serene mood.

What Are the Namoratunga Stone Circles?

Namoratunga is a collection of 19 basalt stone pillars arranged in a pattern that suggests deliberate astronomical alignment.The stones stand upright, each carefully positioned as part of a circular or semi-circular layout.

The word “Namoratunga” means “People of Stone” in the local Turkana language — a name inspired by legends that the pillars once represented people turned to stone by supernatural forces.

Location of the Site

Namoratunga is located:

• Near Kalokol, on the western shores of Lake Turkana

• About 30 km north of Lodwar

• In Turkana County, northern Kenya

The road to the site cuts through volcanic rock fields, desert landscapes, and traditional Turkana villages.

A Site of Ancient Astronomy

Researchers believe that Namoratunga may have been used as an ancient calendar.

Astronomical Theory

In 1970, archaeologist Mark Lynch proposed that the stones align with the positions of seven stars crucial to the traditional calendar of the Cushitic-speaking tribes (such as the Borana).

These stars include:

• Aldebaran

• Bellatrix

• Saiph

• Aldhara

• Pleiades

• Beta Triangulum

• Suryaa

The alignment may have helped people mark seasons for:

• Grazing

• Migration

• Farming

• Ceremonial events

Although debated, this theory adds to the site’s mystery and cultural richness.

Tall stone pillars stand in a desert landscape with scattered rocks and sparse trees. The sky is clear and blue, creating a serene atmosphere.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Namoratunga is believed to have been related not only to astronomy but also to:

• Burial rituals

• Cultural ceremonies

• Ancestral worship

The discovery of a nearby ancient cemetery, with stone cairns and burial mounds, suggests the pillars may have marked sacred ground.

What the Stones Look Like

Visitors will find:

19 cylindrical basalt pillars

Roughly carved, standing upright, some leaning from centuries of erosion.

Basalt boulders

Scattered naturally across the landscape, blending with the man-made pillars.

Low stone circles

Marking burial chambers or ceremonial spaces.

Open desert horizon

Giving the site a dramatic and almost haunting atmosphere.

The stark, windswept landscape adds to the mystical feeling of the place.

Archaeological Findings

Archaeologists have uncovered:

• Pottery shards

• Tools made of obsidian and stone

• Burial remnants

• Evidence of Cushitic pastoralist communities dating to 300–200 BCE

Radiocarbon dating places the site in the Pre-Iron Age period of East Africa.

Getting to Namoratunga

Most travelers reach the site from:

• Lodwar

• Kalokol

• Eliye Springs

A 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to rough terrain, volcanic rocks, and seasonal conditions.

What to Expect When You Visit

Namoratunga is remote — there are no fences, gates, or commercial structures.Visitors experience:

• Quietness and isolation

• A vast desert-like landscape

• Strong Turkana cultural presence

• Freedom to walk among the stones

• Wide sky views ideal for sunset photography

Because of its location near Lake Turkana, many visitors combine the trip with:

• Eliye Springs

• Central Island National Park

• Turkana villages

• Lodwar town attractions

Best Time to Visit

• Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures

• Dry season (June–September, December–February) is easiest

• Avoid midday heat — Turkana temperatures often exceed 35–40°C

Why Namoratunga Matters

Namoratunga Stone Circles are important for several reasons:

Historical heritage

They reveal life, rituals, and beliefs of ancient Cushitic communities.

Astronomical relevance

Possibly one of Africa’s earliest star-aligned calendar systems.

Cultural identity

The Turkana community associates these stones with deep myths and ancestral stories.

Tourism and education

A must-see site for archaeology lovers, cultural travelers, and photographers exploring northern Kenya.