Tsavo National Park is one of Kenya’s most well-known and extensive national parks, located in the country’s southeastern part. It is actually separated into two parks: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. They make one of the world’s largest wildlife reserves, encompassing an area of around 22,000 square kilometres.
Tsavo West
Tsavo West National Park has lots of trees and hills, which show its old volcanoes through dark rock shapes. Most of the buildings and places to stay are in the northern part of the park.
The land looks amazing with rocky areas, green grasslands, and thick plants. Don’t miss going to Mzima Springs, a natural pool with underwater places to watch. You can see hippos playing really close. Seeing animals might be a bit hard, but the park has the Big 5 and many types of antelope. Look for special animals like the fringe-eared oryx, klipspringer, and the beautiful Maasai giraffe. The bird-watching here is better than in the east part of the park, which is great for people who love birds. Secure your spot to experience the magic of Tsavo National Park up close.Book our 6 Days/ 5 Nights of Amboseli, Tsavo West & East
Tsavo East
Tsavo East is Kenya’s largest national park, comprising about 13,700 square kilometers, or nine times the size of the Masai Mara. It has beautiful views like Mudanda Rock and Yatta Plateau, the world’s biggest area covered by lava flow. The park is famous for its special red elephants that put red soil on themselves, which is found in Tsavo.
There are special animals to watch for, like the desert warthog that only lives here, the hirola (also called Hunter’s hartebeest), and the graceful Peter’s Gazelle.
Besides the big group of elephants, Tsavo East itself is really big and wild. It’s even more natural compared to Tsavo West. It’s not usual to drive around the park for a whole day without seeing another car. Adding Tsavo National Park to your Kenyan safari makes your experience really interesting.Experience our 9 Days of Amboseli, Tsavo West & Diani Beach.
Things to see and do in Tsavo National Park
- Wildlife Safari
Tsavo National Park is well-known for its diverse biodiversity, which serves as a home for Africa’s iconic wildlife. Experience the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos – in their native habitat on an exciting wildlife safari.
- Lava Flows and Shetani Lava Flow
Tsavo’s dramatic landscapes include vast expanses of black lava flows that date back thousands of years. The Shetani Lava Flow, named after the Swahili word for “devil,” is a mesmerizing sight. Guided tours reveal the history of these ancient eruptions and the unique vegetation that has adapted to thrive in this rugged environment.
Located in Tsavo West, Mzima Springs is an oasis of crystal-clear freshwater amidst the arid surroundings. Take a walk along the observation platforms to see hippos, crocodiles, and various fish species underwater through the clear waters of the springs. It’s a tranquil spot for both relaxation and wildlife observation. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Mzima Springs and witness playful hippos like never before – it’s a sight to behold. Book a 4 Days/ 3 Nights of Amboseli, Tsavo west & East.
Tsavo’s diverse landscapes extend to the Chyulu Hills, a range of volcanic hills that offer breathtaking panoramic views. The hills are adorned with lush forests, pristine grasslands, and a variety of wildlife. Hiking, horseback riding, and camping in the Chyulu Hills provide an intimate connection with nature and a chance to explore lesser-visited areas of the park.
For bird enthusiasts, Tsavo is a paradise. With over 500 bird species, the park offers a remarkable birdwatching experience. From the vibrant Lilac-breasted Roller to the African Fish Eagle, Tsavo’s avian inhabitants grace the skies with their beauty and song, creating a symphony of nature.
Tsavo West is home to the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, a dedicated area for the conservation of both black and white rhinos. Visitors can embark on guided rhino tracking excursions to learn about these endangered creatures and witness the efforts being made to protect them.
The Lugard Falls, named after Captain Lugard, is a series of rapids and cascades along the Galana River. These impressive falls are surrounded by scenic landscapes and make for a great picnic spot. Keep an eye out for the resident crocodiles basking in the sun along the riverbanks.
How to get to Tsavo National Park
The two biggest international airports in Kenya are Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, about 15 kilometers southeast of Nairobi, and Moi International Airport, about 9 kilometers west of Mombasa.
Read: Complete Guide to Amboseli National Park
Tsavo East National Park is located in southeastern Kenya, roughly 325 kilometers from Nairobi and 250 kilometers from Mombasa. Depending of your travel plans, you can reach the reserve from Nairobi (about 4 to 5 hours), Mombasa (about 2 to 4 hours), or another park. The distance from Lake Nakuru National Park is approximately 450km/280mi, with a trip time of approximately 712 hours.
While there are no scheduled flights to Tsavo East, a few airstrips are available for private charter flights. If you’re on a tour, the tour operator will normally arrange charter flights between parks. .
Conclusion
Tsavo National Park promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Kenya’s wild beauty. From the striking landscapes and diverse wildlife to the captivating history etched in volcanic rock formations, Tsavo offers an experience like no other.
Pack your bags and embark on a safari that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Start planning your Tsavo adventure today and let the wild wonders of Kenya’s treasure trove unfold before your eyes. Book your journey to Tsavo National Park now and let nature’s grandeur envelop you in its embrace. Contact us today!
