Tsavo East National Park

Overview

BEST TIME TO GO

June to October and January to February

HIGH SEASON

December to March and July to October

SIZE

13,747km² / 5,308mi²

Tsavo East and Tsavo West together form one of the world’s largest national parks, covering 4% of Kenya. Tsavo East National Park feels wild and undiscovered; its vast open spaces are mesmerizing. The huge, semi-arid wilderness is home to most safari animals, including Tsavo’s maneless lions, and although wildlife densities aren’t large, spotting animals is always possible here due to the lack of foliage.
Getting There
You can reach Tsavo East National Park by road from major Kenyan cities, such as Nairobi and Mombasa. The park has several entry gates. The Voi Gate and Buchuma Gate are popular entry points. It’s advisable to use a 4×4 vehicle for the rough terrain.

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tsavo East National Park is during the dry season, from June to September and January to February. Wildlife is more concentrated around water sources during this time, making it easier to spot.

Safari Activities

Game Drives: Explore the park on game drives to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
Bird Watching: Tsavo East is a paradise for bird enthusiasts with over 500 bird species.
Walking Safaris: Some lodges offer guided walking safaris for a more intimate wildlife experience.
Cultural Tours: Learn about the local cultures and traditions of the people living around the park

Wildlife
Tsavo East is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. It’s famous for its “red elephants” due to the park’s red soil.

Accommodations
There are various lodges and camps within and around the park, offering different levels of comfort. Some popular options include Ashnil Aruba Lodge, Voi Wildlife Lodge, and Galdessa Camp.

Attractions

Mudanda Rock: A scenic rock formation providing a natural water catchment where animals come to drink.
Lugard Falls: A series of rapids on the Galana River, offering picturesque views.
Aruba Dam: A waterhole attracting a variety of wildlife.
Yatta Plateau: The world’s longest lava flow, providing incredible views of the park.
Safari Packages and Cost
Safari packages vary depending on the duration, accommodations, and activities included. Costs can range from $150 to $500 or more per day, per person. It’s best to book a safari through a reputable tour operator, and the price usually covers transportation, meals, and park fees.