Tsavo East and West National Parks Safaris
Overview
Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks Safaris, These are among Kenya’s largest and most famous wildlife destinations. Together, they cover over 22,000 square kilometers, making up one of the biggest national parks in the world. Located in southeastern Kenya, Tsavo offers a raw and untamed safari experience, ideal for both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors. Tsavo is known for its striking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and fascinating history.
In this blog post, we explore why Tsavo East and West are must-visit safari destinations, their unique features, and what to expect on your safari adventure.
Tsavo East National Park: Vast and Untamed
Wildlife in Tsavo East
Tsavo East is one of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks, covering over 13,000 square kilometers. This park is renowned for its open savannahs, which offer excellent game-viewing opportunities. The park is home to “red elephants”—named for their reddish hue from dust baths in the park’s iron-rich soil. Visitors can also spot the Big Five, including lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. Giraffes, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles can also be seen in Tsavo East, especially around the Galana River.
The park’s flat terrain makes it easy to see wildlife from a distance, which is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture animals in their natural habitat.
Key Attractions in Tsavo East
One of the highlights of Tsavo East is the Yatta Plateau, the world’s longest lava flow, stretching over 300 kilometers. This geological wonder forms a breathtaking backdrop to your safari and attracts a variety of wildlife. Another must-visit site is Lugard Falls, a series of whitewater rapids on the Galana River, where you can see hippos basking and crocodiles sunning on the riverbanks.
For those interested in bird watching, Tsavo East is home to over 500 bird species, including migratory birds and native species like the African fish eagle and martial eagle.
Tsavo West National Park: Scenic and Diverse
Wildlife in Tsavo West
Covering 9,065 square kilometers, Tsavo West is more mountainous and lush compared to its eastern counterpart. Its diverse landscape includes rolling hills, volcanic rock formations, and dense bushlands. The park is known for offering a more scenic safari experience, with a mix of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Tsavo West is home to many of the same species as Tsavo East, including elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes. However, it is especially known for its black rhinos, which can be spotted at the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary. The sanctuary offers protection for this endangered species and is a highlight for visitors hoping to see rhinos up close.
Key Attractions in Tsavo West
Tsavo West is famous for its dramatic landscapes. Mzima Springs is one of the most popular attractions, where crystal-clear water gushes from underground streams filtered through volcanic rock. The springs are home to hippos and crocodiles, and visitors can view these animals from an underwater observation chamber.
Another key attraction is Shetani Lava Flow, a vast black lava field formed by volcanic eruptions centuries ago. The jagged rocks and surreal landscape make it a unique spot for photography and exploration.
Tsavo West also offers excellent birding opportunities, with more than 600 bird species. The park’s diverse habitats attract birds like the Maasai ostrich, hornbills, and kingfishers.
Tsavo Safaris: What to Expect
Game Drives
Game drives in Tsavo are the most common way to explore the parks. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for game viewing, as animals are more active during these cooler hours. Tsavo East’s flat terrain provides unobstructed views of wildlife, while Tsavo West’s rugged terrain offers more varied scenery. Whether you’re exploring in a 4×4 vehicle or on a guided tour, you’ll have the chance to see Kenya’s iconic wildlife in its natural habitat.
Walking Safaris
For a more immersive experience, consider a walking safari in Tsavo West. Accompanied by armed guides, these walks allow you to explore the park’s unique landscape on foot. You’ll learn about the smaller wildlife species, plants, and birdlife while appreciating the tranquility of the bush.
Bird Watching
Bird watching is a major attraction in both parks. With over 500 species in Tsavo East and 600 species in Tsavo West, it’s a paradise for bird lovers. The parks attract both migratory and native species. Be on the lookout for vultures, hornbills, and eagles, along with brightly colored starlings and sunbirds.
Best Time to Visit Tsavo
The best time to visit Tsavo East and West is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February. During these months, wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The dry conditions also mean that roads are more accessible.
During the wet season (March to May and November to December), the landscape becomes lush and green, which makes for beautiful scenery but can make wildlife harder to spot due to the thick vegetation.
How to Get to Tsavo National Parks
Tsavo East and West are located between Nairobi and Mombasa, making them easily accessible from both cities. You can reach the parks by road or air:
- By Road: Tsavo East and West are accessible via the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. It’s about a 5 to 6-hour drive from Nairobi or 3 hours from Mombasa.
- By Air: Several airstrips in both parks allow for chartered flights from Nairobi or Mombasa, making travel faster and more convenient.
Accommodation Options in Tsavo East and West
Tsavo offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Some of the top lodges include Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge in Tsavo West and Satao Camp in Tsavo East. These lodges offer game drives, nature walks, and excellent views of the surrounding wildlife.
If you prefer a more intimate experience, bush camps are available, offering tents with en-suite bathrooms and open-air dining. For budget travelers, several campsites in both parks offer a chance to sleep under the stars and experience the bush more closely.
Conclusion
Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks Safaris offer an incredible safari experience with their wide range of wildlife, diverse landscapes, and unique attractions. Whether you want to see the “red elephants” of Tsavo East or explore the scenic volcanic hills of Tsavo West, these parks provide the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. A safari to Tsavo promises unforgettable memories, stunning views, and a true connection to nature.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the wild, Tsavo should be on your safari bucket list.
