"DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF TSAVO NATIONAL PARK: ONE OF THE LARGEST PROTECTED AREAS IN THE WORLD"
It is called the theatre of the wild because of The sight of dust-red elephants wallowing, rolling, and spraying each other. It is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Kenya, and together with Tsavo West, it covers just over 20,000 square kilometers or 4% of Kenya.
Tsavo East National Park is Kenya's oldest and largest national park. It is characterized by a rugged volcanic landscape, along with the 290km (180 miles) long Yatta Plateau, the most extended lava flow in the world (also the oldest fossilized lava flow on Earth), making for an adventure unlike any other in the Tsavo East.
Named after the river that flows through the parks, Tsavo is split into two national parks, Tsavo East and Tsavo West, which are divided by the Mombasa-Nairobi highway.
The park has more biodiversity than any other globally, marking the meeting point between northern and southern wildlife.
The park forms the largest protected area in Kenya, Spanning 13,747 square kilometers of pristine wilderness. It is home to most of the larger mammals, vast herds of dust –red elephant, Rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, pods of hippo, crocodile, waterbucks, lesser Kudu, gerenuk, and the prolific bird life features 500 recorded species.
It is nine times bigger than the Maasai Mara and is well known for its mane-less lions, big herds of red dust-covered elephants, and cheetahs.
It is ideal for those who wish to combine their Safari with a beach Holiday because of its location, which is halfway between Nairobi and Mombasa.
The sparse vegetation here, whereas the topography is flatter and drier, makes wildlife spotting generally easier than its more dramatic counterpart, Tsavo West National Park.
The Tsavo, Galana, and Athi rivers form part of the vital Tsavo ecosystem due to their dense vegetation along their way and major great spots to watch wildlife.
HOW DOES TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK FEATURE IN YOUR TOUR PLAN.
Tsavo East National Park is ideally situated halfway between Nairobi and the Kenyan coastal resorts. Tsavo is a perfect match for a beach holiday because it is halfway between Nairobi and the Kenyan Coast.
Diani Beach, located just 30km south of Mombasa and approximately a four-hour drive from Tsavo East, is a stunning tropical paradise and has been awarded the best beach destination in Africa for five years.
Tsavo is also often visited by Amboseli National Park and Tsavo East & West National Park, which contrasts with the semi-arid landscapes of Tsavo and is instead made up of swamps, woodland, and open plains.
Amboseli National Park lies in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the south of Kenya and is adjacent to Tsavo. It is roughly a six-hour drive from Tsavo, with game-viewing opportunities on the way, and four hours from Nairobi if you plan on starting with Amboseli.
The main access routes are Chyulu Gate from Amboseli and Mtito Andei Gate from Nairobi. Visitors from Mombasa will make use of Tsavo Gate near Manyani.
TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK.
Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya's oldest and largest wildlife parks, covering an area of approximately 13,747 square kilometers in the country's southeastern part. It is divided into two sections by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, namely the eastern and western parts.
The park boasts diverse wildlife, including the "Big Five" game animals such as lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, rhinoceros, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy various activities like game drives, bird watching, guided walks, and camping.
As you enter Tsavo East National Park, you will be blown away by the vast expanse of wilderness, stretching as far as the eye can see. Rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and vast plains, home to diverse wildlife, characterize the rugged terrain. You can witness majestic elephants roaming freely, graceful giraffes towering above the trees, and stealthy predators like lions and leopards as they hunt for their prey.
The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 500 species of birds that call it home. As you explore the park, you can choose from various activities, including game drives, guided walks, and camping under the stars.
HOTELS AND LODGES IN TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK.
Tsavo East National Park offers a variety of hotels and lodges for visitors to choose from.
Tsavo East National Park, situated in southeastern Kenya, boasts several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences.
These include luxury lodges, tented camps, and budget-friendly hotels. Some famous lodges in the park are Ashnil Aruba Lodge, Satao Camp, and Galdessa Camp, providing a unique wilderness experience with comfortable amenities.
For those who prefer a more adventurous experience, tented camps such as Satao Elerai Tented Camp and Voi Safari Lodge offer a closer interaction with nature. These camps provide comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms and private decks overlooking the park's vast savannah and wildlife.
Budget-conscious travelers have several options, including the Voi Wildlife Lodge and Ndololo Safari Camp. These lodges offer basic amenities at affordable prices, making it possible for everyone to experience the magic of Tsavo East National Park.
No matter which accommodation option, Tsavo East National Park promises an unforgettable experience of Kenya's diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture.
ACTIVITIES AND PLACES TO VISIT IN TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK.
If you're planning a trip to Tsavo East National Park, you might wonder about the best activities and places to visit. Let me help you by suggesting some top attractions and experiences to make the most of your visit.
Tsavo East National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and wildlife. If you plan a trip to this stunning park, you won't be disappointed with what it offers. Here are some of the best activities and places to visit during your stay:
1. Game Drives: Tsavo East is famous for its abundant wildlife, making it an excellent destination for game drives. You can expect to see herds of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and many other wild animals.
2. Mudanda Rock: This unique rock formation offers a breathtaking park view. You can climb to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of Tsavo East's vast landscape.
3. Aruba Dam: This artificial dam is a famous watering hole for wildlife. You can spot a variety of animals, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
4. Lugard Falls: A beautiful waterfall against a lush greenery backdrop. This is an excellent spot for picnics, bird watching, and relaxation.
5. Voi Wildlife Lodge: This is a top-rated lodge in the park's heart. It offers stunning views of the park and is an excellent base for exploring Tsavo East's attractions.
With these top attractions and experiences, you will have an unforgettable trip to Tsavo East National Park.
TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK.
Tsavo West National Park is a protected area in southern Kenya, east of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Tsavo West National Park is one of Kenya's largest and most famous national parks, covering an area of over 9,000 square kilometers.
It is situated in the southern part of the country, bordering the Tsavo East National Park. It is home to diverse wildlife, including the famous "big five" - elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos.
In addition to the "big five," Tsavo West National Park is also home to other animals, such as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and wild dogs. The park is also known for its large population of baboons and vervet monkeys.
The park is also known for its scenic landscapes, which include rugged hills, lush greenery, and natural springs. Tsavo West National Park visitors can enjoy various activities like game drives, bird watching, camping, and hiking.
ACTIVITIES TO DO AT TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK.
Tsavo West National Park offers a variety of exciting activities.
Tsavo West National Park is a breathtaking destination with diverse activities for visitors.
A game drive is one of the most exciting activities in Tsavo West National Park. Visitors can embark on a thrilling adventure through the park's vast savannah plains, where they can spot lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, and rhinoceroses. The park's knowledgeable guides will give visitors fascinating insights into the animals' behavior and habitat.
For birdwatchers, Tsavo West National Park is a paradise. The park is home to over 600 bird species, including the African fish eagle, the martial eagle, and the secretary bird. Visitors can take a guided birdwatching tour and marvel at the colorful plumage and melodious songs of the park's feathered residents.
The park also offers several hiking trails that provide visitors with stunning views of the park's landscapes and wildlife. The Chaimu Crater Walk is a popular trail that takes visitors to the top of a volcanic crater, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the park. The Roaring Rocks trail is another popular option that takes visitors to a viewpoint overlooking the park's vast plains.
In addition to these activities, visitors can visit the park's attractions, such as the Mzima Springs and the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary. The Mzima Springs is a series of crystal-clear pools home to hippos and crocodiles. Visitors can take a guided tour and watch these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary is a protected area where visitors can see black rhinos up close and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals.
In conclusion, Tsavo West National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kenya. With its diverse range of activities, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife, it is a place that will leave visitors with unforgettable memories.
HOTELS AND LODGES IN TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK.
Tsavo West National Park is home to various hotels and lodges where visitors can stay and enjoy the wildlife.
For those seeking an unforgettable safari experience, Tsavo West National Park offers luxurious lodges and hotels where visitors can relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.
These accommodations offer everything from spacious tents with private verandas to plush suites with panoramic views of the park.
Here is a list of hotels and lodges in Tsavo West National Park.
For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge is the perfect choice. This lodge offers stunning views of the Chyulu Hills and Mount Kilimanjaro and has an on-site swimming pool, spa, and gourmet restaurant.
Severin Safari Camp, on the other hand, offers a more rustic and authentic safari experience. The camp is situated by a waterhole, allowing visitors to view wildlife from the comfort of their tents.
For visitors seeking a budget-friendly option, Voyager Ziwani is an excellent choice. This tented camp is located on the banks of the Sante River and offers a range of activities, including guided nature walks and night game drives.
Rhino Valley Lodge is another excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. This lodge is in a secluded area of the park and offers comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
Finally, Ngulia Safari Lodge is situated on the edge of a rhino sanctuary and offers visitors the opportunity to view these magnificent creatures up close. The lodge also boasts a viewing deck, where visitors can watch as animals come to drink at the nearby waterhole.
No matter which accommodation option visitors choose, they will have an unforgettable experience in Tsavo West National Park.
OTHER THINGS TO DO.
Bush Breakfasts, Picnics And Sundowners
At Tsavo East, there are many optional meal setups besides the lodging dining hall.
For a memorable visit, options such as a breakfast set up overlooking the Yatta Plateau or a picnic under the shade of a tamarind tree are just ways of heightening the fun.
Hot and freshly prepared food and drinks are preserved in the back of the safari vehicle, ready for mealtime.
As the day ends, watch the coral sun sink behind the hills from a scenic rocky escarpment, ice-cold drink in hand. In Africa, we call this sundowner.
Bird Watching.
Tsavo East National Park has a record number of over 500 bird species. Most of them are dry-country specials that are easy to spot, including the majestic Golden-breasted starling, golden pipit, and vulturine guinea fowl.
The park is also the southernmost stronghold for the Somali ostrich and is a significant wintering ground for migrant species from Europe. Migrant birds are present from November to April.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT.
Knowing the best time to go is essential if you're planning a visit to Tsavo East National Park.
Knowing the best time to go is essential to make the most of your visit. If you visit between October and January, you'll see a spectacular display of migratory birds, including the African pygmy-falcon, red-and-yellow barbet, and yellow-bellied sunbird. If you want to witness the park's famous red elephants, plan your visit between June and October, when the dry season causes the elephants to gather around watering holes.
The rainy season (March to May) is the best time to visit for those interested in the park's lush greenery. During this time, the park's vegetation is most vibrant, and waterfalls and streams come to life. However, it's important to note that some roads in the park may be inaccessible during the rainy season, so plan accordingly.
No matter when you choose to visit, Tsavo East National Park is a true gem of East Africa and an experience you'll never forget.
GETTING TO TSAVO WEST AND EAST NATIONAL PARKS
Tsavo East is located in southeast Kenya, 325km or 201 miles from Nairobi and 250km or 155 miles from Mombasa. The drive from Nairobi takes roughly five hours, and the primary access routes are Chyulu Gate from Amboseli and Mtito Andei Gate from Nairobi. Visitors coming from Mombasa can use the Tsavo Gate near Manyani.
While there are no scheduled flights to Tsavo East, several airstrips are available for chartered flights.
If you are traveling from Lake Nakuru National Park, it is about 450km or 280 miles away, and the driving time is approximately 5-7 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
When traveling from Nairobi, many people stop here for a picnic lunch or a short game drive.
Getting to Tsavo West and East National Parks can be done through various means.
If you plan a trip to Tsavo West and East National Parks, there are different ways to get there, depending on your preferences. If you prefer air travel, you can fly from Nairobi to Tsavo East Airstrip or Tsavo West Airstrip.
The flights are not only quicker but also provide you with an opportunity to see the beautiful scenery from above.
On the other hand, if you are a fan of road trips, you can drive from Nairobi to the parks for approximately 5 hours. This option allows you to enjoy the stunning views and take breaks. Additionally, if you are coming from Mombasa, the distance to the parks is shorter, and you can drive for about 2-3 hours or take a flight to the airstrips.
It is important to note that the roads leading to the parks can be rough and bumpy, so using a 4-wheel drive vehicle is advisable. Therefore, if you plan to drive, ensure you have a well-maintained car with good suspension.
No matter which option you choose, you will have a fantastic experience as you head to Tsavo West and East National Parks.
If you plan a trip to Tsavo East and West National Parks, consider traveling by train. Consider traveling by train to Tsavo East and West National Parks for a unique and memorable experience.
The train journey from Nairobi to Mombasa passes through the parks, providing opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy scenic views.
The scheduled train timings from Nairobi and Mombasa are as follows: The train schedule for departures from Nairobi and Mombasa are as follows:
The train departing from Nairobi leaves at 8:00 am. It arrives at either of the two drop-off stations, Mtito Adei (For Tsavo West Destination) and Voi (For Tsavo East National Park Destination), at 10:50/1 am and 12:02/08, respectively.
Similarly, the train leaving from Mombasa departs at 8:am and arrives in Voi (For Tsavo East National Park Destination) and Mtito Adei (For Tsavo West Destination) at 9:49/55 am and 11:18/21 am, respectively. These timings are predetermined and subject to change only in exceptional circumstances.
From the train stations, you will be picked up by Safari converted vehicle by our designated tour guide/ driver.
HOW MANY GAME DRIVES AND DAYS MUST YOU VISIT TSAVO EAST AND WEST NATIONAL PARKS?
If you're planning a visit to Tsavo East and West National Parks, it's essential to determine how many game drives and days you'll need to experience everything these parks offer fully. The specifics of your trip, such as the activities you're interested in and your safari preferences, will largely determine this. Here are some suggestions to help you maximize your experience:
If you're considering a trip to Tsavo East and West National Parks, planning and determining the number of game drives and days you'll need to make the most of your visit is essential. The specifics of your trip will depend on your interests and preferences, the time of year you plan to go, and the available activities.
For example, suppose you're interested in seeing a wide variety of wildlife and experiencing the parks' diverse landscapes. In that case, you may want to plan for multiple game drives and spend several days exploring each park. On the other hand, if you have limited time or are primarily interested in a specific activity, such as birdwatching or hiking, you could arrange for a shorter visit and focus on those particular experiences.
To get the most out of your trip, it's also essential to consider factors such as the best times of day for game drives, the availability of lodging and meals, and any additional fees or permits that may be required.
By planning ahead and tailoring your visit to your specific interests and needs, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience at Tsavo East and West National Parks.
