Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya’s largest parks, spans an impressive area of over 13,747 square kilometers and was established in 1948. Nestled between the coastal region and the Great Rift Valley, this park offers a diverse array of landscapes, from vast, arid plains to rocky hills and meandering rivers. Tsavo East is renowned for its abundant wildlife, with a particularly notable concentration of ‘Red Elephants’, along with a wide variety of other iconic species such as Lions, Leopards, Giraffes, Zebras, and Buffaloes. Birdwatchers will also be thrilled with over 500 bird species present in the park, making Tsavo East a paradise for safari enthusiasts.
Historical Heritage and Legends
One of the most fascinating aspects of Tsavo East is its rich historical heritage, especially the legend of the Tsavo Man-Eaters. These two notorious lions terrorized railway workers building the Uganda Railway at the beginning of the 20th century, even inspiring the film “The Ghost and the Darkness”. Today, visitors can explore remnants from this era, including the Tsavo railway bridge, while experiencing the park’s natural beauty.
Activities and Experiences
Popular activities in Tsavo East include vehicle safaris, guided walks, and excursions to wildlife observation points for a complete immersion in the wild. The park also offers unforgettable camping experiences for adventure lovers. With several campsites scattered throughout, visitors can spend the night under the stars listening to the captivating sounds of the African savannah. Additionally, luxury lodges provide comfortable accommodation with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, allowing visitors to relax in comfort after a day of exploration.
Wildlife Observation
Tsavo East is Kenya’s largest national park and one of the largest in the world, covering more than 20,000 square kilometers. Here, you have the best chance of seeing large herds. A short climb to Mudanda Rock, a smaller version of Australia’s Ayers Rock, provides an unparalleled view of the watering hole to the east where buffalos and elephants often gather in significant numbers. Notice the dark laterite color covering the elephants’ skin, which protects them from both insect bites and the sun.
Animal Diversity
The abundant wildlife is one of Tsavo East’s main attractions. You can spot Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Giraffes, Zebras, Gazelles, and Antelopes, among many other species. The red elephants of Africa, recognizable by their color due to Tsavo’s red soil, are a major draw. Lions are often seen lounging in the sun or hunting, while leopards, though harder to spot, also inhabit Tsavo East. African buffaloes are commonly encountered, particularly near water sources. Giraffes, feeding on acacia leaves, and zebras add stripes to the landscape. Several species of gazelles like Thomson’s and Grant’s, along with kob, can be seen grazing on the plains. The majestic oryx is also present in the park.
Bird Watching
Tsavo East is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The African ostrich, red-billed hornbill, white-bellied go-away-bird, Kori bustard, sacred ibis, white-fronted bee-eater, blue-bellied roller, yellow-legged gull, southern fiscal, and black-headed weaver are just some of the many bird species observable in the park.
Points of Interest
Key attractions include Aruba Dam, an ideal spot to observe animals drinking, especially during the dry months. Mudanda Rock is a spectacular rock formation offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Galana River, which runs through the park, attracts a wide variety of animals, including crocodiles and hippos. Vehicle safaris are a popular activity, allowing visitors to explore the park and discover its diverse flora and fauna. Ranger-led guided safaris provide an enriching and safe experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tsavo East National Park depends on personal preferences and travel objectives. The dry season from June to September is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to observe. The rainy season from April to May offers lush, green landscapes and increased bird migration activity. The intermediate periods, from October to December and in March, offer a balance between dry and wet conditions, with fewer tourists and pleasant temperatures.
How to Get to Tsavo East
There are several ways to reach Tsavo East. By air, you can fly to one of the local airstrips. By car, you can drive from Nairobi or other main cities in Kenya, taking the main highway that connects Nairobi to Mombasa and crosses through the park. By bus, regular services connect Nairobi to Voi, the closest town to the park. By train, you can take a train from Mombasa to Voi or from Nairobi to Voi and then organize a safari from there.