Tsavo National Park

Tsavo National Park is a massive and iconic wildlife haven in Kenya, actually comprised of two parks: Tsavo East and Tsavo West.

Tsavo East:

• Vast and Wild: Tsavo East is the larger of the two, characterized by its expansive, semi-arid plains. It’s known for its “dust-red” elephants, which get their color from the park’s iron-rich soil.
• Yatta Plateau: This is one of the world’s longest lava flows, stretching for nearly 300km! It’s a striking feature of the Tsavo East landscape.
• Lugard Falls: Where the Galana River plunges through a narrow gorge, creating dramatic rapids.
• Wildlife Hotspot: Besides the elephants, you’ll find lions (including the famous “man-eaters of Tsavo”), leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and a wide variety of birds.

Tsavo West:

• Hills and Springs: Tsavo West is more mountainous and has a wetter climate than Tsavo East. It features stunning scenery, including volcanic hills, rocky outcrops, and lush oases.
• Mzima Springs: These crystal-clear springs are a vital water source and a beautiful sight, with a network of pools and streams.
• Lake Jipe: A tranquil lake on the border with Tanzania, known for its birdlife and aquatic animals.
• Black Rhino Sanctuary: Tsavo West is a crucial refuge for endangered black rhinos.
• Diverse Wildlife: Like Tsavo East, you’ll find a great variety of animals here, including leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, buffaloes, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, and many bird species.

General Information about Tsavo:

• Kenya’s Largest Park: Together, Tsavo East and West form the largest national park in Kenya, a truly vast wilderness.
• Historical Significance: Tsavo has a rich history, from its role in the construction of the Kenya-Uganda railway to its fame for the “man-eating lions” that terrorized workers in the late 1800s.
• Year-Round Destination: You can visit Tsavo throughout the year, but the dry seasons (June to October and January to February) generally offer the best wildlife viewing.
• Getting There: Tsavo is accessible by road from Nairobi and Mombasa, and there are also airstrips for those flying in.
• Accommodation: You’ll find a range of options, from lodges and tented camps to campsites for a more adventurous experience.

Tsavo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a classic African safari experience. Its sheer size, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife make it a truly unforgettable destination.