Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya’s largest and most iconic wildlife reserves. Spanning over 11,000 square kilometers, Tsavo East offers an unparalleled safari experience, showcasing stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique ecosystems.
The park was split into two due to the railway going from Mombasa to the interior of Kenya. It is made up of two separate parks, Tsavo East and West National Park. Located in Coast Province of Kenya.
Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya’s largest and oldest national parks, renowned for its vast landscapes and diverse wildlife. Here’s a detailed overview:
1. Geography and Scenery
- Size: Covering approximately 13,747 square kilometers (5,320 square miles), Tsavo East is one of Kenya’s largest national parks.
- Landscape: The park features a mix of savannahs, semi-arid grasslands, and scrubland. The landscape includes the famous Yatta Plateau, one of the world’s longest lava flows, and the scenic Tsavo River, which provides a vital water source for wildlife.
2. Wildlife
- Big Five: Tsavo East is home to a variety of large mammals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. The park is particularly famous for its large herds of elephants.
- Other Species: You can also find giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and hippos, as well as predators like cheetahs and hyenas. Birdwatchers can spot over 500 bird species, including the unique Somali ostrich.
3. Activities
- Game Drives: The primary activity, offering opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife. Tsavo East’s vast open spaces make it an ideal location for spotting large herds and diverse species.
- Guided Walks: Some lodges offer guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot and learn about the flora and smaller wildlife.
- Bird Watching: The park’s varied habitats make it a great destination for birdwatching.
4. Accommodation
- Luxury Lodges and Camps: Options like the Ashnil Aruba Lodge and Galdessa Camp offer comfortable accommodations with amenities and views of the park.
- Mid-Range and Budget Options: There are also mid-range lodges and campsites, providing more affordable accommodations.
- Camping: For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are designated camping sites within the park.
5. Climate
- Weather: Tsavo East has a semi-arid climate with hot temperatures throughout the year. The rainy seasons are from April to May and from November to December, which can make some areas less accessible but also brings out lush vegetation and increased wildlife activity.
6. Access and Logistics
- Getting There: The park is accessible by road from Nairobi (approximately 330 kilometers, taking about 5-6 hours) or from Mombasa (about 200 kilometers, taking around 3-4 hours). There are also airstrips within the park for charter flights.
- Permits: Entry to Tsavo East National Park requires a park entry fee, which can be paid at the park gates or arranged through tour operators.
7. Conservation Efforts
- Protection Initiatives: The park is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), which focuses on conservation efforts to protect its diverse ecosystems and wildlife. This includes anti-poaching measures and habitat management.
8. Best Time to Visit
- Dry Seasons: The best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to March. During these periods, wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, making it easier to spot animals.
Tsavo East National Park offers a unique safari experience with its expansive landscapes, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for both traditional game viewing and adventure activities. Whether you’re looking for a classic safari or a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Tsavo East provides a memorable adventure in Kenya’s wild heart.
Overview
Tsavo East National park is the largest protected area in Kenya and 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.
The park has blue waters of palm-shaded Galana River. This along with the 300 kilomtere long Yatta Plateau, the longest lava flow in the world, make for an adventure unlike any other in the Tsavo East