Tsavo East National Park Safari Guide

Tsavo East National Park 

Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks located in Taita Taveta County. It serves as a tourist attraction site known for its herd of dust-red elephants, The big 5 and Yatta Plateau (The World’s longest Lava). Tsavo East National Park is also home to over 500 bird species thus making it the ideal destination for bird watching & photography.

Tsavo east national park

Tsavo East National Park Information and Facts 

  • Tsavo East National Park is located in Tait-Taveta County, Kenya
  • The park was established in 1948
  • Tsavo East National Park spans an area of 13,747 square kilometers (5,308 square miles)
  • It is in the semi-arid area previously known as Taru Desert
  • Together with the Tsavo West National Park, they form an area of about 22,000 square kilometers
  • Tsavo East experiences a semi-arid climate with two rainy seasons:
  • The long rains (March to May)
  • The short rains (October to December)
  • Temperatures can range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), with hotter periods in January and February.

Tsavo East National Park Safaris and Tours

Tsavo East National Park Attractions 

Tsavo East National Park has unique scenic geographical features that make the park worth visiting. With expert travel guides – Nature’s Wonderland Safaris, the Tsavo East National Park safari is a worthwhile experience. Below are the geographical features that makes the park standout;

Wildlife

The Park is home to diverse wildlife. Among the wildlife available in Tsavo West National Park include; Vast herds of dust–red elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, Pods of hippo, Crocodile, Waterbucks, Lesser Kudu, Gerenuk, Hirola

Lugard Falls

A series of white-water rapids named after Frederick Lugard that offers a scenic view. It also provides tourists with an opportunity for crocodile observation and other wildlife viewing & photography along the river.

Athi-Galana-Sabaki River

Formed within the park by the convergence of the Athi and Tsavo rivers. The river is a water source for wildlife and supports riverine vegetation, making it a key area for wildlife spotting.

Mudanda Rock

A 1.6-kilometer (0.99-mile) inselberg acting as a water catchment providing a natural dam. This massive rock formation attracts animals to the water it collects. Therefore, it is the perfect location for game viewing & photograhy, especially during the dry season.

Aruba Dam

A famous watering hole for wildlife attracting various animals and birds.

The Big Five

Tsavo East National Park is home to the famous “Big Five” animals – Lions, Elephants, Leopards, Buffaloes and Rhinos. The park offers tourists the chance to see these iconic species in their natural habitat.

Yatta Plateau

The world’s longest lava flow stretching about 290 kilometers (180 miles). This Plateau offers a spectacular landscape and wildlife viewpoint.

Flat Dry Plains

The Tsavo East National Park is predominantly flat with dry plains.

Tsavo East National Park Activities

Tsavo East National Park Safaris guarantees a remarkable adventure to every nature enthusiast. Given its geographical features & inhabitants, visitors can participate in several activities. Below are among the activities available in the Tsavo East National Park;

Game Viewing & Photography

Tsavo East National Park is renowned for its picturesque game-viewing opportunities. The park’s vast open plains are home to a wide array of wildlife, including the famous Big Five – Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos, and Buffaloes.

One of the unique sights in Tsavo East is the “red elephants,” whose skins are colored by the park’s distinctive red soil. Game drives, conducted by experienced guides, allow visitors to see these animals in their natural habitat.

Early morning and late afternoon drives are particularly rewarding, as animals are more active during these cooler periods.

Bird Watching & Photography

Tsavo East National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, hosting over 500 recorded bird species. Among the birds’ highlights are the Ostrich, African skimmer, Crowned crane, and the rare Taita falcon.

Tsavo East National Park’s diverse habitats, ranging from riverine forests to open savannah, attract a variety of birdlife. Therefore, it is an ideal destination for bird watchers.

Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to spot birds, as they are most active during these cooler hours.

Camping

Camping in Tsavo East offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The park provides several public and private campsites, allowing visitors to experience the African bush up close.

Campers can enjoy the thrill of sleeping under the stars, with the sounds of wildlife as a natural soundtrack. Basic amenities are available at most campsites, but it’s advisable to bring essential camping gear. Visitors must also adhere to park regulations and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.

Trekking

Tsavo East trekking provides an adventurous way to explore the park’s diverse landscapes on foot. Guided treks allow visitors to experience the park’s flora and fauna up close, offering different views from the game drives.

Popular trekking routes include the areas around the Galana River, Mudanda Rock, and the Yatta Plateau. Tsavo East National Park trekking varies in difficulty and duration. Therefore, both casual walkers and seasoned hikers get to choose suitable trails for themselves.

Best Time to Visit Tsavo East National Park

  • Dry Season: June to October, ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
  • Wet Season: November to May offers lush landscapes and bird-watching opportunities but can make some roads impassable.
Tsavo east national park

Tsavo East National Park Accommodations 

Tsavo East offers various accommodations that suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Below are some of the accommodations available in Tsavo East National Park:

Tsavo East National Park Lodges 

  • Satao Tented Camp
  • Doa-Doa Safari Club Tented Camp & Lodge
  • Ndololo Camp
  • Kiboko Camp
  • Ithumba Camp

Tsavo East National Park Lodges 

  • Sentrim Tsavo Lodge
  • Voi Wildlife Lodge
  • Voi Safari Lodge
  • Epiya Chapeyu
tsavo national park

Safety Guides and Tips 

  • Tsavo East National Parks are in a malaria-endemic area. Take anti-malarial medication, use mosquitos’ repellent
  • Carry plenty of drinking water to avoid dehydration
  • If camping, set up your site in designated areas and ensure your tent is securely zipped to prevent animals from entering.
  • If using a campfire, keep it small to avoid attracting animals and extinguish it completely before leaving
  • Travel with a professional tour guide

Tsavo East National Park FAQs 

Tsavo East National Park is in southeastern Kenya, near the town of Voi in Taita-Taveta County. It is accessible from the Mombasa-Nairobi highway.

Pack essential items include comfortable footwear, light clothes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first aid kit, binoculars, and plenty of water. If camping, ensure you have camping gear.

At Tsavo East National Park visitors can engage in game drives, bird watching, nature walks, and photography.

The best time to visit Tsavo East is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. During these periods, it is easier to spot wildlife.

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