Tsavo East National Park

Overview

Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya’s oldest and largest parks, covering over 13,000 square kilometers. Known as the “Theater of the Wild,” it is famed for its vast open savannahs, dramatic landscapes, and large elephant herds often seen dust-red from the park’s iron-rich soil. With fewer crowds compared to other parks, Tsavo East offers a raw, authentic safari experience that appeals to both first-time visitors and seasoned adventurers.

Why Visit Tsavo East?

• Red-dusted Elephants – Spot massive herds of elephants coated in Tsavo’s signature red soil.

• Untamed Wilderness – Vast landscapes with fewer tourists, ideal for those seeking a remote safari.

• Diverse Wildlife – Home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, rhino) and over 500 bird species.

• Scenic Landmarks – Marvel at features like Lugard’s Falls, Yatta Plateau (world’s longest lava flow), and the Galana River.

• Cultural Heritage – Learn about the infamous “Man-Eaters of Tsavo” lions that gained worldwide notoriety during the construction of the Kenya-Uganda railway.

When to Visit

• Best Time: June to October and January to February (dry seasons) – best for game viewing as animals gather around water sources.

• Green Season: November, March to May – lush landscapes, ideal for photography and birdwatching, though wildlife may be more scattered.

How to Get There

• By Road: Approximately 5–6 hours’ drive from Nairobi via the Nairobi–Mombasa highway, or 3–4 hours from Mombasa.

• By Air: Several airstrips within the park make it accessible by chartered flights from Nairobi or Mombasa.

Location

Tsavo East is located in southeastern Kenya, between Nairobi and Mombasa. It forms part of the greater Tsavo ecosystem alongside Tsavo West National Park, covering a combined area larger than Switzerland.

Popular Attractions

• Aruba Dam – A permanent waterhole attracting elephants, lions, and numerous other species.

• Lugard’s Falls – A rugged series of whitewater rapids on the Galana River.

• Yatta Plateau – The world’s longest lava flow, stretching over 300 km.

• Mudanda Rock – A towering rock formation that provides panoramic views and acts as a water catchment area, attracting wildlife.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury Lodges: Ashnil Aruba Lodge, Satao Camp, Sentrim Tsavo Lodge.

• Mid-range Camps: Manyatta Camp, Voi Safari Lodge.

• Budget Options: Public campsites and bandas managed by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

Travel Tips

• Carry sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water—Tsavo East is hot and dry.

• A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for exploring the park, especially during the wet season.

• Park entry fees are payable via the eCitizen platform (no cash payments accepted).

• Tsavo is malaria-prone, so carry mosquito repellent and consult your doctor about prophylaxis.

• Combine your visit with Tsavo West National Park for a more rounded safari experience.