Tsavo East National Park

Covering a total area of 11,700 square kilometers, Tsavo East National Park is the largest park in Kenya. It is located in the Eastern and Coast provinces, across the highway from Tsavo West, southeast of Nairobi.

The park experiences hot temperatures during some months and receives less than 51 cm of annual rainfall. It entices travelers with its diverse and picturesque landscapes, including the gorges of Lugard Falls with their water-carved rocks.

Ranked among the largest game reserves in the world, this protected area with its undeveloped wilderness is home to a variety of wild animals. Commonly seen species include antelopes, hippos, black rhinos, buffaloes, lions, herds of elephants, giraffes, and numerous bird species.

Attractions and Activities in Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East National Park is a must-visit for exclusive camping, remarkable adventures, and game circuits. Highlights include the picture-perfect rock and cave paintings in the middle section of the park. The scrub-covered hills in the southern part and the remote feel add to the park’s charm, attracting thousands of tourists. The best game viewing is often along the watercourses at the Kanderi Swamp, which is not far from the main Voi Gate. Lions are frequently spotted at the Aruba Dam. Other notable attractions include Lugard Falls, Mudanda Rock, and the Yatta Plateau.

 Things to Do in Tsavo East

Game Drives

Game drives in Tsavo East take you to various wildlife-rich spots within the park. As you drive through the wilderness in a vehicle with a pop-up roof, you will observe many wild animals in their natural habitats. Game drives can be done during the day or night. Some animals you may see include impalas, gazelles, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wild boar, buffaloes, and numerous bird species.

Bird Watching

With over 500 species of birds, Tsavo East National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise. This activity is enjoyable year-round, with birders able to spot several unique species, including migratory birds. Common bird species in the park include the African finfoot, black-faced sandgrouse, Fischer’s starling, golden-breasted starling, lesser kestrel, martial eagle, northern brownbul, Pangani longclaw, red-bellied parrot, rufous chatterer, Somali bee-eater, Somali ostrich, golden pipit, vulturine guineafowl, Shelley’s starling, and slender-tailed nightjar.

Guided Walking Safari

Exploring the park on foot offers a unique and immersive experience. Guided walking safaris take you through the picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife. This includes a walk on the world’s longest lava flow at the Yatta Plateau and continues to the volcanic cones, offering scenic views of the crystal-clear waters of the Mzima Springs.

 Accessibility

Tsavo East National Park can be accessed by road and air. The main road into the park is via the Nairobi-Mombasa highway through the Voi Gate. The journey offers a mix of tarmac and murram roads. For those who prefer flying, there are airstrips at the park, making it convenient for visitors who wish to avoid long drives.

Tsavo East National Park offers an incredible mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and adventurous activities, making it a premier destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Kenya’s natural heritage.