TSAVO EAST

Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya's oldest and largest national parks, spans approximately 13,747 square kilometers and is part of the larger Tsavo ecosystem, which also includes Tsavo West National Park. Known for its vast savannahs, striking red-dust landscapes, and iconic wildlife, Tsavo East offers visitors an immersive safari experience and a chance to encounter some of Africa’s most impressive animals in a wild and scenic environment.

Key Features of Tsavo East

• The Red Elephants: Tsavo East is famous for its red-colored elephants, which acquire this unique color from dust-bathing in the park's reddish soil. These elephants are part of one of Kenya’s largest elephant populations, often seen in large herds, making Tsavo a prime destination for elephant sightings.

• Lugard Falls: Named after British colonial administrator Frederick Lugard, these falls on the Galana River showcase a stunning rocky gorge where the river tumbles through white and gray rocks. The falls are less about a dramatic drop and more about powerful rapids and a sculpted landscape that’s picturesque and rugged.

• Yatta Plateau: One of the world’s longest lava flows, the Yatta Plateau stretches over 290 kilometers, providing a striking backdrop for game drives and an iconic geological feature that makes Tsavo East unique.

• Aruba Dam: Constructed in 1952, Aruba Dam is a man-made reservoir that attracts wildlife to its waters year-round, making it an ideal spot for game viewing. Animals, including lions, leopards, and various antelope species, frequent the dam, especially during the dry season.

Wildlife in Tsavo East

Tsavo East is known for its rich diversity of wildlife, including the famous “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino). Besides elephants, visitors are likely to see lions, some with a local reputation as “maneless” due to the unique appearance of Tsavo lions, which may have shorter or even absent manes compared to their cousins in other regions. Other wildlife includes giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles, as well as diverse bird species such as the martial eagle, kingfishers, and secretary birds.

Safari Experience in Tsavo East

Tsavo East’s vast and open plains, dotted with baobab trees, provide excellent visibility for game viewing and photography. Popular activities in the park include:

• Game drives along the Galana River, which attracts a variety of animals to its water and is known for beautiful sunrise and sunset views.
• Nature walks and bush picnics for a more intimate experience with the landscape, accompanied by trained guides.
• Birdwatching for spotting unique species, especially around the riverbanks and at Aruba Dam.

Accessibility and Proximity

Tsavo East is about a 2-3 hour drive from Mombasa, making it a popular safari extension for those visiting the Kenyan coast. It’s also accessible from Nairobi, either by road or via chartered flights landing at one of the airstrips within the park, such as Voi or Sala Gate.

Tsavo East is ideal for travelers seeking a more rugged and expansive safari experience, with open landscapes, rich wildlife, and a sense of the untamed wilderness. With its unique geological features and vibrant wildlife, the park captures the essence of Kenya’s raw, natural beauty.