Tsavo National Parks
Tsavo National Parks
Tsavo West covers a huge variety of landscapes, from swamps and natural springs to rocky peaks, extinct volcanic cones to rolling plains and sharp reddish outcrops. Tsavo East is generally flat with dry plains across which the Galana River flows. Other features include the Yatta Plateau, Lugards Falls, Mudanda Rock and Aruba Dam.
Background
Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks together form the largest national park in Kenya, covering just under 22,000 square kilometers. Established in May 1948, the park was divided into east and west for administrative reasons, named after the Tsavo River that flows through the region. Renowned as one of the world’s biodiversity strongholds, Tsavo East is unique in allowing night drives, offering adventurous guests the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife.
While the vast landscape requires patience during game viewing, experienced safari guides are knowledgeable about animal movements and seasonal migration paths, ensuring rewarding experiences. Popular attractions in Tsavo East include Mudanda Rock, Yatta Plateau, and Lugard Falls. Tsavo West features diverse landscapes, ranging from swamps and natural springs to rocky peaks and rolling plains, though dense scrub can make wildlife spotting more challenging.
Destination Highlights
Tsavo East is the perfect destination for exclusive camping, captivating traversing circuits, and thrilling adventures. Visitors can explore the middle area of the park, where they will discover ancient rock and cave paintings that reveal the region’s rich history.
The park is also famous for its legendary lions, particularly two that gained notoriety as “man-eaters.” In the late 1800s, these vicious lions attacked and consumed numerous workers on the Kenya-Uganda railway, a story that inspired the film The Ghost and the Darkness.
Unlike Tsavo West, which features swampy areas, Tsavo East is flatter and more arid, characterized by stunning water features amidst the dry, rolling savannah. This unique landscape provides visitors with a diverse range of experiences, making it an unforgettable safari destination.
Top Holiday Destinations in Tsavo National Parks
A selection of top favourite destinations to visit while visiting Amboseli National Park
Finch Hattons Camp
Kipalo Hills Lodge
Lion's Bluff Lodge
How it works
- Describe your dream trip
- A travel consultant will help curate your experience
- Confirm & start packing