Tsavo East National Park, often referred to as a “Theatre of the Wild,” is a captivating expanse in Kenya, characterized by its rich, red earth and diverse habitats. This park is renowned for its large herds of red elephants that paint a striking picture against the backdrop of the dusty African plains.
Alongside these iconic creatures, the park houses an array of wildlife including lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. The Galana River, a life source in this arid landscape, offers a refreshing reprieve to animals and adds a vibrant streak of green across the territory. Tsavo East’s vastness and raw beauty make it a prime destination for adventurers seeking a genuine safari experience.
- Watch elephants indulge in the blue waters of the Galana River, a truly mesmerizing sight.
- Traverse the extensive Yatta Plateau, the longest lava flow on the planet.
- Encounter diverse wildlife, from the majestic lions to the elusive lesser kudu.
- Discover over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Tsavo East is a vibrant ecosystem that invites you to explore and connect with nature on a deep level. Come and experience the wild beauty in its purest form with our Kenya Safaris.
Best Time To Visit
Experience Tsavo East’s red dust elephants, majestic and playful, as they transform the park into a live canvas of wildlife wonders.
The best periods to visit Tsavo East are during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February. These months offer optimal wildlife viewing as animals gather around scarce water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is generally sunny with little rainfall, reducing the risk of malaria.
However, the park’s scenery can be dustier and less vibrant during these times. In contrast, the wet season from November to May brings lush landscapes and vibrant greenery, though wildlife may be harder to spot as they spread out across the park.
Wildlife
Tsavo East National Park is a wonderful place to see wild animals in their natural home. This park is famous for its big herds of elephants that are often seen with a coating of red dust. Although there are no rhinos, you can easily spot lions and sometimes even cheetahs out on the open plains.
Other animals like buffalos, zebras, and Masai giraffes also roam around the park. You might also see some special types of antelopes here, such as the fringe-eared oryx and the shy lesser kudu. If you’re really lucky, you could even spot the very rare Hunter’s hartebeest.
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons, particularly from August to September, when wildlife visibility is at its peak due to lower grass levels and longer viewing distances. However, safaris can be more expensive during this peak period. For budget travelers, the low season from May to June offers lower rates.
Tsavo East is famous for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, kudu, gerenuk, and the rare hirola. The park is particularly renowned for its large herds of dust-red elephants.
Yes, the park has a rich history and was once the hunting ground for the infamous Tsavo Man-Eaters, two lions famously depicted in the 1997 film “The Ghost and the Darkness.” Visitors can explore various historical and natural landmarks within the park.
Entrance fees for Tsavo East are as follows: Adults (non-resident) $75, Children (non-resident) $40, Adult residents Ksh 1200, and Children residents Ksh 600. Vehicle fees vary based on seating capacity, starting from Ksh 200 for vehicles with less than 6 seats.
The park can be accessed through four main gates: Voi, Manyani, Buchuma, and Sala. Visitors must obtain a smart card at Voi gate or other designated locations and load it with money to cover entrance fees. This card is also used for entry at other gates once loaded.
Mammals
Encounter the Big Five and diverse species in a vast wilderness.
Birds
Home to over 500 species, ideal for birdwatching all year.
Yatta
Visit the world's longest lava flow at the Yatta Plateau.
Mudanda
Watch wildlife gather at Mudanda Rock's natural waterhole.
Lugard
Explore the scenic Lugard Falls along the Galana River.
Aruba
Discover Aruba Dam, a vital water source for local wildlife.
