Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Kenya, covering an area of approximately 13,747 square kilometers. Located in the southeastern part of the country, it lies midway between Nairobi and Mombasa, making it easily accessible from both cities. The park forms part of the larger Tsavo ecosystem, which also includes Tsavo West National Park. Together, these parks constitute one of the largest protected wildlife areas in the world.

Landscape and Scenery

Tsavo East is characterized by vast open plains, semi-arid scrub, and the Galana River that meanders through the park, providing a lifeline for wildlife. The park’s terrain is relatively flat compared to Tsavo West, and its expansive savannahs make wildlife viewing easier and more rewarding. Highlights of the landscape include the Yatta Plateau, one of the world’s longest lava flows, and the Lugard Falls, where the Galana River cascades through a series of rapids.

Wildlife

Tsavo East is home to a rich variety of wildlife, making it a top destination for safari enthusiasts. Visitors can expect to see:

• Red elephants (coated in red dust from the park’s soil)
• Lions, including the legendary maneless lions of Tsavo
• Leopards
• Cheetahs
• Buffaloes
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Waterbucks
• Hippos and crocodiles along the Galana River
• Over 500 bird species, including ostriches, hornbills, and kingfishers

Attractions

Aruba Dam: A popular spot for wildlife viewing, especially during dry months when animals congregate around the water. Mudanda Rock: A natural rock outcrop that serves as a water catchment and viewpoint for observing elephants and other animals. Lugard Falls: Named after the British explorer Frederick Lugard, the falls are known for their white-water rapids and eroded rock formations. Yatta Plateau: Ideal for photography, it stretches over 290 km and adds a dramatic backdrop to the park’s scenery.

Best Time to Visit

Tsavo East can be visited year-round, but the best wildlife viewing opportunities are during the dry seasons (June to October and January to February), when animals gather around water sources and the roads are more passable.

Accessibility and Accommodation

The park can be accessed via several gates, with the Voi Gate being the most commonly used. It’s well-connected by road and has an airstrip for charter flights. Accommodation options range from budget campsites to luxurious lodges, both inside and around the park. Tsavo East National Park offers a raw and authentic safari experience, where the vast African wilderness and untamed wildlife create memories that last a lifetime.