Tsavo East National Park

Location:

Tsavo East National Park is situated in the southeastern region of Kenya, close to the coast. It is located approximately 110 miles from the town of Voi and around 260 miles from the capital city, Nairobi. As the largest national park in Kenya, Tsavo East is nestled in the Taru Desert and shares its eastern border with the Chyulu Hills National Park, which lies to the east of the southern Kenya Rift Valley.

Size:

Spanning an expansive area of approximately 5,300 square miles, Tsavo East National Park showcases its vastness and offers abundant wildlife and natural wonders to explore.

History:

While the Tsavo region was traversed by traders as early as the mid-600s, Tsavo East National Park was officially gazetted in 1949 when the A109 road was constructed, effectively dividing the original Tsavo National Park into Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Alongside Tsavo West, Tsavo East is renowned as one of the largest parks in Kenya. The park derives its name from the Tsavo River, which flows from west to east through its expansive territory.

Entrance Fees & Permits:

For visitors planning a day trip to Tsavo East National Park, the entrance fee is approximately USD$60 per person. Alternatively, guests staying at one of the camps or lodges within the park may have their entrance fees included in their accommodation package.

Hours of Operation:

Tsavo East National Park welcomes visitors from 6 am to 6 pm, providing ample daylight hours to explore the park’s stunning landscapes and observe its diverse wildlife.

How To Get To Tsavo East National Park

Safari By Road:
To reach Tsavo East National Park from Nairobi by road, you have two options: a safari jeep or a scheduled transfer. The distance is approximately 230 miles, and the journey typically takes around six hours. Starting from Nairobi, you’ll head southeast along the Uhuru Highway, which eventually merges with the A104/Mombasa Road. If you’re traveling from Mombasa, the distance is about 125 miles, and the drive usually takes around three hours.
Safari By Air:
Flying from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Tsavo East National Park is a convenient option. The flight duration is approximately 60 minutes. From Mombasa, the flight time is around 30 minutes. You can choose to fly into Voi Airport and then take a three-hour transfer to reach Tsavo East National Park.
Safari By Train:
Traveling to Tsavo East National Park by train provides a unique experience. You can board the Madaraka Express from either Nairobi or Mombasa. The journey from Nairobi takes approximately two hours and forty-five minutes, while from Mombasa, it takes about one and a half hours. The train arrives at the Vol Terminal, and we will organize your transfer to your accommodation.

The Best Time to Visit Tsavo East National Park

Climate and Weather Conditions:
The winter months, specifically June, July, and August, offer the best time to visit Tsavo East National Park. During this period, the weather is characterized by dry air, cooler temperatures, and lower vegetation, creating ideal conditions for observing wildlife. Although evenings and early mornings may be chilly, the days are generally mild, providing a comfortable safari experience.
Not Overcrowded:
To avoid crowds, it is recommended to visit during the low season, rather than the peak season when many safari-goers from around the world flock to the park. During the low season, there are fewer vehicles in the parks, allowing for a more intimate and serene wildlife encounter. Additionally, this period offers unique wildlife events and experiences, such as the birthing season or the great migration, adding extra value to your visit.
Value for Money:
Opting for a safari during the low season can also provide better value for money. While still receiving a qualified safari experience, you can enjoy lower prices compared to the peak seasons. Knowledgeable guides, well-versed in the tracks and trails of the parks and reserves, will be able to guide you to the areas where wildlife congregates during that specific time of year, enhancing your overall safari experience.

Wildlife & Sightseeing in Tsavo East National Park:

Tsavo East National Park offers incredible wildlife experiences with diverse landscapes and abundant animal sightings. The park is known for its “Red Elephants,” named after the distinctive soil color. Visitors can also encounter fascinating animals like Dik-Diks, Lesser Kudus, Gerenuks, and Porcupines. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled to find over 500 bird species in the park.

Tsavo East Landscape:

Tsavo East National Park boasts vast flatlands with savannas and grasslands, adorned by scattered acacia trees and rocky areas that enhance its charm. The park’s notable features include the Yatta Plateau and Lugard Falls, offering unique perspectives of its natural beauty. The tranquil Aruba Dam is a wonderful spot to observe abundant wildlife in their natural habitat.
Tsavo East National Park truly captivates visitors with its stunning wildlife and awe-inspiring landscape. Whether marveling at the iconic “Red Elephants,” exploring the flat plains, or immersing oneself in the vibrant birdlife, this park promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Exploring Wildlife in Tsavo East National Park:

The primary and favored method to encounter the wildlife of Tsavo East National Park is through exhilarating game drives. Whether you opt for an early morning, full day, or late afternoon drive, this adventure allows you to immerse yourself in the park’s diverse fauna. You have the choice of an open vehicle provided by select lodges, providing an unobstructed view, or an enclosed 4×4 vehicle equipped with large windows for optimal wildlife viewing.

Discovering on Foot: Guided Walking Safaris in Tsavo East:

For those seeking a more intimate and immersive experience, Tsavo East National Park offers guided walking safaris. These captivating excursions mainly take place along the Galana River and are led by qualified safari guides. Embarking on foot allows you to intimately connect with the natural surroundings, observe the finer details of the ecosystem, and witness wildlife up close in their natural habitat.

Experience Unforgettable Accommodations in Tsavo East

Tsavo East National Park offers diverse safari accommodations for an unforgettable stay amidst the wildlife-rich landscape. From colonial lodgings to cozy chalets and luxurious tented camps, there’s something for everyone. These accommodations provide optimal game viewing opportunities and come with inclusive African Memorable Safaris tour packages, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

Tsavo East Safari Lodges and Camps with distances to the park entrance:

• Satao Camp: Situated 27 miles from the Voi Gate in the southwestern part of the park, this camp offers an enchanting retreat as you venture deeper into Tsavo East’s captivating wilderness.
• Sentrim Tsavo East: Only 7.5 miles away from the Voi Gate, this accommodation provides easy access to the park, offering a comfortable base for exploration. It is located approximately 85 miles from the center of Tsavo East National Park.
• Ashnil Aruba Lodge: Nestled just 17 miles from the Voi Gate, this lodge beckons travelers to indulge in its tranquil surroundings within Tsavo East Park, creating an idyllic escape amidst nature.
• Ngutuni Safari Lodge: A mere 9 miles from the Voi Gate, this lodge is located to the south, adjacent to Tsavo East Park, in a conservancy. It provides a unique opportunity to experience the wildlife both inside and outside the park.
• Lion Hill Lodge: Located a short distance of 1 mile from the Voi Gate, this lodge takes you slightly west of Tsavo East National Park. With its strategic positioning, you can explore the park effortlessly while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
• Voi Wildlife Lodge: Situated 2 miles from the Voi Gate, this lodge borders the Tsavo East Park to the west and south. Immerse yourself in the natural splendor while relishing the convenience of being close to the park’s entrance.