Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks, covering over 13,000 square kilometers. Located between Nairobi and Mombasa, it forms part of the great Tsavo ecosystem alongside Tsavo West. Famous for its red elephants, dramatic landscapes, and wild, open spaces, Tsavo East offers a raw and authentic safari experience away from the crowds.

Why Visit Tsavo East?

If you’re looking for vast horizons, excellent wildlife sightings, and fewer tourists, Tsavo East is the perfect safari destination. The park is characterized by open savannah, semi-arid grasslands, and the lifeline of the Galana River, which draws in animals all year round.

Key highlights include:

• Red Elephants: Thanks to the iron-rich soil, elephants here appear red after dust-bathing—iconic and photogenic.

• The Galana River: One of Kenya’s largest rivers, it snakes through the park, offering lush vegetation and great game viewing.

• Mudanda Rock: A natural rock formation providing panoramic views and a watering point below that attracts wildlife.

• Yatta Plateau: The world’s longest lava flow, stretching 290 km—a true geological wonder.

• Lugard Falls: A series of white water rapids along the Galana River.

Wildlife in Tsavo East

Tsavo East is home to the “Big Five” and much more. Game viewing is superb, especially during the dry season when animals gather around water sources. Wildlife highlights include:

• Elephants (especially the red dust-covered herds)

• Lions (including the famed maneless lions of Tsavo)

• Leopards

• Buffalos

• Rhinos (best spotted in the neighboring Tsavo West)

• Giraffes, Zebras, Kudus, Waterbucks

• Over 500 bird species, including hornbills, kingfishers, and ostriches

Top Things to Do in Tsavo East

• Game Drives: Enjoy sunrise or sunset game drives for the best wildlife viewing.

• Visit the Yatta Plateau: Marvel at the world’s longest lava flow.

• Explore Lugard Falls: Watch the Galana River force its way through eroded rocks.

• Photograph Red Elephants: Capture unique images of Tsavo’s dusty giants.

• Nature Walks (in designated areas): Learn about local flora, tracks, and smaller creatures with an expert guide.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for wildlife viewing is June to October and January to February—the dry seasons when animals congregate around water sources. The park remains open year-round, with birdwatching at its peak from November to April when migratory species arrive.

How to Get to Tsavo East

• By Road: Approx. 3–4 hours from Mombasa or 5–6 hours from Nairobi via the Mombasa–Nairobi Highway.

• By Air: Several airstrips (like Voi and Aruba) allow for chartered flights directly into the park.

Where to Stay

Tsavo East offers a range of accommodation options:

• Luxury lodges with views of watering holes and savannah

• Mid-range tented camps ideal for immersive bush experiences

• Budget campsites for adventurous travelers

Popular lodges include:

• Ashnil Aruba Lodge

• Satao Camp

• Voi Safari Lodge

Fun Fact: The Man-Eaters of Tsavo

Tsavo East has a legendary history—home to the infamous Man-Eaters of Tsavo, two lions that terrorized railway workers in 1898. Their story is immortalized in books and films like The Ghost and the Darkness. You can visit the bridge where the events occurred near the Tsavo River.

Why Tsavo East Stands Out

• Size & Solitude: One of the largest parks in Africa—great for avoiding tourist congestion.

• Photographer’s Dream: From red elephants to lava plateaus, the scenery is surreal.

• Perfect Safari Add-On: Ideal for beach-to-bush safaris from the Kenyan coast.

Plan Your Tsavo East Safari

A visit to Tsavo East National Park offers a classic Kenyan safari experience with fewer crowds, dramatic landscapes, and incredible wildlife. Whether you’re on a luxury getaway or a rugged camping adventure, Tsavo East is a wild gem waiting to be explored.