Tsavo National Park

Location: Southeastern Kenya, between Nairobi and Mombasa
Total Area: Approx. 22,000 km² (split into Tsavo East and Tsavo West)
Established: 1948
Divided by: The Nairobi–Mombasa highway and railway line

🔴 Tsavo East National Park

• Size: ~13,747 km²

• Landscape: Flat, open plains, semi-arid terrain, red soil

• Key Attractions:

  • Red Elephants of Tsavo (elephants coated with red dust)

  • Galana River

  • Yatta Plateau (world’s longest lava flow)

  • Mudanda Rock and Lugard Falls

• Best For: Easier wildlife viewing due to open terrain

🔵 Tsavo West National Park

• Size: ~9,065 km²

• Landscape: Rugged, scenic, volcanic hills, lush springs

• Key Attractions:

  • Mzima Springs (clear pools with hippos and fish)

  • Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary (black rhino protection area)

  • Shetani Lava Flow

  • Chaimu Crater

• Best For: Scenic drives, photography, walking safaris

• Big Five: Elephants, lions (including the legendary “man-eaters of Tsavo”), leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos

• Others: Giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, cheetahs, hyenas, baboons, antelopes

• Birdlife: 500+ species including hornbills, eagles, weavers, and starlings

• • Dry Season: June to October – great for wildlife spotting

  • Wet Season: November to May – lush landscapes, ideal for birdwatching

• • By Road: ~5–6 hours from Nairobi or Mombasa

  • By Train: SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) stops at Voi, Mtito Andei, and Manyani

  • Accommodation: Safari lodges, eco-camps, tented camps inside and outside the park

• Less crowded than more famous parks like Maasai Mara or Amboseli

• Offers a true wilderness experience

• Ideal for combining bush and beach holidays (close to Kenyan Coast)