Tsavo East National Park Tours & Safaris

Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya's largest and most renowned national parks, covering approximately 13,747 square kilometers. It is located in the southeastern part of the country and forms part of the greater Tsavo Conservation Area, alongside Tsavo West National Park. The park is famous for its rugged terrain, scenic landscapes, and incredible diversity of wildlife. It is bordered by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, making it easily accessible to visitors. Tsavo East was established in 1948 and is home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna, making it a top destination for safari enthusiasts.

Wildlife

Tsavo East National Park is renowned for its diverse range of wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for game viewing. Some of the iconic animals that visitors can spot include:

• African Elephants: The park is famous for its large herds of elephants, including the famous "red elephants" that take on a reddish hue due to the red soil of the region.
• Lions: The park is home to a healthy population of lions, and their distinctive roars echo throughout the park, especially during the early morning and late evening.
• Cheetahs: Tsavo East is one of the best places in Kenya to see cheetahs, as they roam the open plains in search of prey.
• Giraffes: Both the Maasai and reticulated giraffes are found in the park, adding a unique touch to the landscape.
• Zebras, Wildebeests, and Antelope: Large herds of plains game, such as zebra, wildebeest, gazelles, and hartebeests, are commonly spotted across the park.
• Hippos and Crocodiles: Tsavo East is home to several river systems and waterholes that attract hippos and crocodiles, adding to the variety of animals one can see.
• Other Species: Other notable wildlife includes buffalo, hyenas, leopards, and various species of primates.

Birds

Tsavo East is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 500 bird species recorded in the park. The diverse habitats, including savannahs, rivers, and wetlands, provide ideal conditions for both migratory and resident birds. Some of the notable bird species include:

• Vultures: Several species of vultures, such as the white-backed vulture, can be seen circling overhead, especially around carcasses.
• Eagle Species: Tsavo East is home to the tawny eagle, martial eagle, and the African fish eagle.
• Secretary Bird: Known for its striking appearance and tall stature, the secretary bird is a frequent sight in the park.
• Hornbills and Parrots: Various species of hornbills and parrots are abundant, adding vibrant color to the park.
• Flamingos: During the wet season, flamingos can often be seen in large numbers at water sources within the park.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Tsavo East National Park is during the dry seasons, which typically run from June to October and December to February. During this period, the vegetation is thinner, and animals tend to congregate around the water sources, making wildlife sightings more frequent and easier.

• Dry Season (June – October, December – February): This is the peak safari season in Tsavo East, offering optimal game-viewing opportunities.
• Wet Season (March – May): While the park is still beautiful and less crowded during the rainy season, heavy rains may make some roads impassable and wildlife may be more dispersed.

Weather & Climate

Tsavo East National Park experiences an arid climate characterized by hot temperatures and seasonal rainfall.

• Temperatures: Daytime temperatures typically range from 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F), with the hottest months being February and March.
• Rainfall: The park experiences two main rainy seasons: the long rains (March to May) and the short rains (October to December). The rainiest months are April and May, while the short rains tend to be less intense.
• Humidity: The park can be quite humid during the wet season, but the dry season is generally more comfortable for visitors.

How To Get There

Tsavo East National Park is easily accessible by road and air.

• By Road: The park is located about 330 kilometers southeast of Nairobi and 120 kilometers west of Mombasa. Visitors can drive from Nairobi or Mombasa via the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. The park is well-connected with various access points, including the Manyani Gate and Voi Gate.
• By Air: Tsavo East is served by several airstrips, including the Voi and Tsavo airstrips. Domestic flights from Nairobi, Mombasa, or other regional airports can take you close to the park, with private charters or scheduled flights landing near the park.

Health & Safety

• Vaccinations: It is recommended to get vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A before visiting Tsavo East. Malaria is also common in the area, so antimalarial medication and insect repellent are advisable.
• Safety Tips: Visitors should always follow the guidelines of their tour guides or park rangers. It is important to stay inside the vehicle when on game drives and avoid approaching wildlife, especially predators like lions and leopards.
• Hydration: Due to the hot climate, it’s essential to stay hydrated and wear appropriate clothing (lightweight, long sleeves, and hats) to protect yourself from the sun.
• Wildlife Safety: Always be cautious when near wildlife and follow instructions from guides and rangers to ensure your safety and that of the animals.

FAQs

• Q: Do I need a guide to visit Tsavo East? A: While you can visit Tsavo East on your own, it is highly recommended to hire a guide for a better experience. Guides are knowledgeable about the park and can help you spot wildlife and navigate the terrain.

• Q: Are there accommodations in Tsavo East? A: Yes, Tsavo East offers a range of accommodations, including lodges, tented camps, and budget campsites. Some popular options include Voi Safari Lodge, Satao Camp, and Ashnil Aruba Lodge.

• Q: Can I do a night game drive in Tsavo East? A: Night game drives are allowed in Tsavo East, and they offer a chance to see nocturnal wildlife like leopards, hyenas, and nocturnal birds. However, they can only be conducted with a licensed tour operator.

• Q: What should I bring for a safari in Tsavo East? A: Essential items to bring include binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, lightweight clothing, and comfortable shoes for walking.

• Q: Is it safe to visit Tsavo East during the rainy season? A: While the park is generally safe to visit year-round, the wet season can bring muddy roads and less predictable weather, making travel more challenging. If you're prepared for rain and potential road closures, it can be a quieter and more peaceful time to visit.

• Q: How much time should I spend in Tsavo East? A: A typical visit to Tsavo East can last between 2 to 4 days, depending on your itinerary and interests. Longer stays allow for more thorough exploration and more wildlife sightings.

With its captivating landscapes and abundant wildlife, Tsavo East National Park is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Kenya. Whether you're an avid wildlife photographer or a first-time safari-goer, Tsavo East promises an unforgettable adventure.