Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks: Twin Jewels of Kenya

Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks are among Kenya’s oldest and largest parks, known for their vast landscapes, rich biodiversity, and significant historical importance. Together, they form one of the world’s largest wildlife sanctuaries, offering distinct experiences due to their differing environments and wildlife.

Location and How to Get There

Geographical Setting

Tsavo East and Tsavo West are situated in southeastern Kenya, split by the A109 road and a railway. Tsavo East is located closer to the coast and is generally flatter and drier, while Tsavo West is more mountainous and moist.

Accessing Tsavo Parks

The parks are accessible by road from Nairobi or Mombasa, which are both about a 4-hour drive away. Air travel options include several airstrips in both parks, accommodating chartered flights.

Key Features of Tsavo East National Park

Landscape and Wildlife

Tsavo East is known for its open, dusty red plains and is famous for its large herds of elephants covered in red dust. The park also hosts lions, leopards, a variety of antelope species, and the endangered hirola.

Iconic Attractions

• Yatta Plateau: The world’s longest lava flow at 290 km.
• Mudanda Rock: A natural water catchment area that attracts wildlife, providing excellent photo opportunities.
• Lugard Falls: Named after Frederick Lugard, this series of white water rapids on the Galana River offers scenic views and a chance to spot crocodiles and hippos.

Key Features of Tsavo West National Park

Landscape and Wildlife

Tsavo West features more diverse landscapes, including mountains, lakes, springs, and lush vegetation. It’s well known for bird watching with over 600 species recorded. The park also supports populations of rhinos, Cape buffaloes, elephants, lions, and cheetahs.

Iconic Attractions

• Mzima Springs: A set of natural springs fed by the Chyulu Hills, providing a perennial source of water to wildlife. Visitors can watch hippos and fish from an underwater observation chamber.
• Shetani Lava Flow: A vast expanse of folded black lava spreading over 50 km², which is said to have been formed only a few hundred years ago.
• Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary: A refuge for the critically endangered black rhino.

Activities in Tsavo

Safari Drives

Both parks offer extensive game drives where visitors can explore diverse habitats and observe a plethora of wildlife. The vastness of the area provides a serene and uncrowded experience.

Bird Watching

Tsavo West, with its lush vegetation and water bodies, is particularly good for birding, offering a chance to see both local and migratory species.

Cultural Experiences

Visitors can interact with the local communities living around the parks, particularly the Maasai, to learn about their traditional lifestyles and customs.

Accommodation Options

Lodges and Camps

Both parks boast a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury lodges to eco-friendly campsites. These are designed to offer comfort while preserving the surrounding wilderness.

Camping

For the more adventurous, numerous campsites are available that allow for an immersive experience in the Kenyan wild.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tsavo East and Tsavo West is during the dry seasons, from June to October and from January to February. These periods offer the best wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.

Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks offer unique safari experiences with their contrasting landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether you are trekking through the rugged terrains of Tsavo West or exploring the expansive plains of Tsavo East, these parks provide unforgettable adventures in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness.