Tsavo East Safari Destination
“Theatre of the wild”
Well known as the home to the red-dusted elephants, Tsavo East National Park is a national park in Kenya, and spans with an area of 13,747 km2 (5,308 sq mi). Together with the Tsavo West National Park, it forms an area of about 22,000 square kilometers, and the two forms the biggest of Kenya’s parks.
The sight of dust-red elephants wallowing, rolling and spraying each other with the midnight blue waters of the palm-shaded Galana River is one of the most evocative images in Africa. In addition to this, is the 300-kilometre-long Yatta Plateau, the longest lava flow in the world, makes Tsavo East National Park a superb place to watch wildlife.
The park forms the largest protected area in Kenya and is home to most of the big 5 wildlife; vast herds of dust –red elephant, Rhino, buffalo, unique maneless lions, leopard, pods of hippo, crocodile, waterbucks, lesser Kudu, gerenuk and the prolific bird life features 500 recorded species. Tsavo East’s wild plains host other highlights, from occasional cheetah sightings to species such as gerenuk and Somali ostrich that you can see nowhere else this far south.
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Tsavo East Landscape & Scenery
Tsavo East National Park is much flatter, more open plains and scattered bush; and you’ll experience barren plains, grasslands and semi-arid shrub. Generally, Tsavo East is mostly a vast flat plain of sandy soil, split by the shallow trough of the Galana River. The Galana, which rises in the central highlands and whose upper reaches are known as the Athi, is one of Kenya’s biggest rivers. Its valley – rocky in much of its western course, sandy and doum-palm fringed further east – is one of Tsavo East National Park’s defining physical features.
The plains either side of Aruba Dam can be good for cheetahs. A slight detour brings the Kanderi Swamp (popular with elephants) and Voi River (with lush riverine forests) into play. Nearby, Mudanda Rock, a towering rock formation, offers sweeping views from the summit. The wild, croc-filled Galana River runs through the north.
The Best Tourist Attractions In Tsavo East Park
Let’s have a look as to why Tsavo East is the “Theatre of the wild”. On your safari to Tsavo East National Park, the game drives will take you in search of the herds of dust-red elephants, fat pods of hippos, giant crocodiles and a series of bird life are set against a blazing backdrop of endless bush; – But there is more to it.
1. Galana River
Galana River; Running through the heart Tsavo National Park and marking the northernmost point in the park that most visitors are allowed to visit, the Galana River, combining waters of the Tsavo and Athi Rivers, it cuts a green tear across the dusty plains. If you make it this far, prepare for sightings of crocs, hippos, lesser kudus, waterbucks, dik-diks and, to a lesser extent, lions and possible sightings of leopards are relatively common.
2. Aruba Dam
Aruba dam; Built in 1952 the beautiful Aruba dam located to the north bank of the seasonal Voi River is visited by thousands of animals in the park, and water birds making it a great game viewing destination. It’s the seasonal Voi River, runs east through this part of the park, feeding the shallow Aruba dam and then meandering to the coast. Away to the east and southeast, all the way down to Buchuma Gate, the open grasslands over here provide the perfect habitat for cheetahs and sightings which are possible.
3. Mudanda Rock
Mudanda Rock; towering over a natural dam near Manyani gate, the Mudanda Rock is an inselberg of stratified rock that towers above a natural dam. This rock formation runs for over 1.6 km (0.99 mi) and it attracts hundreds of elephants in the dry season and is a reminiscent of Australia’s Uluru (Ayers Rock-like sandstone inselberg), though on a much smaller scale; – this area attracts a large number of animals, with leopards and elephants are among the wildlife to watch out for here.
4. Yatta Plateau
Yatta Plateau; The Yatta Plateau is a 300km world’s longest lava flow that stretches along the east and north bank of the above the Athi-Galana-Sabaki River. Formed by lava from Ol Donyo Sabuk Mountain, its geomagnetic qualities are believed to play a role in guiding migratory birds and large numbers of Palearctic migrants can be seen in the area.
5. Lugard’s Falls
Lugard’s Falls; named after Frederick Lugard (an explorer of Africa), is a series of white-water rapids on the Athi-Galana River; – the falls feature a bizarrely eroded rock neck through which the waters of Galana River plunge into foaming rapids and crocodile infested pools. Lugard is a crocodile Point, where the big reptiles can often be seen basking in the sun. At some point on most Tsavo East safaris, you’re almost bound to stop here to stretch your legs and takes photos.
When considering a Tsavo East safari, it’s worth knowing that nearly all safaris take place in the south of the park, south of the Galana River.
6. Crocodile Point
Crocodile Point; still on Galana, if you’ve made it out to the Galana River, this vantage point high above the riverbank is the place to spot crocs. Infact, its nearly where all safaris takes place.
7. Kanderi Swamp
Kanderi Swamp; Kanderi swamp is a wetland area in Tsavo East National Park, well positioned near the Tsavo River, and approximately 10km from Voi Gate. Kanderi Swamp is home to some of Tasvo resident pride of lions, and elephants which congregate near here; this is one of only two water sources in the park during the dry season, meaning there are good possibilities for wildlife sightings.
Top 3 Things To Do In Tsavo East Park
Discover some of the best things to do in Tsavo East. The setting and climate of Tsavo allows for quality wildlife viewing all-round the year; from birding, bush sundowners, and guided nature walks. Let’s have a look at the notable activities that Tsavo East offers.
1. Safari Game Drives In Tsavo East
The main activity in Tsavo East National Park is the guided game drives, which will take you around the park in search of animals and bird species. The game viewing drives normally start as early as 6:00am. when the gates open, and involve the use of a 4X4 Land Cruiser Jeep with an open roof-top.
As for Night Game drives, a curiosity for many visitors while on an African safari. Please Note that night game drives are not allowed inside the main Tsavo East National Park.
The Land Cruiser safari vehicles accommodate 6 seat passengers (everyone with their own spacious window seat) but can additionally seat up to 8 adults with an extra seat included and with one person sitting beside the Driver. The vehicle has a spacious game viewing roof, is more reliable, strong and spacious enough while also being marginally more comfortable than the only other option.
2. Birding Safaris In Tsavo East
With only two activities permitted in Tsavo East National Park. Tsavo East has an astounding number of bird species.
With over 500 bird species recorded in the area, birdwatching in Tsavo East is a popular excursion for many birding lovers, which will be done together with wildlife viewing, both of which you’ll most likely enjoy on a guided game drive.
3. Bush Meals, Dinners & Sundowners In Tsavo East
Delight in the wide-open sky and space of Tsavo East plains on an unforgettable bush sundowner at Tsavo, where you will be served drinks and cocktails while watching the sight of the African sunset. This usually happens as the sun begins its descent, the sundowner begins with a gentle evening game drive, arriving at the sundowner site just as the evening sky turns gold-pink, surrounded by nothing but scenic views framed by stunning landscapes and magnificent wildlife. (Can at times take place within the lodge premises).
Your chairs will be set up facing towards the extensive scenic Tsavo East plains, accompanied by a well packed mobile bar service and cocktail snacks served in the raw wilderness of the African savannah. Musical entertainment can also be provided at request. After sunset you will be driven back to the lodge in time for dinner.
Picnic Lunch: usually arranged during a full day game outing in the reserve so that one does not have to go back to the lodge or camp for lunch, the meal itself is in the form of packed lunch boxes which are provided by your camp or lodge by prior arrangement the night before to allow them adequate time to prepare the meal boxes. The meal will be enjoyed under a tree, on a scenic setting out in the wild.
Bush Breakfast & Dinners: in the case of a Bush dinner, this could also be an event in itself around a bonfire with entertainment such as light music or tribal dance performances. Bush meals are typically arranged at special chosen sites within Tsavo East National Park – generally located outside of but very near the respective Lodges or Camps. Expect the menus to range from multi-course fine cuisine to more casual bush barbeque meals, prices for these special meals vary widely starting from USD 70 per person all the way to USD 150 per person for a more luxurious bush meal.
Special Requests: the meals can also be arranged to cater for certain special dietary requirements such as gluten free, vegan, vegetarian and even restricted vegetarian such as for Indian Jain diets which exclude use of Onions or Garlic as ingredients. Though choices are limited for bush meals, in-house dining at the lodges or camps promises more dietary options. Make sure you make an early request for easy planning.
Animals & Wildlife In Tsavo East Park
Famous are the unique Tsavo lions, a population whose adult males often lack manes entirely. The Big Five are here, and in addition; – Tsavo East Park is home to most of the larger mammals, the vast herds of dust –red elephant (their red dust coating makes them stand out against the arid environment), Rhino, Masai giraffes, buffalos, lions, leopard, pods of hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, Lesser Kudu, long-necked Gerenuk, Hirola out in the remote far east of the park, and sightings of cheetahs are also possible out on the plains. These are just some of the animals you can expect to see.
That said, this is one of few places to see the fringe-eared oryx. Tsavo East Park has a rich and diverse collection of wildlife, and many safari animals can be seen within a couple of days on your safari in Tsavo.
Best Time For Wildlife Viewing In Tsavo East
While Tsavo East National Park is beautiful all year round, the best time to visit Tsavo East for wildlife watching is in the dry months of (June to October) when the vegetation thins out and animals gather around remaining water sources. Still – the dry months from January to February is also a great time for wildlife viewing. The wettest months are April and November.
Birds & Birdlife In Tsavo East Park
With over 500 species recorded, birdlife is abundant in Tsavo East making it a good birding destination for bird lovers. Just to mention a few, the notable ones include the ostriches, kestrels, buzzards, starlings, weaver birds, kingfishers, hornbills, secretary birds and herons.
Popular Birds In Tsavo East
Black-headed lapwing, Eastern chanting goshawk, Red-winged lark, Rosy-patched bush-shrike, & Vulturine guineafowl.
List Of Birds In Tsavo East National Park
African finfoot, Black-faced sandgrouse, Fischer’s starling, Golden pipit, Golden-breasted starling, Lesser kestrel, Martial eagle, Northern brownbul, Pangani longclaw, Red-bellied parrot, Rufous chatterer, Secretary bird, Shelley’s starling, Slender-tailed nightjar, Somali bee-eater, Somali bunting, Somali ostrich, Taita falcon, Taita fiscal and Vulturine guineafowl.
Best Time For Bird Watching In Tsavo East National Park
The wilderness of Tsavo East Park offers very rewarding birding opportunities all year. Migratory birds arrive in the reserve around November and stay until April. However, be prepared with the weather changes, as short showers can start at any moment. That said, December to February or March are generally best for bird watching.
Best Time To Visit Tsavo East Park
While Tsavo East Park can be visited year-round, wildlife watching is best in the dry months from June to October and again from January to March; during this time there is little to no rainfall, and climate conditions in the park are favorable for wildlife watching. The animals can be spotted around the nearby water holes as they quench their thirst. Now this is a good time to plan a trip to Tsavo East National Park.
Tsavo East’s wet seasons comprise November and April. During these months, wildlife (with water and food more widely available they will spread out) and is more challenging to spot in the long grass. However, if you are a bird lover, then the wet season is perfect to enjoy birdwatching as many migratory birds come here during this season; – getting wet is not an issue.
The Weather & Climate At Tsavo East Park
As for travelers going on safaris to Tsavo East Park can expect a hot, dry climate with average temperatures varying in between 31°C/88°F during daytime and 20°C/68°F at night. For the morning game drives, we highly recommend warm clothing. Given Kenya’s climate pattern, rainfall will be experienced in late April and November, bringing both the long and short rains, respectively. Though the rain tends to fall as short, heavy showers.
Generally, the conditions tend to stay hot and dry throughout the year at Tsavo East. The wet seasons in Tsavo East (November to May) can get particularly hot, especially during the break.
Dry Season In Tsavo East Park – June to October
These are the dry seasons characterized by sunny days – there is no rainfall.
June & July – Days are typically hot and sunny with pleasant temperatures of around 29°C/84°F.
August & September – Both months of August & September are characterized by a rise in daytime temperatures on an average of 29°C/84°F.
October – come October, expect a hot and humid climate, with temperatures increasing prior to the arrival of short November rains.
Wet Season In Tsavo East Park – November to May
Tsavo East’s wetter season is marked by short rains followed by the long rains. Remember, January and February are part of the dry months in between.
November & December – these months signals the start of the short rains in Tsavo East National Park. During this period, expect short afternoon storms with daytime temperatures at an average of 33°C/84°F, which can rise. In addition, the skies tend to be clearer & sunny days possible.
January & February – with the exact timing a little challenging to predict. These months break the rains and welcomes a dry season; – making it good for game viewing, with February labelled as the hottest month, temperatures peaking to an average of 30°C/86°F or even higher.
March, April & May – call it the long rainy season, usually kicks off late in March. Remember, it hardly ever rains all day, just surprising afternoon showers; – still pleasant temperatures characterized by sunshine & clear skies is experienced. Late April can receive the most of rainfall, with an estimated temperatures of around 30°C/86°F.
Galana Wildlife Conservancy
Galana Wildlife Conservancy is a 60,000-acre area within Galana that is fully annexed for conservation. In addition to Tsavo East National Park the Galana is a vital bedrock that supports the beating heart of Tsavo East. Lying to the north east of Tsavo East Park, the Galana Conservancy is similarly characterized with red sandy soil and open areas dotted with acacias and smaller shrubs found in Tsavo East landscape.
Unfenced; – Galana Conservancy acts as an important wildlife corridor, allowing wildlife to move freely in between the national parks and the conservancy. The management of Galana Conservancy was taken over by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust which has been working on conservation initiatives in the area, including the establishment of several anti-poaching teams to tackle the illegal bushmeat trade.
Conservation efforts which have seen the return of elephants, zebras, giraffes, and plains game to this wilderness, nowadays herbivores more lions, leopards, and other predators too can be sighted on the tours to Tsavo, as they take up permanent residence.
The Best Private Tsavo Conservancies
Safari Packages To Tsavo East Park
Want to visit Tsavo East National Park? This is one of the most rewarding safari destinations in southern Kenya that you can easily add on a safari package to Masai Mara. Being close to Nairobi, you can easily start off with short Nairobi daytrip tours then proceed to Tsavo making it easy to visit in a short time frame, and combine it with other parks as well.
You have plenty of choices to pick from, Tsavo midrange safaris to Tsavo luxury safaris depending on your travel style.
Ready To Plan A Private Tsavo East Safari?
Browse our selection of private Tsavo tour packages in Kenya above, or get in touch with one of our African safari experts to help tailor-make the best itinerary for you.