Location

Tsavo East National Park is located in Kenya’s South East, near the coast. It is approximately 110 miles from the town of Voi and about 260 miles from Nairobi. Known as the largest National Park in Kenya, Tsavo East lies in the Taru Desert and borders the Chyulu Hills National Park, east of the southern Kenya Rift Valley.

Size

The park covers an area of around 5,300 square miles.

History

Although traversed by traders in the mid-600s, Tsavo East National Park was officially gazetted in 1949 when the A109 was built, dividing the Tsavo National Park into Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Named after the Tsavo River, which flows from west to east through the park, Tsavo East and Tsavo West together are among the largest parks in Kenya.

Entrance Fees & Permits

Entrance fees to Tsavo East are approximately USD $60 per person per day, whether visiting for a day or staying at one of the camps or lodges in the park.

Hours of Operation

Tsavo East National Park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

How to Get There

By Road

Travel from Nairobi by Safari Jeep or scheduled transfer is a 230-mile drive taking approximately six hours, traveling southeast along the Uhuru Highway and merging with the A104/Mombasa Road. From Mombasa, the 125-mile drive takes approximately three hours.

By Air

Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport take about 60 minutes, and from Mombasa about 30 minutes. Guests can fly into Voi Airport for a three-hour transfer, or into Kilaguni or Finch Hattons airstrips in Tsavo West, then continue by road to Tsavo East lodges or camps.

By Train

The Madaraka Express provides a unique travel option: approximately 2 hours 45 minutes from Nairobi and 1.5 hours from Mombasa. The train stops at the Voi Terminal, where lodge and camp representatives meet guests for transfer to accommodations.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

The winter months of June, July, and August are ideal for safaris in Tsavo East. The air is dry, temperatures cooler, and lower vegetation makes wildlife easier to spot. Evenings and early mornings can be chilly, but daytime temperatures are generally mild.

Avoiding Crowds

Peak season attracts international tourists, which can mean crowded game drives. Traveling during the “green” or low season allows for fewer vehicles, better wildlife experiences such as birthing seasons, and unique migratory events.

Value for Money

Traveling outside peak season ensures a qualified safari experience at lower cost, with experienced guides who know where wildlife gathers at specific times of the year.

Wildlife and Landscape

Popular Wildlife Sightings

Tsavo East is famous for its “Red Elephants,” coated in the park’s red soil. Other wildlife includes Dik-Dik, Lesser Kudu, Gerenuk, and Porcupine. Over 500 bird species have been recorded in the park.

The Terrain

The park is mostly flat with savanna and grasslands. Acacia trees and scattered rocky areas are common. Key features include the Yatta Plateau and Lugard Falls. Aruba Dam is a popular spot to observe abundant wildlife.

Experience

Game Drives

The most popular way to explore Tsavo East is via early morning, full-day, or late afternoon game drives. Safaris may be conducted in open vehicles provided by lodges or in enclosed 4×4 vehicles with large windows.

Guided Walking Safaris

Guided walking safaris are available along the Galana River and are conducted by qualified safari guides, offering a closer, immersive wildlife experience.