Tsavo, Kenya
Tsavo is one of the largest national parks in Kenya, comprising Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park. Together, these parks cover an expansive area of over 22,000 square kilometers, making Tsavo a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The region is known for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich history. Here’s a guide to some of the top places to visit in Tsavo:
1. Tsavo East National Park
Tsavo East National Park is renowned for its vast savannahs, red-earth landscapes, and abundant wildlife. The park is famous for its large herds of “red elephants,” which get their distinctive color from rolling in the red volcanic soil. Other wildlife includes lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and zebras. Visitors can enjoy game drives, bird watching, and exploring the park’s stunning landscapes.
- Key Attractions: Red elephants, vast savannahs.
- Activities: Game drives, bird watching.
- Location: Eastern part of Tsavo.
2. Tsavo West National Park
Tsavo West National Park is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including volcanic hills, lava flows, and scenic waterfalls. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, and a rich birdlife. Key attractions include Mzima Springs, where visitors can see hippos and crocodiles through an underwater viewing chamber, and the Shetani Lava Flow, a black lava expanse created by volcanic activity.
- Key Attractions: Volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife.
- Activities: Game drives, hiking.
- Location: Western part of Tsavo.
3. Mzima Springs
Mzima Springs is one of the most famous attractions in Tsavo West National Park. The crystal-clear springs produce over 250 million liters of water daily and are a vital water source for the park’s wildlife. Visitors can view hippos, crocodiles, and various fish species through an underwater viewing chamber. The surrounding area is lush and green, offering a stark contrast to the park’s dry landscapes.
- Key Attractions: Crystal-clear springs, underwater viewing chamber.
- Activities: Wildlife viewing, nature walks.
- Location: Tsavo West National Park.
4. Shetani Lava Flow
The Shetani Lava Flow is a fascinating geological feature in Tsavo West National Park. The vast expanse of black lava was formed by volcanic eruptions hundreds of years ago. The name “Shetani” means “devil” in Swahili, as the locals believed the lava flow was the work of evil spirits. Visitors can explore the rugged landscape, learn about the area’s volcanic history, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding region.
- Key Attractions: Black lava flow, volcanic history.
- Activities: Exploration, photography.
- Location: Tsavo West National Park.
5. Lugard Falls
Lugard Falls is a series of whitewater rapids and cascades located along the Galana River in Tsavo East National Park. The falls are named after Frederick Lugard, a British explorer and colonial administrator. The unique rock formations and the powerful flow of water make the falls a striking sight. Visitors can take guided walks along the riverbank, enjoy the scenic views, and observe the diverse birdlife.
- Key Attractions: Whitewater rapids, scenic views.
- Activities: Nature walks, bird watching.
- Location: Tsavo East National Park.
6. Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary
The Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary is a protected area within Tsavo West National Park dedicated to the conservation of black rhinos. The sanctuary was established to protect the endangered species from poaching. Visitors can take guided tours to spot rhinos in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect them. The sanctuary also provides a safe haven for other wildlife species.
- Key Attractions: Black rhinos, conservation efforts.
- Activities: Rhino tracking, guided tours.
- Location: Tsavo West National Park.
7. Aruba Dam
Aruba Dam is an artificial dam located in Tsavo East National Park. The dam creates a large reservoir that attracts a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Visitors can spot elephants, lions, zebras, and various bird species around the dam. The area offers excellent opportunities for game viewing and photography, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon.
- Key Attractions: Wildlife viewing, water reservoir.
- Activities: Game drives, photography.
- Location: Tsavo East National Park.
8. Chaimu Crater
Chaimu Crater is a volcanic cone located in Tsavo West National Park. The crater is composed of black volcanic rock, creating a striking landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the crater for panoramic views of the surrounding plains and the nearby Chyulu Hills. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey and small mammals.
- Key Attractions: Volcanic cone, panoramic views.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing.
- Location: Tsavo West National Park.
9. Poacher’s Lookout
Poacher’s Lookout is a viewpoint in Tsavo West National Park that offers stunning views of the park’s diverse landscapes. The lookout was once used by park rangers to monitor and combat poaching activities. Today, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding plains, hills, and wildlife. The viewpoint is a great spot for photography and appreciating the park’s natural beauty.
- Key Attractions: Scenic views, historical significance.
- Activities: Sightseeing, photography.
- Location: Tsavo West National Park.
10. Galana River
The Galana River, also known as the Athi-Galana-Sabaki River, flows through Tsavo East National Park and is one of the major rivers in Kenya. The river provides a lifeline for the park’s wildlife and is a key feature of the landscape. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and bird watching along the river. The Galana River is also a great spot for observing crocodiles and hippos.
- Key Attractions: Major river, diverse wildlife.
- Activities: Boat rides, bird watching.
- Location: Tsavo East National Park.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tsavo East National Park | Vast park with red elephants and savannah landscapes | Red elephants, game drives | Eastern Tsavo |
| Tsavo West National Park | Diverse landscapes with volcanic features | Volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife | Western Tsavo |
| Mzima Springs | Crystal-clear springs with underwater viewing chamber | Hippos, underwater viewing | Tsavo West National Park |
| Shetani Lava Flow | Expansive black lava flow from volcanic activity | Black lava flow, volcanic history | Tsavo West National Park |
| Lugard Falls | Whitewater rapids along the Galana River | Scenic views, whitewater rapids | Tsavo East National Park |
| Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary | Protected area for black rhinos | Rhino conservation, guided tours | Tsavo West National Park |
| Aruba Dam | Artificial dam attracting wildlife | Wildlife viewing, photography | Tsavo East National Park |
| Chaimu Crater | Volcanic cone with panoramic views | Hiking, panoramic views | Tsavo West National Park |
| Poacher’s Lookout | Viewpoint with scenic views of Tsavo | Scenic views, historical significance | Tsavo West National Park |
| Galana River | Major river providing water for wildlife | Boat rides, bird watching | Tsavo East National Park |
How to Reach Tsavo
By Air
Tsavo has several airstrips, including the Voi, Kilaguni, and Finch Hattons airstrips, which offer charter flights to and from Nairobi and other major cities in Kenya. These airstrips are conveniently located near the parks’ main entrances.
By Road
Tsavo is accessible by road from major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. The Nairobi-Mombasa highway passes through the park, making it easy to reach by car or bus. The journey from Nairobi to Tsavo takes approximately 4 to 5 hours by car.
By Rail
The Madaraka Express, part of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), connects Nairobi to Mombasa with stops at Voi, which is close to Tsavo East National Park. From Voi, visitors can access the park by road.
Best Time to Visit Tsavo
The best time to visit Tsavo is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. During these periods, the weather is mild, and wildlife viewing is at its best as animals gather around water sources.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: While visiting Tsavo, consider trying local Kenyan dishes such as nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali (maize porridge), and sukuma wiki (collard greens) at lodges and camps within the park.
- Cultural Insights: Tsavo is home to the Taita and Kamba communities, who have a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about their customs and traditions during their stay.
- Safety Tips: While Tsavo is generally safe for tourists, it is essential to follow park rules, stay within designated areas, and avoid approaching wildlife. Always travel with a guide and ensure you have plenty of water and supplies.
Conclusion
Tsavo is a captivating destination offering a blend of diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique geological features. Whether you’re exploring the vast savannahs of Tsavo East, marveling at the volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West, or enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Mzima Springs, Tsavo promises an unforgettable adventure in Kenya’s wilderness.
