Tsavo East National Park
Tsavo East: Land of the Red Elephants
Tsavo East National Park is part of Tsavo, one of the largest protected areas in Africa. Wide, open plains stretch to the horizon, and elephants here are famous for their red colour, which comes from dusting themselves with the park’s red soil.
Because it lies between Nairobi and Mombasa, Tsavo East is easy to combine with a beach holiday on the Kenyan coast.
Things to Do in Tsavo East
Game drives along the Galana River reveal elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, fringe-eared oryx and lesser kudu. The river’s Lugard Falls rush through water-carved rock, while Aruba Dam attracts animals in the dry season. The Yatta Plateau, one of the world’s longest lava flows, runs along the park’s edge. Tsavo is also known for the “man-eaters of Tsavo”, the lions that stalked railway workers in 1898.
Getting There
Tsavo East is about two to three hours from Mombasa. From Nairobi, the train to Voi is a scenic way to arrive. It pairs naturally with Tsavo West and Amboseli.
Explore our Kenya safaris or ask us for a tailor-made itinerary.
Tsavo East is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and a diverse range of antelope species, along with numerous bird species such as the elegant Kori bustard and the striking Somali ostrich. Visitors to Tsavo East National Park can engage in several activities that highlight the park’s unique features and wildlife. Game drives offer opportunities to explore the park’s expansive landscapes and encounter its diverse fauna, with chances to observe the famous “Man-Eaters of Tsavo”—a historical reference to a pair of maneless lions that once terrorized the region.
The park’s natural wonders include the Mzima Springs, a series of freshwater springs that create lush oases and provide vital water sources for wildlife, and the Yatta Plateau, one of the longest lava flows in the world. For a more immersive experience, visitors can embark on guided walking safaris to explore the park’s flora and smaller wildlife up close.
Tsavo East also offers picnic sites and scenic viewpoints where guests can relax and take in the park’s rugged beauty. As part of Kenya’s national parks, Tsavo East exemplifies the country’s diverse natural landscapes and commitment to wildlife conservation, providing a captivating safari experience in a truly unique setting.
Where to Stay near Tsavo East
Every Traford safari comes in three styles: Signature (luxury), Classic (mid-range) and Adventurer (budget). These are the options we recommend most often; final choices depend on your dates and availability.
- Classic: Voi Safari Lodge, overlooking a busy waterhole, and Ashnil Aruba Lodge near Aruba Dam.
- Adventurer: budget tented camps near the Voi gate.
