TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK – KENYA
Tsavo East National Park is a national park in Kenya with an area of 13,747 km2 (5,308 sq mi). It was established in April 1948 and covers a semi-arid area previously known as the Taru Desert. Together with the Tsavo West National Park, it forms an area of about 22,000 square kilometers. The Tsavo River flows west to east through the national park, which is located in the Taita-Taveta County of the former Coast Province.
Tsavo East National Park is generally flat, with dry plains across which the Galana River flows. Other features include the Yatta Plateau and Lugard Falls. Inside Tsavo East National Park, the Athi and Tsavo rivers converge to form the Athi-Galana-Sabaki River. Most of the park consists of semi-arid grasslands and savanna.
The Yatta Plateau, the world’s longest lava flow, runs along the western boundary of the park above the Athi-Galana-Sabaki River. Its 290 km (180 mi) length was formed by lava from Ol Donyo Sabuk Mountain.The Mudanda Rock is a 1.6 km (0.99 mi) inselberg of stratified rock that acts as a water catchment that supplies a natural dam below. It offers an excellent vantage point for the hundreds of elephants and other wildlife that come to drink during the dry season.[citation needed] Lugard Falls, named after Frederick Lugard, is a series of white water rapids on the Athi-Galana-Sabaki River. Aruba Dam was built in 1952 across the Voi River. The reservoir created by the dam attracts many animals and water birds.
Tsavo West National Park is more mountainous and wetter, with swamps, Lake Jipe and the Mzima Springs. It is known for birdlife and for its large mammals. It is also home to a black rhino sanctuary.
Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya’s largest and oldest national parks, renowned for its vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Location:
Tsavo East National Park is located in southeastern Kenya, covering an expansive area of approximately 13,747 square kilometers (5,308 square miles). It is part of the larger Tsavo Conservation Area, which also includes Tsavo West National Park.
Wildlife:
Tsavo East is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, impalas, gazelles, hartebeests, and numerous bird species. The park is known for its large elephant herds, which are some of the largest in Kenya. Additionally, Tsavo East is famous for the “red elephants” due to the dust bathing that turns their skin reddish.
Landscapes:
The park features diverse landscapes, ranging from open plains to savannah grasslands, semi-arid scrublands, riverine forests, and the scenic Galana River. The Yatta Plateau, one of the world’s longest lava flows, is another notable feature in Tsavo East. The varied terrain offers a picturesque backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography.
Attractions:
Tsavo East is known for several attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Lugard Falls, located on the Galana River, is a series of rapids and waterfalls that create a breathtaking sight. The Mudanda Rock, a large rock outcrop, provides a panoramic view of the park and serves as a watering hole for wildlife during the dry season. The Aruba Dam is another popular spot where animals congregate, offering excellent game viewing opportunities.
Bird watching:
Tsavo East is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 500 bird species recorded. From colorful kingfishers and hornbills to majestic eagles and migratory birds, the park offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities throughout the year.
Game Drives:
Game drives are the primary activity in Tsavo East National Park. The park’s extensive road network allows for excellent game viewing experiences, with opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Morning and late afternoon game drives are particularly rewarding as animals are more active during these times.
Walking Safaris:
Some lodges and camps in Tsavo East offer guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot accompanied by experienced guides. Walking safaris provide a unique and immersive experience, where you can learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and smaller wildlife that may not be easily seen during a traditional game drive.
Accommodation:
Tsavo East offers a range of accommodation options, including lodges and tented camps. These establishments provide comfortable amenities, delicious meals, and often offer stunning views of the park and its wildlife.
Accessibility:
Tsavo East is easily accessible by road from major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. The park has several entrances, and the journey time from Nairobi or Mombasa can range from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
Tsavo East National Park offers a captivating safari experience with its abundant wildlife, diverse landscapes, and natural wonders. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or a photography enthusiast, the park’s unique attractions and remarkable biodiversity make it a must-visit destination in Kenya.
FLYING PACKAGE SAFARI
A flying safari to Tsavo East National Park offers a convenient and efficient way to explore this vast wilderness and experience its remarkable wildlife. Flying allows you to save travel time and provides stunning aerial views of the landscapes. Here’s what you can expect from a flying safari to Tsavo East National Park:
Nairobi Departure:
Your journey will typically start in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. You’ll be transferred from your hotel/accommodation to the local airport – Wilson Airport, where you’ll board a light aircraft for the flight to Tsavo East National Park.
Scenic Flight:
The flight from Nairobi to Tsavo East National Park takes approximately one hour, depending on the specific airstrip and lodge/camp you are flying into. As you fly over the Kenyan landscape, you’ll enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the diverse terrain and wildlife habitats of Tsavo East.
Airstrip Transfer:
Upon landing at the designated airstrip in Tsavo East National Park, you’ll be met by your safari guide who will transfer you to your chosen lodge or camp. The transfer is typically done in a safari vehicle, allowing you to start your wildlife experience right away.
Wildlife Activities:
Tsavo East National Park offers a range of wildlife activities. Your flying safari package may include game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, guided nature walks, and bird watching excursions. These activities provide opportunities to spot the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various bird species.
Landscapes and Attractions:
Tsavo East National Park’s expansive landscapes encompass open plains, savannah grasslands, semi-arid scrublands, and riverine forests. Your safari may include visits to attractions such as Lugard Falls, Mudanda Rock, and the Aruba Dam, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery and observe wildlife in their natural habitats.
Accommodation:
Tsavo East offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury lodges and tented camps. These properties provide comfortable amenities, personalized service, and often offer scenic views of the park. Staying within the park allows you to fully immerse yourself in the wilderness and maximize your wildlife encounters.
Departure:
After enjoying your time in Tsavo East National Park, you’ll be transferred back to the airstrip for your return flight to Nairobi. From there, you can continue your journey or head home with unforgettable memories of your safari experience.
5-DAY FLYING SAFARI TO TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK
A 5-day flying safari to Tsavo East National Park offers a convenient and efficient way to explore the park’s wildlife and landscapes while minimizing travel time.
Here’s an outline of what you can expect during your flying safari:
Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo East
Depart from Wilson Airport in Nairobi on a domestic flight to Tsavo East National Park. The flight takes approximately one hour.
Upon arrival at the airstrip within or near the park, you will be met by a guide from your lodge or camp.
Transfer to your lodge or camp and enjoy a sumptuous lunch.
In the afternoon, head out for a game drive to start your wildlife encounters in Tsavo East.
Return to your lodge or camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2-4: Game Drives in Tsavo East
Spend the next three days exploring Tsavo East National Park through morning and afternoon game drives.
Your lodge or camp will organize the game drives, providing experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the park’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Discover the park’s diverse habitats, which include open plains, savannahs, bush land, and the scenic Galana River.
Look out for the “red elephants” that are known to dust themselves with the park’s vibrant soil.
Enjoy picnic lunches amidst the park’s stunning landscapes.
Return to your accommodation each evening for dinner and overnight stays.
Day 5: Tsavo East to Nairobi
After a final morning game drive and breakfast, bid farewell to Tsavo East National Park.
Transfer to the airstrip for your return flight to Nairobi.
Arrive in Nairobi and conclude your flying safari.
Additional Tips:
Pack appropriate clothing for game drives, including lightweight, breathable attire, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Don’t forget to bring your camera with a zoom lens to capture wildlife and scenic moments.
Follow your guide’s instructions and respect the park’s regulations for a safe and responsible safari experience.
A flying safari allows you to maximize your time in Tsavo East National Park, focusing on wildlife encounters and exploration. With shorter travel times, you can immerse yourself in the park’s beauty and wildlife more extensively. Enjoy your 5-day flying safari and create unforgettable memories in Tsavo East.
A 5-DAY SAFARI TO TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK
A 5-day safari to Tsavo East National Park is an excellent choice for immersing yourself in the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of one of Kenya’s largest and oldest national parks. Here’s an outline of what you can expect during your safari:
Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo East
Depart from Nairobi in the morning and travel by road to Tsavo East National Park, which is approximately a 4 to 5-hour drive.
Arrive at your lodge or camp within the park and settle in.
After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive to start exploring the park’s wildlife. Keep an eye out for elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at your lodge or camp.
Day 2-4: Game Drives in Tsavo East
Spend the next three days exploring Tsavo East National Park through morning and afternoon game drives.
The park offers a vast expanse of wilderness, diverse ecosystems, and a wide range of wildlife. You may encounter herds of elephants bathing in the red-hued dust, predators on the prowl, and numerous bird species.
Visit the Galana River, which attracts wildlife and offers a scenic setting for wildlife observation and photography.
Take breaks for picnic lunches at designated spots within the park, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stays.
Day 5: Tsavo East to Nairobi
Enjoy a final morning game drive in Tsavo East, making the most of your remaining time in the park.
Afterward, depart from Tsavo East and travel back to Nairobi.
Arrive in Nairobi by early evening, marking the end of your safari.
Additional Tips:
Carry appropriate clothing for game drives, including lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Stay hydrated and bring drinking water along for the game drives.
Follow your guide’s instructions and respect the park’s regulations to ensure a safe and responsible safari experience.
Tsavo East National Park is known for its vast open plains, dramatic scenery, and diverse wildlife. It offers an opportunity to witness some of Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy your 5-day safari, embracing the beauty of Tsavo East and creating unforgettable memories.
10-DAY SAFARI AND BEACH HOLIDAY TO TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK
A 10-day safari and beach holiday to Tsavo East National Park is an incredible adventure! Tsavo East is one of the largest and oldest national parks in Kenya, renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Here’s a suggested itinerary for your trip:
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where you will be greeted by a guide and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day resting and acclimatizing to the new environment.
Day 2: Nairobi to Tsavo East National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Tsavo East National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge or camp and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, head out for your first game drive in the park, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and various bird species. Return to your lodge or camp accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
Days 3-7: Tsavo East National Park Safari
Over the next five days, immerse yourself in the wildlife wonders of Tsavo East National Park. Start your mornings with early game drives when the animals are most active. Explore different regions of the park, such as the Aruba Dam and the Galana River, which attract a large concentration of wildlife. Your days will be filled with thrilling game drives, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for photography. Enjoy packed lunches in the bush, surrounded by nature. Return to your lodge or camp in the evenings for dinner and relaxation.
Day 8: Tsavo East to Diani Beach
After breakfast, bid farewell to Tsavo East and embark on a scenic drive to Diani Beach, located on the southern coast of Kenya. Check into your beachfront resort and spend the afternoon at leisure. Relax on the white sandy beaches, take a dip in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, or indulge in various water sports activities.
Days 9-10: Relaxation at Diani Beach
These two days are dedicated to pure relaxation and enjoyment at Diani Beach. You can choose to spend your time lounging on the beach, exploring the vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling or scuba diving, taking a boat trip to spot dolphins, or even going on a deep-sea fishing excursion. Diani Beach offers a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops, allowing you to savor delicious cuisine and explore local culture. Take this opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate before your journey back home.
Day 11: Departure
After breakfast, check out of your resort and transfer to the airport for your departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your safari and beach holiday in Tsavo East National Park.
Remember, this is just a suggested itinerary, and you can customize it based on your preferences and the available accommodations. Enjoy your safari and beach holiday in Tsavo East National Park!
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