Tsavo West National Park
National Park

Tsavo West National Park

A rugged wilderness home to diverse African wildlife and landscapes.

Kenya
Location
9,065 km²
Geographic Size
Dry season
Best Time to Visit

About Tsavo West National Park

Tsavo West National Park, part of Kenya's vast Tsavo ecosystem, spans a vast area of rugged, volcanic landscape, offering a more diverse array of environments than its eastern counterpart. Known for its magnificent scenery, including the Mzima Springs, Shetani Lava Flow, and the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, the park is a haven for a wide range of wildli...

When to go

Excellent
Good
Fair
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasons

July - October
Best time to go
Ideal for wildlife viewing with cooler temperatures and dry conditions.
July - October
December - February
High Season
Dry weather makes wildlife easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. It's also the best time for bird watching.
March - June
Low Season
The rainy season can make some roads impassable, but the park is less crowded, and the landscape is lush and green.
November - February
Shoulder Season
Brief rains bring fresh grass, attracting herbivores and, subsequently, predators. It's a good time for those seeking solitude and birdwatching opportunities.
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What to do

Wildlife

Tsavo West National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems hosting a wide range of wildlife, including vast elephant herds, lions, leopards, and the critically endangered black rhino, offering a quintessential Kenyan safari experience.

Lion

Common

Elephant

Common

Black Rhino

Rare

Cheetah

Occasional

Hippo

Common

Hyena

Common

Leopard

Occasional

Giraffe

Common

Zebra

Common

Gazelle

Common

Buffalo

Common

Wildebeest

Common

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations
Tsavo West is generally safe for visitors, but it's important to follow park rules and guidelines for wildlife safety. Standard vaccinations for travel to Kenya, including Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, are recommended, along with malaria prophylaxis.
For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :
CDC Travelers' Health
CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations
Getting There
The park is accessible by road from Nairobi or Mombasa, with entrances at Tsavo, Mtito Andei, and Taveta. Charter flights to airstrips within the park are also available for those looking to avoid long drives.
Getting Around
Inside the park, travel is primarily by safari vehicles. Many lodges and camps offer guided tours, but visitors can also drive their own 4x4 vehicles.
Visas
Following Kenya's new visa policy, most foreign visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travel, except for citizens from exempted countries. It's essential to apply for the eTA in advance online and ensure compliance with entry requirements, including vaccinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions