Tsavo East National Park
National Park

Tsavo East National Park

Expansive wilderness famous for red elephants and vast savannas.

Kenya
Location
13,745 km²
Geographic Size
Dry season
Best Time to Visit

About Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya's oldest and largest parks, is celebrated for its vast landscapes of open savanna, dotted with baobab and acacia trees, and is renowned for its red elephants, so-called due to the red dust they bathe in. This expansive wilderness offers visitors the chance to explore a less commercialized side of African wildl...

When to go

Excellent
Good
Fair
Jan
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Apr
May
Jun
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Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasons

July - October
Best time to go
Ideal for wildlife viewing with cooler temperatures and dry conditions.
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.
July - October
January - February
High Season
Dry weather conditions make wildlife viewing easier as animals congregate around water sources. It's also an ideal time for bird watching.
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What to do

Wildlife

Tsavo East's arid landscapes are home to vast herds of elephants that take on a red hue from the dust, alongside a rich variety of other wildlife, making it a key destination for those looking to experience the diversity of African wildlife.

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

Where to stay

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations
Tsavo East is generally safe for visitors, but it's important to observe park rules and wildlife safety guidelines. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, as well as malaria prophylaxis, are recommended for travelers to Kenya.
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
Accessible by road from Nairobi or Mombasa, the journey offers scenic views of the Kenyan landscape. Airstrips within the park accommodate chartered flights, offering a quicker, albeit more costly, option to reach the park.
Getting Around
Inside the park, travel is typically by safari vehicles. Self-drive is an option, but guided tours are recommended for the expertise and knowledge of local guides.
Visas
Following Kenya's visa policy, most foreign visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to travel, with certain countries exempt. Ensure to apply for the eTA online well in advance of your trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions