Tsavo East

Vast savannahs, red soil, and massive elephant herds: Tsavo East National Park is the wild heart of Kenya. Here, you’ll experience authentic safari adventures in a landscape straight out of African dreams.

Red elephant in Tsavo East
Leopard sitting on the ground
Lions in Tsavo East National Park
Landscape
Elephant herd in Tsavo East National Park
Lion at dusk
Zebras in Tsavo East
Red Soil & Galana River Red Soil & Galana River
Year-round Year-round
Midrange price level Midrange price level
1 - 2 Days 1 - 2 Days

Tsavo East National Park is located in southeastern Kenya and, at over 13,700 square kilometers, is one of the largest national parks in the country. Tsavo East is famous for its wide open plains, distinctive red soil, and its huge elephant herds, which often appear reddish as they cover themselves in dust.

Characteristic of the park are its seemingly endless savannahs, thorn bush landscapes, rivers like the Galana River, and striking natural features like the Lugard Falls and the impressive Yatta Plateau, the longest lava flow in Africa. The raw beauty and sense of boundless space make Tsavo East a paradise for safari enthusiasts.

Thanks to its open landscapes, you have excellent chances of spotting large herds and predators here. Especially during the dry season, many animals gather at the remaining water sources, ensuring unforgettable safari moments.

animals-tsavo-east

Animals in Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East is known for its vast elephant herds, which love to wallow in the red soil. Besides elephants, you’ll find lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, kudus, and many species of gazelles.

Especially along the banks of the Galana River, you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse birdlife. Over 500 bird species have been recorded in the park, including ostriches, eagles, kingfishers, and secretary birds.

The vast, open landscape makes wildlife sightings particularly impressive — whether majestic elephants in the dust or lions resting beneath acacia trees.

Highlights

  • 01

    Red Soil

    Tsavo East is famous for its red soil. Here, elephants often cover themselves in red dust, giving them a unique coloration — an unmistakable hallmark of the park.

  • 02

    Galana River & Lugard Falls

    The Galana River winds like a lifeline through the park. Especially impressive are the Lugard Falls, where the water carves its way dramatically through rocks. Here, you can see hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of birdlife.

  • 03

    Yatta Plateau

    In Tsavo East lies the Yatta Plateau, the longest solidified lava flow in Africa. Stretching over 300 kilometers, it’s a geological wonder offering spectacular views.

  • 04

    Endless Savannahs

    Tsavo East conveys a sense of boundless freedom. The open plains and the often blazing sun create a wild, raw atmosphere.

Activities

Game Drive

Explore the vast plains and discover elephants and other wildlife.

Game drive in Tsavo East National Park

Birdwatching

With over 500 species, Tsavo East is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts.

Marabou in Tsavo East

Getting There

By Car

By Car

From Nairobi, you can reach Tsavo East National Park in about 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, the park is conveniently located for journeys from Mombasa and is perfect for combining a safari with the coast.

By Plane

By Plane

There are several airstrips within the park. Flights from Nairobi or Mombasa take around 1 to 1.5 hours. From there, you’re usually taken directly to your lodge.

Are you ready for your adventure?

Whether you want to see red elephants, experience spectacular waterfalls, or enjoy the endless expanse of the savannah — Tsavo East awaits with your authentic safari experience!

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