Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks, covering over 13,700 square kilometres. Located between Nairobi and Mombasa, it is renowned for its vast open plains, dramatic landscapes, and incredible wildlife. The park is especially famous for its iconic red elephants, which coat themselves in the park’s distinctive red volcanic soil.

Whether you’re travelling from Nairobi or combining your safari with a beach holiday in Mombasa or Diani, Tsavo East offers an unforgettable African wilderness experience.

Why Visit Tsavo East National Park?

Tsavo East is perfect for travellers seeking wide-open landscapes, fewer crowds, and outstanding wildlife viewing. It provides a true sense of Africa’s untamed wilderness.

Wildlife in Tsavo East

The park is home to:

● Red elephants

● Lions

● Leopards

● Buffaloes

● Black rhinos (in protected areas)

● Giraffes

● Zebras

● Cheetahs

● Hyenas

● Hippos

● Crocodiles

● Elands

● Impalas

● Lesser kudus

● Warthogs

More than 500 bird species have been recorded, making Tsavo East an excellent destination for birdwatchers.

Top Attractions

Red Elephants

Tsavo East’s elephants are famous for their reddish appearance, caused by dusting themselves with the park’s rich red soil.

Lugard Falls

A series of scenic rapids and rock formations on the Galana River, offering spectacular views and photography opportunities.

Galana River

One of the park’s main water sources, attracting elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and many other animals.

Aruba Dam

A popular wildlife viewing area where many animals gather to drink, especially during the dry season.

Best Time to Visit

June–October: Best for game viewing during the dry season.

January–March: Warm weather and excellent wildlife sightings.

April–May: Green landscapes with fewer visitors.

● Morning and afternoon game drives

● Wildlife photography

● Birdwatching

● Scenic viewing at Lugard Falls

Visit Aruba Dam

Accommodation

Choose from:

● Luxury safari lodges

■ Tented camps

■ Mid-range lodges

■ Budget camps

Esther Luxe Safaris can recommend accommodation based on your budget and travel preferences.

How to Get There

Tsavo East National Park is approximately 330 km from Nairobi and can also be accessed easily from Mombasa, making it an ideal safari destination for travellers combining wildlife with a Kenyan coast holiday.

Why Choose Esther Luxe Safaris?

■ Experienced local safari guides

■ Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles

■ Tailor-made safari itineraries

■ Private, family, and group safaris

■ Competitive pricing

■ 24/7 customer support

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Tsavo elephants red?

They roll and dust themselves in the park’s red volcanic soil, giving them their famous reddish colour.

How many days should I spend in Tsavo East?

Two to three days is ideal for exploring the park and enjoying multiple game drives.

Experience Kenya’s wild landscapes and incredible wildlife with Esther Luxe Safaris. From the famous red elephants to breathtaking scenery and unforgettable game drives, Tsavo East promises a safari adventure you’ll always remember.

Tsavo East National Park