The sight of dust-red elephant wallowing, rolling and spraying each other with the midnight blue waters of palm-shaded Galana River is one of the most evocative images in Africa. This, along with the 300 kilomtere long Yatta Plateau, the longest lava flow in the world, make for an adventure unlike any other in the Tsavo East. The park forms the largest protected area in Kenya and is home to most of the larger mammals, vast herds of dust –red elephant, Rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, pods of hippo, crocodile, waterbucks, lesser Kudu, gerenuk and the prolific bird life features 500 recorded species.
Tsavo East National Park, one of the largest parks in Kenya, boasts a wide array of attractions that appeal to nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and adventure seekers. Here are some of the main attractions in Tsavo East National Park:
Galana River: The Galana River flows through Tsavo East, providing a vital water source for wildlife. Visitors can observe animals congregating along the riverbanks, especially during the dry season, when water sources are limited.
Lugard Falls: These picturesque falls, named after Frederick Lugard, a British explorer, cascade over a series of rock formations along the Galana River. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
Mudanda Rock: This massive rock formation rises out of the savannah and offers panoramic views of Tsavo East National Park. Visitors can climb to the top of Mudanda Rock and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the park’s diverse habitats.
Aruba Dam: The Aruba Dam is a man-made waterhole that attracts a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities at the dam, especially during the dry season when animals gather to drink.
Yatta Plateau: The Yatta Plateau is one of the world’s longest lava flows, stretching for over 300 kilometers (186 miles) across Tsavo East National Park. Visitors can admire the scenic views of the plateau and learn about its geological significance.
Wildlife Viewing: Tsavo East National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives and guided safari experiences to spot these iconic African animals in their natural habitat.
Birdwatching: With over 500 bird species recorded, Tsavo East National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, including raptors, waterfowl, hornbills, weavers, and many more, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Cultural Visits: Tsavo East National Park offers opportunities for cultural interactions with local communities, such as the Maasai and Kamba tribes. Visitors can learn about traditional lifestyles, customs, and crafts through cultural visits and village tours.
Here are some hotels and lodges located within or near Tsavo East National Park:
Ashnil Aruba Lodge: Situated near the Aruba Dam, Ashnil Aruba Lodge offers luxury accommodations overlooking the dam and surrounding wilderness. The lodge features spacious rooms, a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, as well as guided safari activities.
Satao Camp: Satao Camp is a luxury tented camp located within Tsavo East National Park, offering guests an authentic safari experience amidst the wilderness. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, dining facilities, and guided game drives.
Voi Wildlife Lodge: Perched atop a hill overlooking the park, Voi Wildlife Lodge offers panoramic views of Tsavo East National Park. The lodge features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, as well as guided safari activities.
Sentrim Tsavo East Camp: Situated along the banks of the Voi River, Sentrim Tsavo East Camp offers tented accommodations with modern amenities amidst the natural beauty of the park. The camp features a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, as well as guided game drives.
Manyatta Camp: Manyatta Camp offers budget-friendly tented accommodations within Tsavo East National Park, providing guests with a rustic safari experience close to nature. The camp features basic amenities and guided safari activities.
Galdessa Camp: Galdessa Camp is an exclusive luxury tented camp located along the Galana River in Tsavo East National Park. The camp offers spacious tents with private verandas overlooking the river, as well as fine dining, bush breakfasts, and guided game drives.
Ngutuni Lodge: Nestled in a private sanctuary adjacent to Tsavo East National Park, Ngutuni Lodge offers comfortable accommodations with panoramic views of the park’s wildlife-rich plains. The lodge features spacious rooms, a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, as well as guided safari activities.
Man Eaters Camp: Located near the historic site of the Man-Eaters of Tsavo, Man Eaters Camp offers tented accommodations in a secluded setting within the park. The camp features comfortable tents with modern amenities, dining facilities, and guided game drives.
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Tsavo East National Park:
Where is Tsavo East National Park located?
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