Tsavo National Park Safaris

Your Guide to Kenya's Wildlife Conservation Safari Destination

Whether you’re driving or taking a train from Nairobi to Mombasa, your journey will take you through Tsavo National Park, Kenya’s largest and one of its most iconic wildlife conservation areas. Famed for its vast landscapes and thriving lion population, Tsavo offers an unforgettable safari experience for families, couples, and organized groups. Beyond breathtaking game drives, visitors can witness the legendary Big Five, explore the crystal-clear Mzima Springs, and delve into the gripping history of the infamous Tsavo man-eaters. With over 500 bird species, including the striking lilac-breasted roller, the park is also a haven for birdwatchers.

Tsavo National Park Safari Packages

About The Tsavo National Park

Kenya's Largest Wilderness Paradise

Tsavo National Park, established in 1948, is Kenya’s largest national park, sprawling across over 20,800 square kilometers in the southeastern part of the country. It’s split into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, providing a variety of habitats from the expansive plains of Tsavo East to the rugged, scenic landscapes of Tsavo West. The park is famous for its red soil, creating a vivid contrast against its sparse vegetation, which includes acacia woodlands and the long Yatta Plateau, a unique geological feature.

The park is renowned for its substantial lion population, including the infamous man-eaters of Tsavo, and holds one of the largest herds of African elephants, some with notably large tusks. Beyond these, Tsavo supports a rich biodiversity with animals like leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and an array of birds, particularly around the lush Mzima Springs.

Park Location

Tsavo National Park is situated roughly 200 miles (320 kilometers) southeast of Nairobi, stretching across Taita Taveta, Kitui, and Makueni Counties in Kenya. The park is divided into two sections – Tsavo East and Tsavo West – separated by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and railway line.

Getting There by Road:

To reach Tsavo National Park from Nairobi, take the Mombasa Road (A109) southeast. For Tsavo West, you can enter through Mtito Andei Gate, located approximately 233km from Nairobi. For Tsavo East, continue further along Mombasa Road to reach either Voi Gate or Bachuma Gate. The journey from Nairobi to Mtito Andei Gate typically takes 4-5 hours, while reaching Voi Gate takes about 5-6 hours by car.

Getting There by Air:

Several airlines operate daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to various airstrips within Tsavo National Park. The main airstrips include Voi, Mtito Andei, and Finch Hattons in Tsavo West, and Satao and Sala in Tsavo East. Flight time is approximately 1 hour. Charter flights can also be arranged.

tsavo national park safaris price

Tsavo National Park Safari Fees

What's the cost of Tsavo National Park Safari?

Tsavo National Park Entry Fee

Adults: Non-residents pay $52 per day, while Kenyans pay KSH 515

Children: Non-residents pay $26 per day, while Kenyans pay KSH 215

*NB: Fees vary due to season of the year. Extra fees for vehicle entry, aircraft landing, ranger escort and camping may apply where applicable.

Entrance Fee payment is made to E-citizen via MPesa, Visa Card, RTGS, EFT.

Tsavo National Park Accommodation Costs

Luxury Lodges and Camps: $300-$800+ per person per night (e.g., Finch Hattons Luxury Camp, Salt Lick Safari Lodge, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge

Mid-Range Lodges: $100-$250 per person per night (e.g., Voi Wildlife Lodge, Ngulia Safari Lodge)

Budget Campsites: $30-$80 per person per night (e.g., KWS Public Campsites, Ndolwa Camp)

Tsavo National Park Car Rental Costs

By Road: Private transfers or self-drive in a 4×4 can cost $80-$300, depending on vehicle type and group size.

By Air: Return flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Tsavo’s airstrips range from $150-$300 per person

Tsavo National Park Activities Costs

Game Drives: Often included in accommodation costs.

Cave and Archaeological Site Tours: $30-$50 per person (including Shetani Lava Flows and caves)

Mzima Springs Visit: $20-$30 per person (to view hippos and crocodiles from underwater observatory)

Other Costs

Meals and drinks (if not included in your package).

Tips for guides and staff ($10–$20 per day is typical).

For a mid-range 3-day trip, you might spend $700–$1,500 per person, including park fees, accommodation, transport, and some activities. Luxury options can exceed $5,000.

Tsavo National Park Activities

Some Popular Tsavo National Park Safari Activities

Game Drives

Explore the vast wilderness of Tsavo on guided game drives, available in the morning, afternoon, or as full-day excursions. These drives offer opportunities to spot diverse wildlife including the park’s famous red elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and critically endangered black rhinos.

Walking Safaris

Experience guided walking safaris in designated areas, allowing you to discover the smaller details of the ecosystem, from tracking animals to learning about medicinal plants and the volcanic landscape that shapes Tsavo’s unique environment.

Cultural Visits

Engage with local communities around Tsavo, including the Taita and Wakamba people, to learn about their traditions, cultural practices, and their role in conservation efforts within the region.

Lava Flow and Geological Tours

Explore Tsavo’s unique volcanic features, including the Shetani Lava Flow and various volcanic formations. Learn about the geological history that shaped this dramatic landscape and created the park’s distinctive red soil.

Bird Watching

Tsavo is a bird watcher’s paradise with over 500 recorded bird species, including the largest population of ostriches in Kenya, along with golden-breasted starlings, golden pipits, and various species of hornbills.

Night Game Drives

Venture into the wilderness after dark in selected areas of the park to observe nocturnal creatures like genets, civets, bush babies, and nightjars, as well as predators like lions and leopards on their nocturnal hunts.

Visit to Mzima Springs

Discover the crystal-clear waters of Mzima Springs, where underwater viewing chambers allow you to observe hippos, crocodiles, and various fish species in their natural habitat.

Historical Sites and World War I Battlefields

Visit historical sites including the Taita Hills World War I battlefields and the infamous “Man-Eaters of Tsavo” bridge site, where two notorious lions halted the construction of the Kenya-Uganda railway in 1898.

Photography Tours

Join specialized photography tours focusing on capturing Tsavo’s unique landscapes, including its iconic red elephants, vast savannahs, the Galana River, and the dramatic backdrop of the Chyulu Hills.

When to visit and what to carry

when can i visit tsavo national park

The best time to visit the Tsavo National Park

Best Time: June to October (Dry season with excellent wildlife viewing)

Budget-Friendly Time: March to May (Green season with lush landscapes and lower rates)

Special Moments: November to December (Short rains bring migrant birds and newborn animals)

What to carry

Clothing: Light, breathable clothes in neutral colors for the hot climate, long-sleeved options for sun protection, and warmer layers for cool mornings and evenings.

Shoes: Sturdy, closed walking shoes for nature walks and climbing volcanic formations, plus comfortable sandals for lodge wear.

Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hat, high SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses – essential in Tsavo’s intense heat and strong sun exposure.

Camera and Binoculars: For capturing the unique red elephants and vast landscapes. A zoom lens is particularly useful for distant wildlife photography.

Travel Documents: Passport, park entry tickets, and travel insurance details.

Hydration: Large reusable water bottles and electrolyte supplements – Tsavo’s heat can be intense, making proper hydration crucial.

Medications: Personal prescriptions, basic first aid supplies, and antimalarial medication as advised by your healthcare provider.

Power Bank and Adapters: For charging devices, especially important during long game drives. Kenya uses the British-style three-pin socket

The Tsavo National Park is perfect for day trips and multi-day safaris

Tsavo National Park, split into East and West, offers incredible opportunities for both quick visits and extended safari adventures. With its vast landscapes spanning over 22,000 square kilometers, visitors can experience everything from short game drives to comprehensive multi-day expeditions.

Tsavo Solo safaris:

Perfect for independent travelers seeking solitude and adventure in Kenya’s largest national park.

Tsavo Couple (Honeymoon) safaris:

A romantic escape offering intimate experiences against the backdrop of Tsavo’s dramatic landscapes.

Tsavo Family Safaris:

An educational and exciting adventure suitable for all ages, combining wildlife viewing with visits to historical sites like the World War I battlefields and the legendary “Man-Eaters of Tsavo

Tsavo Corporate Safaris:

Team-building experiences that utilize the park’s unique features, from problem-solving activities in nature to conference facilities at premium lodges.

Tsavo Friends Safaris:

Group adventures that make the most of Tsavo’s varied attractions, from shared game drives and hiking experiences to group accommodations in scenic locations.

What you can see

Tsavo National Park hosts an incredible diversity of wildlife and landscapes unique to this region

The Big Five: Famous red elephants covered in ochre dust, lions,elusive leopards, large herds of buffalo, and critically endangered black rhinos.

Unique Landscapes: Vast semi-arid wilderness, distinctive red earth, the dramatic Yatta Plateau (world’s longest lava flow), Lugard Falls, and the crystal-clear Mzima Springs.

Predators in Action: Lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the park’s numerous hyenas hunting across the savannah.

Rare Species: Lesser kudu, fringe-eared oryx, gerenuk (giraffe-necked antelope), Hirola (Hunter’s hartebeest), and the endemic Peter’s gazelle.

Water Dwellers: Hippos and crocodiles visible from underwater viewing chambers at Mzima Springs, plus various fish species in crystal-clear waters.

Diverse Wildlife: Large populations of zebras, giraffes, waterbuck, dik-dik, and various antelope species adapted to the semi-arid environment.

Historical Sites: World War I battlefields, the infamous “Man-Eaters of Tsavo” railway bridge site, and ancient archaeological sites.

Geological Wonders: Shetani Lava Flow, Mudanda Rock, Chyulu Hills, and views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.

"In Tsavo, dawn breaks like nature's masterpiece - golden light illuminating endless wilderness where red elephants roam ancient paths. Here, beneath vast African skies, every moment tells a story of survival, resilience, and untamed beauty. Lions prowl freely, springs burst from volcanic earth, and historic tales of man-eaters echo across this remarkable land."

Accommodation in the Tsavo National Park

Here are some of Tsavo National Park multiple accommodation facilities

Ultra-luxury Lodges ($800+ per night)
  • Finch Hattons Luxury Camp
  • Galdessa Private Retreat
  • Kipalo Hills
  • Salt Lick Safari Lodge
  • Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge
Luxury Lodges ($400-800 per night)
  • Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge
  • Ashnil Aruba Lodge
  • Voi Wildlife Lodge
  • Lions Bluff Lodge
  • Severin Safari Camp
  • Ngulia Safari Lodge
  • Satao Camp
  • Patterson’s Safari Camp
  • Zomeni Lion Hill Lodge
Mid-range Lodges ($150-400 per night)
  • Voi Safari Lodge
  • Ndololo Camp
  • Sagala Lodge
  • Lumo Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Taita Hills Safari Resort
  • Kulalu Camp
  • Man-Eaters Camp
  • Rhino Valley Lodge
Budget-friendly Options (Under $150 Per Night)
  • Tsavo Buffalo Camp
  • Swara Camp
  • Kivuko Camp
  • Leopard Lodge
  • Ngulia Bandas
  • KTDC Ngulia Lodge
  • Tsavo Heritage Camp
Kenya Wildlife Service Accommodation
  • KWS Self-catering Bandas
  • KWS Public Campsites
  • KWS Special Campsites
Private Campsites
  • Ndololo Special Campsite
  • Galana River Special Campsite
  • Chyulu Special Campsite
  • Kiboko Special Campsite
Community-owned Lodges
  • Taita Community Lodges
  • Kasigau Cultural Bandas
  • Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary

Key features that typically differentiate the categories:

  • Ultra-luxury: Private plunge pools, personal butlers, helicopter transfers available
  • Luxury: High-end amenities, excellent guiding, gourmet dining
  • Mid-range: Comfortable accommodation with good amenities and reliable service
  • Budget-friendly: Basic but comfortable amenities, shared game drives
  • Mobile camping: Various levels of comfort, more adventurous experience
  • Conservancy lodges: More exclusive game viewing, fewer vehicles
  • Community-owned: More authentic cultural experiences, direct community benefits
tsavo national park hotels

Book This Package

How many people shall be in the trip?

Reach out:

For enquiries or bookings, write to info@baecation.co.ke. We’ll revert within 20 minutes during business hours.

Tsavo National Park FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About the Tsavo National Park

Tsavo is located in southeastern Kenya, divided into East and West by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and railway. It’s Kenya’s largest national park, covering about 4% of the country’s total area.

The best time is during the dry seasons (June to October and January to February) when wildlife congregates around water sources and visibility is excellent.

Tsavo’s elephants are famous for their reddish appearance, caused by rolling in the park’s distinctive red oxide soil.

Yes, most travelers to Kenya require a tourist visa. You can obtain an eVisa online before your trip, or a visa upon arrival, depending on your nationality.

Yes, Tsavo is a well-managed national park with established safety protocols and experienced guides.

Tsavo National Park is Kenya’s largest protected area, home to diverse wildlife, unique geological features, and historical sites including World War I battlefields.

Entry fees to Tsavo vary depending on the season and park entry point. As of recent rates, Adult entry fees are $52 per day for non-residents and KSH 515 for Kenyan citizens.

Yes, children can go on safaris in Tsavo.Many lodges offer family-friendly accommodations and activities.

Basic mobile coverage exists near lodges and main areas, but can be spotty in remote locations.

Yes, Tsavo is in a malaria zone. Preventive medication and insect protection are recommended.

3-4 days minimum is recommended to explore both Tsavo East and West.

In Tsavo, you can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, visits to Mzima Springs, rock climbing at Kichwa Tembo, cultural visits to local communities, and birdwatching. Cave exploration at Shetani Caves and visiting the World War I battlefields are also popular.

In Tsavo, you’ll find various accommodation options including luxury lodges, tented camps, and budget-friendly hotels. Notable properties include Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge, and Voi Wildlife Lodge.

In Tsavo, you can stay at renowned properties like Finch Hattons Luxury Camp, Salt Lick Safari Lodge, Kilaguni Serena Lodge, and Voi Safari Lodge. Each offers unique views and experiences of the park.

In Tsavo, you can arrive by road (approximately 4-5 hours from Nairobi), by train on the SGR, or by scheduled flights to various airstrips within the park.

In Tsavo, you can spot the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos), plus giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and over 500 bird species. The park is especially famous for its red elephants and large lion prides.

In Tsavo, first-time safari visitors are well-catered for with professional guides, established lodges, and abundant wildlife. The park offers both luxury and budget options to suit different preferences.

In Tsavo, essential items include neutral-colored clothing, sunscreen, hat, binoculars, camera, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and light jackets for early morning game drives.

In Tsavo, self-driving is permitted but a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. Maps are available at the park gates, and it’s advisable to inform rangers of your planned route. You can also hire a vehicle and drive yourself from our sister company, Bamm Tours.

In Tsavo, the climate is generally hot and semi-arid. Daytime temperatures average 27-31°C (80-88°F), while nights are cooler. The park experiences two rainy seasons: March-May and November-December.

In Tsavo, you’re approximately 240km from Nairobi, which takes about 4-5 hours by road or 45 minutes by air to reach the various airstrips within the park.

In Tsavo, the best wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons (June to October and January to February) when animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense.

In Tsavo, you can find affordable accommodations like public campsites, budget lodges, and self-catering bandas. Some popular options include Ndolwa House and Ngulia Safari Lodge.

In Tsavo, visitors should have standard vaccinations including Yellow Fever (required), Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and ensure their routine vaccinations are up to date.

In Tsavo, wear neutral colors (avoid bright colors and black), light layers, long sleeves and pants, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat for sun protection.

In Tsavo, you can visit local communities, experience traditional dances, learn about Taita and Kamba cultures, and visit historical sites like the World War I battlefields.

In Tsavo, night drives reveal nocturnal animals like bush babies, genets, civets, leopards, and aardwolves. These drives are only permitted in certain areas with authorized guides.

In Tsavo, hot air balloon safaris are not commonly offered, unlike in Masai Mara. However, scenic flights can be arranged for aerial views of the park.

In Tsavo, all Big Five animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) are present, though rhinos are rare and mainly found in protected sanctuaries within the park.

Tsavo National Park, established in 1948, is Kenya’s largest national park, sprawling across over 20,800 square kilometers in the southeastern part of the country. It’s split into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, providing a variety of habitats from the expansive plains of Tsavo East to the rugged, scenic landscapes of Tsavo West. The park is famous for its red soil, creating a vivid contrast against its sparse vegetation, which includes acacia woodlands and the long Yatta Plateau, a unique geological feature.

The park is renowned for its substantial lion population, including the infamous man-eaters of Tsavo, and holds one of the largest herds of African elephants, some with notably large tusks. Beyond these, Tsavo supports a rich biodiversity with animals like leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and an array of birds, particularly around the lush Mzima Springs.

In Tsavo, the main languages are Swahili and English, while local communities speak Taita and Kamba. Most safari guides and lodge staff are fluent in English.

In Tsavo, early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Professional guides know the best spots and animal patterns.

In Tsavo, you can visit during rainy seasons (March-May and November-December), but some roads may be impassable and wildlife harder to spot due to thick vegetation.

In Tsavo, the landscape varies from semi-arid plains and volcanic hills to rivers, springs, and wooded grasslands. Tsavo East is flatter while Tsavo West is more mountainous.

In Tsavo, walking safaris are permitted in designated areas with armed rangers and professional guides, offering a unique perspective of the wilderness.

In Tsavo, the main rivers are the Galana, Tsavo, and Athi Rivers, which provide essential water sources for wildlife and create diverse ecosystems along their banks.

In Tsavo, scenic flights and charter planes offer aerial views of the vast landscape. Several airstrips serve the park, making fly-in safaris possible.

In Tsavo, many lodges cater to families with special activities, family rooms, swimming pools, and child-friendly menus. Game drives can be adjusted to suit children’s needs.

In Tsavo, budget options include public campsites, self-drive safaris, and affordable lodges. The park is generally less expensive than other Kenyan safari destinations.

In Tsavo, you can spot diverse wildlife including lesser kudu, gerenuk, oryx, waterbuck, various monkey species, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species along with numerous smaller mammals.

In Tsavo, many luxury lodges and camps offer swimming pools to cool off after game drives. Notable ones include Kilaguni Serena Lodge, Finch Hattons, and Voi Wildlife Lodge.

In Tsavo, 4×4 vehicles are essential for game drives and getting around. Most visitors use tour operator vehicles or hire guides, though self-drive is possible with proper planning.

For your Tsavo adventure, book directly through Baecation Adventures to experience this magnificent park. We handle all the arrangements for your safari, ensuring a seamless journey through Kenya’s largest national park. Contact us to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons, and let us create your perfect Tsavo experience.

Open chat
Hello
How can we help you today?