Things To Do
in Tsavo
Tsavo, Kenya is one of Africa's largest national parks, sprawling across vast savannahs and rugged volcanic landscapes. The park is famous for its large herds of elephants with distinctive red dust from the Tsavo soils after dust storms. Visitors experience epic game drives, river crossings, and wildlife concentrated around watering holes, especially at dawn and dusk.
While forestry and community camps offer cultural insights, protected areas preserve ecosystems and remote camp experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Tsavo National Park and check into your lodge surrounded by the stunning landscapes. After settling in, enjoy a guided early morning game drive where you may spot elephants, lions, and diverse bird species. Bask in the beauty of the African sunrise as you begin your adventure in this magnificent wildlife haven.
Return to your lodge for a sumptuous lunch featuring local cuisine with a view of the savannah. Post-lunch, embark on an afternoon guided walking safari to immerse yourself in the flora and fauna up close, allowing for excellent photography opportunities. Encounter smaller wildlife and learn about the ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide.
As dusk settles, enjoy a scenic sunset over the park while sipping on refreshing drinks. Experience a traditional Kenyan dinner under the stars, accompanied by local music and dance performances. Reflect on the day's adventures and share stories with fellow travelers around the campfire.
Set off early for a game drive in Tsavo East, known for its red elephants and vast plains. The early morning hours offer the best chance to see wildlife as they are most active, providing thrilling encounters with predators and prey. Take in the sights and sounds of the park as you navigate through its diverse habitats.
After a picnic lunch in a designated area, visit the KWS Environmental Education Centre to learn about conservation efforts in the region. Continue your safari with a drive to the Galana River, where elephant herds gather to drink and families of hippos wallow in the water. Keep an eye out for crocodiles sunbathing on the riverbank.
Wind down at your lodge with an evening drink while watching the vibrant colors of the sunset paint the sky. Relish a delicious dinner followed by a brief educational talk from a local ranger about the wildlife in Tsavo. Enjoy some stargazing in the clear African night, as the vast sky reveals its constellations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛏️One night in mid-range lodge | $70-150 |
| 🚗Fuel for a day trip | $15-25 |
| 🎟️Park entry/fees | $60-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Extensive wildlife and breathtaking savannah landscapes
- Value for money in many lodge packages
- Low crowds compared to other major parks
- Cultural experiences with local communities
- Limited nightlife and commercial amenities
- Rough road conditions in some areas
- Long travel distances between different park sections
- To access some areas, you may need 4x4 vehicles
- "Habari" - Hello / How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Bei gani?" - How much is this?
- "Nahitaji mchango wa mwongozo" - I need a guide
Places to Visit in Tsavo
Visit one of these nice places.
Underwater viewing of hippos and fish with occasional crocodiles; great for close-up wildlife shots.
Dramatic light over the river as elephants and birds gather at water sources.
Long lava-flow ridges and expansive savannah ideal for wide landscape photography.
Silhouettes of acacia trees and wildlife against a warm sky.
Food in Tsavo
Tsavo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat (often beef or goat) served with kachumbari and ugali.
Must-Try!
Maize flour porridge served with sautéed greens; a staple side.
Flatbread served with vegetable stew.
Boiled maize and beans, often spiced; a common hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fresh produce, chapati, and fried snacks.
Markets near the park boundary offering fresh fruit and street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask for permission before photographs of people or villages; greet with a friendly 'Habari' or 'Jambo' and respect local customs.
Modest clothing in villages; avoid loud behavior near wildlife; keep noise to a minimum at camps.
Safety
Tipping in Tsavo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips for guides and lodge staff are customary; 5-10% for guides, small tips for rangers and trackers.
Cash in Kenyan shillings or USD; many lodges accept credit cards and M-Pesa mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with cooler nights; best for wildlife visibility and game drives. Roads are drier, though some tracks remain rough.
Short or long rains bring vibrant landscapes and birdlife; some roads may close after heavy rains; expect more mud and mosquito activity.
Tsavo at Night
Hiking in Tsavo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hikes in rolling green hills with panoramic savannah views.
Ridge walks along the lava plateau with dramatic landscape vistas.
Forest and hillside trails offering birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Tsavo by plane.
Nairobi's main international gateway; drive or fly to Tsavo via air or road.
Mombasa's international airport; serves regional flights to Tsavo routes.
Small regional airstrip near Voi used by safari flights for quick transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Pastoral communities around the park boundary, notable for beadwork and cattle herding.
Local farming communities in nearby towns who contribute to regional markets and culture.
Diverse workforce including many from local communities providing hospitality services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Kenyan towns around Tsavo.
A growing sport among youth and local clubs.
Kenya's renowned track and field culture influences local communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tsavo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on ugali, sukuma wiki, beans, lentils; ask for oil-free or light oil preparation and confirm no meat stock.