Tsavo East National Park

One of Kenya's oldest and largest parks, known for its vast, open plains, the Yatta Plateau (one of the world's longest lava flows), and the Lugard Falls....

Tsavo East National Park at a Glance

Location
Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-2.842363, 38.699398
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
All year round

Safari Activities in Tsavo East National Park

  • Game drives
  • Guided tours
  • Bird watching
  • Camping

Getting to Tsavo East National Park

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 15 km away.

Nearest international airport: Moi International Airport (MBA), 165 km away.

Big Five in Tsavo East National Park

4 of the Big Five can be found here: Lion, African Buffalo, Leopard, Leopard Tortoise.

Weather & Climate in Tsavo East National Park

The warmest temperatures in Tsavo East National Park occur in March, averaging 27.8°C (up to 34.5°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 24.3°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 7.2mm. Average humidity: 60.5%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 26.8°C (rainfall: 59.8mm)
  • February: 27.8°C (rainfall: 39.5mm)
  • March: 27.8°C (rainfall: 55.2mm)
  • April: 26.7°C (rainfall: 83.5mm)
  • May: 26.2°C (rainfall: 27.3mm)
  • June: 25.1°C (rainfall: 10.8mm)
  • July: 24.3°C (rainfall: 7.2mm)
  • August: 24.4°C (rainfall: 9.6mm)
  • September: 25.1°C (rainfall: 13.4mm)
  • October: 26.4°C (rainfall: 22.5mm)
  • November: 25.8°C (rainfall: 183.0mm)
  • December: 25.7°C (rainfall: 136.5mm)

Best Time to Visit Tsavo East National Park

The best months to visit Tsavo East National Park are September, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 26.84°C, rainfall 59.8mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 67.1%
  • February: Great, temperature 27.79°C, rainfall 39.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 63.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 27.82°C, rainfall 55.2mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 64.5%
  • April: Great, temperature 26.71°C, rainfall 83.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 70.1%
  • May: Great, temperature 26.17°C, rainfall 27.3mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 63.6%
  • June: Great, temperature 25.13°C, rainfall 10.8mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 60.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 24.31°C, rainfall 7.2mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 60.5%
  • August: Great, temperature 24.44°C, rainfall 9.6mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 61.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 25.14°C, rainfall 13.4mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 62%
  • October: Great, temperature 26.41°C, rainfall 22.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 62.4%
  • November: Good, temperature 25.77°C, rainfall 183mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 73.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.74°C, rainfall 136.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 75.1%

Wildlife in Tsavo East National Park

Home to 105 recorded species including 30 iconic birds, 25 birds of prey, 24 waterbirds, 5 big herbivores, 5 antelope & gazelle, 5 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Tsavo East National Park

Based on average temperature of 26.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 65%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 26°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Tsavo East National Park

6 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem

Visitor Tips - Tsavo East National Park

We love Tsavo East for its dramatic, untamed landscapes and the iconic 'red elephants' that dust themselves in the park's distinctive soil. It offers a truly authentic, less crowded safari experience where the vastness of the African bush truly envelops you, making every sighting feel incredibly special and intimate.

Gate Times

The gates for Tsavo East National Park typically open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM daily. We always recommend arriving early for the best morning game viewing opportunities, as this is when many predators are most active. All entry fees, vehicle charges, and guided tour fees must be paid via eCitizen (MPesa or Visa Card) before arrival; cash payments are not accepted at the gates, so ensure your booking and payment are confirmed well in advance.

Tipping

Tipping is a valued gesture of appreciation for excellent service. For your safari guide, we suggest USD 15-25 per person per day, given discreetly at the end of your safari. Camp staff can be tipped via a communal staff box, typically USD 5-10 per person per day. If you engage a KWS ranger for a guided walk, USD 10-15 is appropriate for their expertise and safety guidance.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya

Tsavo East National Park FAQs

Why are the elephants in Tsavo East National Park famously known as 'red elephants'?

The elephants of Tsavo East are uniquely known as 'red elephants' due to their distinctive habit of dust bathing in the park's rich, red volcanic soil. This practice coats their skin in a striking reddish hue, making them a memorable and iconic sight for visitors.

What unique geological features and landmarks can I expect to see in Tsavo East National Park?

Tsavo East is home to the impressive Yatta Plateau, one of the world's longest lava flows, stretching for hundreds of kilometers across the park. You can also visit the scenic Lugard Falls, where the Galana River dramatically cascades over naturally sculpted rocks, offering a picturesque landscape.

What is the best time to visit Tsavo East National Park to maximize wildlife viewing and avoid crowds?

While Tsavo East can be visited all year round, the dry seasons (typically January-March and June-October) are often best for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Given its vast size and relatively low crowding level (2/5), you can enjoy a more secluded and authentic safari experience at any time of year.

How do I pay for park entry and activities at Tsavo East, and what are the typical costs for non-residents?

All payments for park entry and activities at Tsavo East National Park are exclusively processed via the eCitizen platform, accepting MPesa and Visa Card. For non-residents, adult entry is USD 80 per day, with additional charges for vehicles (e.g., KSH 1,500 for 6-12 seats) and guided tours (KSH 2,000 for up to 4 hours).

What kind of safari experience does Tsavo East offer, given its status as one of Kenya's oldest and largest parks?

As one of Kenya's oldest and largest parks, Tsavo East offers an expansive and classic safari experience across its vast, open plains, ideal for extensive game drives and bird watching. Its immense size and lower crowding level allow for a more immersive and less congested wildlife viewing, focusing on the 'red elephants' and big cats in a wild, untamed setting.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet Kenya by Lonely Planet - In-depth guide to Kenya - Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu, and the coast. Detailed maps, accommodation reviews, and practical travel advice.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds by Joy Adamson - The true story of raising Elsa the lioness in Kenya and releasing her back to the wild. The book that started safari tourism culture and inspired generations.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • The White Masai by Corinne Hofmann - International bestseller about a Swiss woman who falls in love with a Samburu warrior during a holiday in Kenya. A wild, unforgettable true story of cultural collision. Over 4 million copies sold.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen) - The quintessential Africa memoir - a poetic and evocative account of life on a coffee plantation in Kenya. The book that defined the romance of East Africa for generations.
  • I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann - Classic memoir of an Italian woman's life on a Kenyan ranch - turned into a Hollywood film. A beautiful and heartbreaking love letter to East Africa.
  • West with the Night by Beryl Markham - Aviation adventure memoir set in Kenya - Hemingway called it one of the finest books he had ever read. A unique perspective on colonial East Africa.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.