Tsavo National Park - Roaming Africa Safaris

Overview

Tsavo National Park is Kenya’s largest protected area, divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, together covering 22,000 sq km — larger than Wales. It is famous for its distinctive ‘red elephants’, who dust-bathe in the park’s red volcanic soil. Tsavo East offers open savannah and the Galana River, while Tsavo West features dramatic volcanic landscapes, Mzima Springs with its underwater hippo viewing, and the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary.

Destination Highlights

Discover what makes Tsavo National Park one of East Africa's most rewarding safari destinations — curated experiences our local team recommends.

Red Elephants of Tsavo

Unique red elephants found only in Tsavo.

Over 470 Bird Species

Paradise for bird enthusiasts with over 470 recorded species.

Over 420 Bird Species

Rich birdlife with over 420 species in diverse habitats.

Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary

Protected rhino sanctuary within a Big Five park.

Mzima Springs Crystal Pools

Underwater hippo viewing in crystal-clear springs.

Kenya's Largest Wilderness

Vast wilderness with authentic safari experience.

Combine with Mombasa Coast

Perfect bush-and-beach combination with coast.

500+ Bird Species

Exceptional birding with over 500 recorded species.

Sample Itinerary — 3 Days

A typical Tsavo National Park safari day-by-day.

Day 1: Mombasa to Tsavo East

Drive from Mombasa to Tsavo East. Afternoon game drive to see red elephants and lions.

Overnight: Voi Wildlife Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Tsavo West & Mzima Springs

Visit Tsavo West and Mzima Springs for underwater hippo viewing. Afternoon game drive.

Overnight: Kilaguni Serena Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Return to Mombasa

Morning game drive then return to Mombasa.

Best Time to Visit

June–October and January–February (dry seasons) for concentrated wildlife.

Wildlife to See

Red Elephants Lions Leopards Cheetahs Rhinos (Tsavo West) Buffaloes Hippos Crocodiles Gerenuk Over 500 bird species

Similar Destinations

Nairobi National Park

Masai Mara National Reserve

Amboseli National Park

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Tsavo's elephants red?

Tsavo's elephants regularly dust-bathe in the park's iron-rich red volcanic soil, giving them their famous reddish appearance.

What is the difference between Tsavo East and West?

Tsavo East is open semi-arid savannah with the Galana River. Tsavo West is more varied with hills, springs, and lava fields.

How far is Tsavo from Mombasa?

Tsavo East's main gate at Voi is approximately 160 km from Mombasa u2014 about 3 hours drive.

Can I combine Tsavo with a Mombasa beach holiday?

Yes, this is one of the most popular Kenya safari-beach combinations. Many travellers do 3 days Tsavo followed by Diani Beach.

Who were the Man-Eaters of Tsavo?

In 1898, two maneless male lions famously preyed on railway workers in the Tsavo region u2014 a story retold in the film The Ghost and the Darkness.