This three-day safari explores both Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks, providing an in-depth experience of Kenya’s largest conservation areas. Although these parks are adjacent to one another, they boast unique landscapes and varied wildlife experiences.

Day 1: Tsavo East National Park

1. early in the morning from your starting location (e.g., Mombasa or Malindi)
2. Travel to Tsavo East National Park (2- hours)
3. Enter the park and enjoy a game drive as you make your way to your lodge
4. Lunch at your selected lodge in Tsavo East
5. Afternoon game drive in Tsavo East
6. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay

Day 2: From Tsavo East to Tsavo West

1. Early morning game drive in Tsavo East
2. Return to the lodge for breakfast
3. Check out and drive to Tsavo West National Park (2-3 hours)
4. Game drive while heading to your lodge in Tsavo West
5. Lunch at the lodge
6. Afternoon game drive in Tsavo West
7. Optional visit to Mzima Springs
8. Dinner and overnight accommodation at your Tsavo West lodge

Day 3: Tsavo West

1. Early morning game drive in Tsavo West
2. Breakfast at the lodge
3. Mid-morning game drive or optional activities (e.g., visit to Shetani Lava Flow)
4. Lunch at the lodge
5. Final game drive as you exit the park
6. Return to your starting point in the late afternoon or evening

Key Locations

Tsavo East National Park

• Among the oldest and largest national parks in Kenya
• Renowned for its substantial elephant populations and the iconic “red elephants” covered in earth
• Characterized by flat, arid terrain with the Galana River as a prominent feature
• Home to varied wildlife such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, and numerous bird species

Tsavo West National Park

• More mountainous and wetter than Tsavo East, with stunning volcanic hills and lava rock formations
• Hosts Mzima Springs, a collection of natural springs featuring underwater viewing chambers
• Boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including black rhinos within the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary
• Recognized for its population of “big tusker” elephants

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

• Elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, and crocodiles
• Various species of antelope including kudu, gerenuk, and oryx
• Over 500 bird species documented across both parks

Key Attractions

1. Galana River (Tsavo East): Ideal for wildlife observation
2. Mudanda Rock (Tsavo East): A natural viewpoint and water catchment area
3. Mzima Springs (Tsavo West): Crystal-clear water springs with underwater viewing options
4. Shetani Lava Flow (Tsavo West): Expansive area of folded black lava
5. Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary (Tsavo West): A conservation area for black rhinos

Accommodation Options

• Tsavo East: Voi Wildlife Lodge, Ashnil Aruba Lodge, Satao Camp
• Tsavo West: Kilaguni Serena Lodge, Severin Safari Camp, Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp

Best Time to Visit

• Optimal wildlife viewing occurs from June to October and January to February (dry seasons)
• March to May and November to December are periods of rain, yielding lush scenery but potentially challenging travel conditions

What to Pack

• Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
• Warm layers for the cooler temperatures of early mornings and evenings
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Insect repellent
• Camera and binoculars
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking