Tsavo West National Park

See A Land of Lava, Lions & Rhinos on a Tsavo West National Park Safari

Tsavo West National Park : Off-Road 4x4 Jeep Safaris and Fly-In Safari Packages

Experience the allure of Tsavo West National Park, where Africa’s magnificent wildlife thrives against a backdrop of rugged rock formations, volcanic landscapes, and verdant watering holes. Amidst the acacia-studded hills, a captivating array of elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and endangered rhinos awaits your discovery.

This sanctuary presents a captivating competition between the dramatic land forms and the vibrant wildlife, vying for your attention. Observe giraffes gracefully grazing on treetops, while nearby bush-babies, hartebeests, gerenuks, and impalas emerge from the lush vegetation.

The park’s avian inhabitants create an ever-enchanting symphony, as your senses awaken to over 500 bird species, including African skimmers, yellow bishops, ostriches, starlings, weavers, kingfishers, and herons. A climb to Tsavo’s numerous vantage points unveils awe-inspiring vistas, with the distant snow-capped peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro serving as a breathtaking centerpiece.

13 Days East Africa Bush and Beach

Bush & Beach

Nairobi, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Zanzibar

13 Days East Africa Bush and Beach

Bush & Beach

Nairobi, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Zanzibar

13 Days East Africa Bush and Beach

Bush & Beach

Nairobi, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Zanzibar

13 Days East Africa Bush and Beach

Bush & Beach

Nairobi, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Zanzibar

About Tsavo West National Park

Best Time to Visit Tsavo West National Park

The best time to visit Tsavo West National Park depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your safari. Generally, Tsavo West National Park can be visited year-round, but there are certain seasons that offer unique advantages:

  1. Dry Season (June to October and January to February): This is the peak tourist season due to the dry weather. During these months, vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources. The lack of rain also means that animals are more predictable in their movements. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time for tourism, and accommodations may fill up quickly.
  2. Wet Season (March to May and November to December): The wet season brings greener landscapes and lower crowds. The park becomes more lush and vibrant during this time, and it’s a great opportunity for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive. Although wildlife can be harder to spot due to the denser vegetation, this is a good time for photographers and those who appreciate the park’s natural beauty.
  3. Birdwatching Season (November to April): As mentioned earlier, the wet season is particularly good for birdwatching, as migratory birds from Europe and Northern Africa arrive. Bird enthusiasts will have a fantastic time observing a wide variety of species.
  4. Calving Season (December to March): This is the time when many herbivores give birth to their young ones. It’s a heartwarming experience to witness baby animals taking their first steps in the wild.
  5. Landscape Photography Season: If you’re interested in capturing dramatic landscapes and lush greenery, visiting during the wet season (March to May and November to December) could provide fantastic photographic opportunities.

Keep in mind that weather patterns can vary from year to year, and there might be slight deviations from the general trends. It’s a good idea to check with local tour operators or the park authorities for the most up-to-date information on weather, wildlife sightings, and park conditions before planning your visit.

Tsavo West National Park Wildlife & Landscape

Tsavo West National Park is a haven for wildlife and offers a diverse and captivating landscape that sets the stage for an unforgettable safari experience.

 

Wildlife:

  • Large Mammals: Tsavo West is home to a rich array of iconic African wildlife. You can spot elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and both black and white rhinos. These majestic animals roam the park’s varied habitats, from open savannas to dense forests.
  • Giraffes: Giraffes are a common sight in Tsavo West, often seen gracefully feeding on the leaves of acacia trees. They add an elegant touch to the landscape.
  • Antelopes: Various antelope species, including impalas, hartebeests, and gerenuks, thrive in the park. Gerenuks are particularly interesting, as they have the ability to stand on their hind legs to reach higher foliage.
  • Carnivores: Besides lions and leopards, you may also encounter cheetahs, wild dogs, and spotted hyenas, contributing to the park’s predator-prey dynamics.
  • Birdlife: Tsavo West boasts an impressive diversity of bird species. From African skimmers and yellow bishops to kingfishers, herons, and ostriches, bird enthusiasts will find plenty to marvel at.

Landscape:

  • Rocky Peaks and Volcanic Terrain: The park’s landscape is punctuated by ancient volcanic formations and rugged rock outcrops. These geological features create a visually striking backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography.
  • Lush Watering Holes: The lush, green watering holes are a hub of activity, drawing animals from across the park. These oases provide prime locations for wildlife observation.
  • Acacia-Studded Hills: The park’s terrain is characterized by acacia-dotted hills and valleys. The acacia trees not only provide food and shelter for animals but also add to the park’s scenic beauty.
  • Mzima Springs: One of the highlights of Tsavo West is the Mzima Springs, a series of natural springs that feed into pools inhabited by hippos and crocodiles. Visitors can view these aquatic creatures from underwater observatories.
  • Chyulu Hills: Tsavo West extends into the Chyulu Hills, an extension of volcanic terrain. These hills offer unique opportunities for hiking and exploration.
  • Viewpoints: The park features several vantage points that offer panoramic views of the landscape. These viewpoints are perfect for capturing stunning photographs and appreciating the scale and beauty of the park.

How to Get There

By Road

Travel from Nairobi by Safari Jeep  or scheduled transfer is a 230-mile drive and will take approximately six hours. The route will take guests south-east along the Uhuru Highway and eventually merge with the A104/Mombasa Road. The drive from Mombasa is 125 miles and will take approximately three hours.

By Air

Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Tsavo East National Park will take 60 minutes and 30 minutes from Mombasa. Guests can fly into Voi Airport and take a three-hour transfer or fly into the Kilaguni or Finch Hattons Airstips in Tsavo West, and do a road transfer to their respective lodge or camp in Tsavo East National Park. 

By Train

This is a unique way to travel from either Nairobi or Mombasa. The journey on the Madaraka Express will take approximately two hours and forty-five minutes from Nairobi and one and a half hours from Mombasa. The train will pull into the Vol Terminal, where representatives from various lodges and camps will meet guests to transfer them to their accommodation.

Get in touch with our safari booking team today!

If you would like more information on any of the range of safari trips we provide, contact the Sia Yangu Safaris. You can call us at +255 765 469 745 or contact us online and we will get back to you as soon as possible.