Red soil plains stretch across 13,747 square kilometers of African savanna, where elephants roam through doum palm groves and lions hunt near the Galana River.
Tsavo East National Park, Kenya's largest national park, covers 13,747 square kilometers in the southeastern region. You'll spot red-dusted elephants bathing in the Galana River while maneless lions hunt across the savanna. Walk up to Mudanda Rock to watch hundreds of animals drink from its natural pools, or drive along the 290-kilometer Yatta Plateau, where ancient lava formed the world's longest flow.
Wildlife of Tsavo East
Four of Africa's "Big Five" roam the vast plains and riverbeds of Tsavo East - elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo. Watch as elephants coat themselves in the park's distinctive red soil, creating a striking contrast against the semi-arid terrain. Male lions here rarely grow manes, making them unique among African lion populations. You can track cheetahs hunting gazelles on open plains, while at the riverbanks, hippos wallow in pools and crocodiles sun themselves on sandbanks. Look for specialized desert animals like the long-necked gerenuk antelope and the blue-legged Somali ostrich.
Landscape and Natural Features
The Galana River flows through the park's center, sustaining wildlife throughout the year. Stop at Lugard Falls to see white water rapids tumble over black rocks. The 1.6-kilometer Mudanda Rock collects rainwater in natural pools, attracting elephants, zebras, and antelopes during dry spells. The Yatta Plateau stretches along the western boundary - a testament to volcanic activity from Ol Donyo Sabuk Mountain millions of years ago.
When to Visit and Climate
Plan your visit between June and October or January and February for optimal wildlife viewing. During these dry months, short grass makes animals easier to spot as they gather around water sources. Expect hot temperatures year-round, with the wet season running from November to May. Start your game drives early in the morning when animals are most active, before they retreat from the midday heat.
Getting Around and Activities
Drive through the park's network of roads to explore its wilderness. Several airstrips connect different sections of the park. Enter through the main Mtito Andei Gate, located 233 kilometers from Nairobi on the Mombasa highway. Stop at designated points to observe wildlife at waterholes and along the Galana River. Join guided walking safaris to experience the landscape on foot. Book your stay at public campsites or reserve special campsites in advance for more remote locations.
Historical Context
The Orma pastoralists and Watha hunter-gatherers lived in this region before its designation as a national park in 1948. In the late 1800s, two maneless lions disrupted the Kenya-Uganda railway construction, reportedly killing over 100 workers. The railway continues to run through the park today, giving travelers an alternative way to access this wilderness.
