Tsavo National Parks form the largest protected wildlife area in Kenya, divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks and separated by the Nairobi–Mombasa highway. Together, they create an immense and diverse wilderness stretching from semi-arid plains to volcanic hills, lava flows, rivers, and natural springs. The scale and rawness of Tsavo give visitors a true sense of untamed Africa, far less crowded than many other parks.
Tsavo East is known for its open landscapes, flat plains, and the Galana River, which attracts large concentrations of wildlife. It is especially famous for its red elephants, whose color comes from dusting themselves in the park’s iron-rich soil. Tsavo West, by contrast, is more mountainous and scenic, featuring dramatic terrain, dense bush, and natural wonders such as lava fields and crystal-clear springs.
Together, the parks support a rich diversity of wildlife including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species. Tsavo is also historically significant, known for the legendary man-eating lions during the railway construction era. Today, Tsavo National Parks offer a powerful blend of wildlife, history, and dramatic scenery, making them ideal for travelers seeking a more adventurous and authentic safari experience.
