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Covering over 9,000 sq. km, Tsavo West National Park makes up nearly 30% of Kenya’s protected area and is one of the country’s most diverse wilderness destinations. Located along the Nairobi–Mombasa highway, the park stretches from Mtito Andei down to the Tanzanian border.
Unlike its sister park, Tsavo East, Tsavo West boasts a rugged, varied landscape of savannah grasslands, rocky ridges, volcanic cones, swamps, rivers, and springs. It’s a land where history and nature collide, from the infamous man-eating lions of the 19th century to the ecological scars of 1980s poaching, Tsavo West has witnessed it all. Today, it’s a thriving habitat once again, rewarding patient visitors with breathtaking wildlife and scenery.
Major Attractions and Activities in Tsavo West National Park
- Mzima Springs: A lush oasis producing 250 million litres of crystal-clear water daily from the Chyulu Hills. The springs support hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species and supply most of Mombasa’s fresh water.
- Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary: A 90 sq. km fenced reserve dedicated to the protection of the highly endangered black rhino. Located at the base of Ngulia Hills, it offers one of the best chances to spot this elusive species.
- Ngulia Hills and Rhino Valley: Rising 600m above the plains, Ngulia Hills form one of Tsavo’s most striking landscapes. The surrounding Rhino Valley is prime wildlife country, home to antelopes, big cats (lion, leopard, cheetah), elephants, giraffes, and black rhinos.
- Shetani Lava Flows and Caves: A dramatic expanse of folded black lava covering 50 sq. km, formed only a few centuries ago. Local legends named it “Shetani” (the devil), believing it was the underworld erupting to the surface. Great for geological exploration and short hikes.
- Chaimu Crater & Roaring Rocks: Volcanic cones offering panoramic views of the Chyulu Hills, the surrounding plains, and circling raptors. Adventurous travelers can hike the trails, though caution is advised as lava caves may shelter snakes or large mammals.
- Lake Jipe: A scenic lake straddling the Kenya–Tanzania border, perfect for boat excursions and bird watching.
- Tsavo River: A green corridor lined with doum palms, sustaining wildlife and birdlife year-round. Leopards are often spotted resting in the trees.
Wildlife and Birdlife in Tsavo West National Park
- Wildlife: Elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, black rhinos, wild dogs, hyenas, lesser kudu, mongoose, dik-dik, and nocturnal porcupines.
- Birdlife: Over 600 bird species, including the threatened corncrake and the near-threatened Basra Reed Warbler.
Activities at Tsavo West
- Game drives and guided walking safaris
- Rhino and big cat tracking
- Bird watching (including annual bird ringing at Ngulia Lodge)
- Rock and hill climbing (Chaimu, Ngulia Hills)
- Cave exploration (Shetani Caves)
- Camping and wilderness trails
How to Get To Tsavo West National Park
- By Road:
- From Nairobi or Mombasa via the Mtito Andei Gate (main entry).
- From Mombasa via Tsavo Gate near Manyani.
- From Amboseli via Chyulu Gate.
- From the Taveta–Voi road via Maktau, Ziwani, or Jipe gates.
- By Air:
Airstrips include Kamboyo, Kilaguni, Finch Hattons, Tsavo Gate, Ziwani, Kasigau, and Maktau, all well-maintained for light aircraft.
Other Park Details
- Climate: Semi-arid; temperatures range 20–30°C. Rainfall between 200–700mm, with long rains (Mar–Apr) and short rains (Nov–Dec).
- Entry Fees: Check the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) website for updated entry fees.
