The Tsavo Guide

Getting to Tsavo East and Tsavo West

Tsavo lies between Nairobi and the Kenyan coast and can be reached by road, train or light aircraft. Journey times vary considerably because both parks are enormous. The times below are approximate travel times to the park gate or airstrip; visitors may need another 30 minutes to two hours to reach their lodge or camp.

Getting to Tsavo East

Tsavo East is particularly easy to reach from Mombasa, Diani, Watamu and Malindi. The main entrances are Voi, Bachuma, Manyani and Sala gates.

By Road

• From Nairobi: Approximately 6–8 hours to Voi Gate, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• From Mombasa: Approximately 2–3 hours to Bachuma Gate and around 3 hours to Voi Gate.
• From Diani Beach: Approximately 3½–4½ hours, usually entering through Bachuma or Voi Gate.
• From Malindi: Approximately 2 hours to Sala Gate, although the road can take longer after heavy rain.
• From Watamu: Approximately 2½–3 hours to Sala Gate, depending on road conditions.
• From Tsavo West: Generally 2–4 hours, depending on the gates used and the location of each camp.

Driving is usually the best choice for visitors travelling from the coast because the journey is relatively short and the safari vehicle can be used for game drives once inside the park.

By Train

The Madaraka Express railway connects Nairobi and Mombasa with Voi Station, close to Tsavo East.

• Nairobi to Voi: Approximately 4 hours on the morning Inter-County train.
• Mombasa to Voi: Approximately 2 hours.
• Voi Station to the park: Usually 30–60 minutes, depending on the gate and lodge.

The train is comfortable and avoids the Nairobi–Mombasa highway, but a safari vehicle and driver must be arranged to meet guests at Voi Station. The morning Inter-County service is normally the most practical because it arrives during daylight.

By Air

There is currently no widely available daily scheduled service into Tsavo East, but private charter flights can be arranged.

• From Nairobi’s Wilson Airport: Approximately 50–60 minutes.
• From Mombasa or the coast: Approximately 30–45 minutes.
• Main airstrips: Voi and Ithumba, with other airstrips including Aruba and several lodge airstrips.

Flying is the quickest option, particularly for guests visiting remote camps, but it is usually more expensive than driving or taking the train. The correct airstrip should be chosen according to the location of the accommodation.

Getting to Tsavo West

Tsavo West is most easily reached from Nairobi, Amboseli or by scheduled flight. Its principal entrances include Mtito Andei, Tsavo River, Chyulu, Maktau and Lake Jipe gates.

By Road

• From Nairobi: Approximately 4–5 hours to Mtito Andei Gate. Allow 5–7 hours to reach some lodges inside the park.
• From Mombasa: Approximately 4–6 hours, depending on the entrance gate and location of the lodge.
• From Diani Beach: Approximately 5–6 hours.
• From Amboseli: Approximately 3–4 hours, usually entering through Chyulu Gate or approaching via the main highway.
• From Tsavo East: Approximately 2–4 hours, depending on where the two camps are situated.

The road journey works particularly well when combining Tsavo West with Amboseli or Tsavo East. KWS places Mtito Andei Gate approximately 240 kilometres from Nairobi and 250 kilometres from Mombasa.

By Train

The morning Inter-County Madaraka Express stops at Mtito Andei Station, close to one of Tsavo West’s main entrances.

• Nairobi to Mtito Andei: Approximately 3 hours.
• Mombasa to Mtito Andei: Approximately 3–3½ hours.
• Station to the lodge: Usually 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the property.

Guests must arrange for their lodge or safari operator to meet them at the station. The train can be convenient, although the onward transfer is often longer than it is from Voi into Tsavo East.

By Scheduled Flight

Tsavo West has better scheduled flight connections than Tsavo East.

• From Nairobi’s Wilson Airport: Approximately 50 minutes.
• From Mombasa or Ukunda: Approximately one hour.
• Main scheduled airstrips: Kilaguni and Finch Hattons.
• Other airstrips: Kamboyo and several smaller lodge or charter airstrips.

Safarilink currently operates scheduled services from Wilson Airport to Tsavo West, while Mombasa Air Safari offers connections from the coast, principally using the Finch Hattons airstrip. Flight schedules can be seasonal, and some services may include additional stops.

Flying is generally the best option for guests with limited time or those staying at a lodge close to one of the main airstrips.

Vaccination Requirements for Kenya

Most international travellers do not need any compulsory vaccinations to enter Kenya unless they are arriving from, or have transited through, a Yellow Fever risk country.

In that case, a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required. Kenya no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a pre-departure COVID-19 test for routine entry.

For safari travel, guests should still consult a doctor or travel clinic well before departure for personal advice on recommended vaccinations, malaria prevention and general travel health.

Kenya no longer issues traditional tourist visas for most international visitors. Instead, travellers are required to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travelling to Kenya.

The eTA should be completed before departure and applies to most visitors, including children and infants. Travellers will usually need a passport valid for at least six months, with at least one blank page, as well as travel dates, accommodation details, a passport-style photo or selfie, contact details and a payment method.

We recommend applying well in advance of your safari and checking the official Kenya eTA website before you travel, as entry requirements can change.

Tsavo East and Tsavo West Park Fees

The following conservation fees apply to both Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks.

Park fees are charged per person (and do not include vehicle fees, accommodation or other safari costs).

East African Citizens – KES

• Adults: KES 1,000
• Children/students: KES 500

Kenyan Residents – KES

• Adults: KES 1,350
• Children/students: KES 675

African Citizens – USD

• Adults: USD 40
• Children/students: USD 20

Non-Residents – USD

• Adults: USD 80
• Children/students: USD 40

Vehicle Fees Per Day – KES

These charges are additional to the per-person park fees.

• Fewer than 6 seats: KES 600
• 6–12 seats: KES 1,500
• 13–24 seats: KES 3,000
• 25–44 seats: KES 4,500
• 45 seats and above: KES 5,000

Aircraft Landing Fees – USD

Aircraft charges are based on the aircraft’s maximum weight. Passenger park fees are charged separately.

• Up to 1,500 kg: USD 10
• 1,501–2,500 kg: USD 20
• 2,501–5,000 kg: USD 25
• 5,001–10,000 kg: USD 40
• 10,001–20,000 kg: USD 65
• 20,001–40,000 kg: USD 102

Daily Aircraft Parking Fees

• Up to 10,000 kg: USD 24
• 10,001–40,000 kg: USD 40

Trucks and Delivery Vehicles Per Day – KES

• 1–3 tonnes: KES 1,000
• 4–7 tonnes: KES 2,250
• More than 7 tonnes: KES 3,250

Annual Tourism and Commercial Vehicle Fees – KES

• Tourism service vehicles with fewer than 6 seats and commercial vehicles under 2 tonnes stationed in the park: KES 10,000
• Tourism service vehicles with 6–12 seats and commercial vehicles of 2–5 tonnes stationed in the park: KES 15,000
• Tourism service vehicles with 6–12 seats not stationed in the park: KES 60,000
• Tourism service vehicles with more than 13 seats and commercial vehicles over 5 tonnes stationed in the park: KES 100,000
• Tourism service vehicles with more than 13 seats and commercial vehicles over 5 tonnes not stationed in the park: KES 145,000

Useful Information

Daily Fee - A daily fee covers a single entry into the park and is valid for a period not exceeding 24 hours.

Students - A student is someone aged 23 or younger from a recognised secondary school, college or university. The visit must be for educational purposes and organised and documented by the educational institution. A valid student identification card may be required.

Children - A child is anyone under 18 years old. Children aged five years and younger are exempt from conservation fees; child rates therefore generally apply from 6 to 17 years.

East African Citizens - East African citizen rates apply to citizens of East African Community member countries who present valid identification or a passport.

Kenyan Residents - Resident rates apply to non-Kenyan citizens legally residing in Kenya who present a valid residence permit.

African Citizens - African citizen rates apply to citizens of African countries outside the East African Community who present a valid passport.

Corporate Pass - Corporate passes may be issued to eligible utility providers with installations inside KWS-managed parks, reserves or sanctuaries.

Payment - Park fees are paid through the KWS eCitizen payment portal. Accepted payment methods include:

• M-Pesa
• Visa card
• Direct bank transfer

Rates are based on the current Wildlife Conservation and Management Fees Regulations, 2025 and the KWS payment guidance.

Fees can change, so visitors should confirm with your safari operator before travelling.

Attractions and Things to Do in Tsavo

Tsavo is divided into two very different parks. Tsavo East is larger, drier and more open, making it particularly good for wildlife viewing and its famous red elephants. Tsavo West is greener and more mountainous, with volcanic scenery, natural springs, lakes and dramatic viewpoints.

Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo East is known for its vast landscapes, red earth and large elephant herds. Its open plains generally make wildlife easier to spot than in the thicker vegetation of Tsavo West.

• Wildlife game drives: Look for elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, gerenuk, oryx, kudu and many other animals.
• The red elephants of Tsavo: Tsavo’s elephants often appear red after covering themselves in the park’s iron-rich soil.
• Galana River: One of the park’s most important water sources, attracting elephants, hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife.
• Lugard Falls: A dramatic series of rapids where the Galana River rushes through channels carved into the rock.
• Mudanda Rock: A long rocky outcrop overlooking a natural water catchment. It is an excellent place to watch elephants and other animals coming to drink.
• Aruba Dam: A popular wildlife-viewing area where animals gather around the water, particularly during the dry season.
• Yatta Plateau: An enormous ancient lava flow running along the park’s western boundary and one of Tsavo East’s most striking geographical features.
• Birdwatching: Tsavo East supports an exceptional variety of resident and migratory birds, including raptors, hornbills, ostriches, starlings and dry-country species.
• Photography: The open landscapes, red soil, large elephant herds and dramatic skies make Tsavo East particularly rewarding for wildlife and landscape photography.
• Guided walking safaris: Organised walks may be available in selected areas with an armed KWS ranger and must be arranged in advance.
• Camping and picnics: Visitors can use designated public and special campsites, as well as approved picnic areas within the park.

Tsavo West National Park

Tsavo West is greener, hillier and more scenic than Tsavo East. Wildlife can sometimes be more challenging to find in the thicker vegetation, but the park offers a greater variety of landscapes and places to explore.

• Wildlife game drives: Look for elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, kudu, oryx, hippos and, with luck, endangered black rhinos.
• Mzima Springs: Crystal-clear water rises through the volcanic rock to create a lush oasis. Visitors can follow the walking trail and may see hippos, crocodiles, fish, monkeys and numerous birds.
• Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary: An important conservation area established to protect Tsavo’s black rhinos. Rhino sightings are possible but never guaranteed.
• Shetani Lava Flow: A vast expanse of black volcanic rock created by relatively recent eruptions, offering a striking contrast to the surrounding bush.
• Chaimu Hill and Crater: A volcanic hill that can be climbed for panoramic views. The black volcanic ground can become extremely hot, so morning visits are best.
• Roaring Rocks: An elevated viewpoint overlooking Tsavo’s plains, hills and wildlife corridors. It is particularly good for landscape photography.
• Poacher’s Lookout: Another excellent viewpoint offering far-reaching views across the park and towards the surrounding country.
• The Five Sisters Hills: A distinctive group of volcanic hills that forms one of Tsavo West’s most recognisable landscapes.
• Lake Jipe: A beautiful lake on the Kenya–Tanzania border, known for its wetland scenery, aquatic wildlife and excellent birdwatching. Boat excursions may be available by prior arrangement.
• Birdwatching: The park’s combination of woodland, grassland, wetlands, springs and rocky hills supports an exceptional variety of birds.
• Guided walks: Ranger-guided walks may be arranged in designated areas, including walking trails around some of the park’s natural attractions.
• Photography: Tsavo West is especially rewarding for landscape photography, with volcanic hills, lava fields, natural springs and views towards Mount Kilimanjaro.

• Camping and picnics: Public and special campsites are available, along with designated picnic areas.

Some activities, including walking safaris and boat excursions, must be arranged in advance. Access to certain attractions can also be affected by rain, road conditions or wildlife activity, so visitors should check with KWS, their lodge or their safari operator before travelling.

Is Kenya Good for Family Safaris?

Kenya is one of Africa’s best destinations for a family safari, especially for children who love animals, nature and adventure. Wildlife is often easy to see, travelling between destinations can be straightforward, and there is a wide choice of family-friendly lodges, private houses and tented camps.

A family safari is not quite the same as a beach holiday or resort-style break. It works best for families who are comfortable with early mornings, game drives, open spaces and some travelling between destinations. With the right itinerary, however, the pace can be kept relaxed and the safari can be designed around the children’s ages and interests.

For younger children, we normally recommend properties with flexible mealtimes, shorter game drives, family rooms, a swimming pool and guides who enjoy working with children. A private safari vehicle is particularly valuable because your family can choose when to leave, how long to stay at a sighting and when to return to camp.

For older children and teenagers, Kenya can be unforgettable. Seeing lions, elephants, giraffes and cheetahs in the wild is only part of the experience. Walking, tracking, meeting local communities, sleeping in a tented camp and spending evenings around the fire can make the safari both exciting and educational.

Family Safari Activities in Kenya

Activities vary between national parks, private conservancies and individual properties, but may include:

• Daytime game drives in search of elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, rhinos and other wildlife.
• The Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, including the possibility of seeing dramatic river crossings during the season.
• Guided nature walks and tracking experiences, depending on the children’s ages and the property’s safety policies.
• Junior ranger programmes, animal-spoor identification and other nature-based activities.
• Night drives in private conservancies, offering the chance to see nocturnal animals.
• Visits to Maasai, Samburu and other local communities, arranged respectfully through your camp or guide.
• Hot-air balloon safaris in selected destinations, usually followed by breakfast in the bush.
• Bush breakfasts, picnic lunches and family sundowners in scenic locations.
• Birdwatching, photography and learning about Kenya’s different habitats.
• Camel rides, horse riding, cycling or fishing at selected lodges and conservancies.
• Visits to wildlife conservation projects, where available.

Where to Go on a Family Safari

The Maasai Mara is an excellent choice for a first family safari because of its abundant wildlife and open landscapes. Private conservancies around the Reserve can be particularly suitable for families, offering fewer vehicles and a wider range of activities.

Amboseli is famous for its elephants and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Its open terrain can make wildlife easier for children to see, and it combines well with Nairobi and the Kenyan coast.

Laikipia and Northern Kenya offer a more varied and adventurous experience. Depending on where you stay, families may enjoy game drives, guided walks, camel rides, conservation activities and time with local communities.

Kenya’s coast is an excellent way to finish a family safari. After several days of early mornings and game drives, families can relax on the beach and enjoy swimming, snorkelling, dhow trips, fishing and other water-based activities.

Things to Consider When Planning

Age of the children: Some smaller camps have minimum-age restrictions, particularly for walking safaris, night drives and shared game vehicles.

Where to stay: Look for family rooms, private houses, flexible mealtimes, swimming pools and guides experienced with children.

Private vehicle: This is one of the best investments for a family safari because it allows you to travel entirely at your own pace.

Length of stay: Three nights in each safari area is usually a good minimum. Changing camps too frequently can make the holiday feel rushed and tiring.

Flying or driving: Flying is normally easier for families with younger children. Driving can offer more flexibility and scenery, but some journeys are long and roads can be rough.

Safari and beach balance: A good family itinerary might include three or four nights on safari, followed by several nights on the Kenyan coast. Longer holidays can combine two contrasting safari areas before finishing at the beach.

In simple terms, Kenya is an outstanding family safari destination—as long as the itinerary matches the children’s ages, the accommodation is carefully selected and the pace is kept comfortable. For many families, it becomes much more than a holiday: it is an adventure they remember for the rest of their lives.

How Long Should You Stay?

• Tsavo East: A minimum of two nights is recommended. Three nights are better for exploring the Galana River, Lugard Falls and the more remote northern areas.
• Tsavo West: Two nights allow time for game drives, Mzima Springs and the volcanic attractions. Three nights are preferable if including Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, Lake Jipe and the more distant viewpoints.
• Tsavo East and West combined: Four to five nights is ideal. Three nights is possible, but much of the trip will be spent travelling between camps.

For most visitors beginning on the coast, driving into Tsavo East is the easiest option. From Nairobi, a scheduled flight into Tsavo West offers the quickest and most comfortable journey, while a road safari works especially well when combining Tsavo with Amboseli.

Weather in Tsavo

Tsavo has a warm, semi-arid climate and can be visited throughout the year. Days are generally hot and sunny, while early mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool—particularly in Tsavo West’s higher and hillier areas.

Tsavo East Weather

Tsavo East is generally hotter and drier than Tsavo West.

• Average daytime temperatures are around 30–32°C.
• Night-time temperatures are usually around 19–21°C.
• January to March is normally the hottest period.
• July and August are cooler, although afternoons remain warm.
• The open plains can become hot, dusty and windy during prolonged dry periods.

Tsavo West Weather

Tsavo West is slightly cooler and receives more rain because of its higher elevation and varied landscape.

• Average daytime temperatures are around 28–30°C.
• Night-time temperatures are usually around 16–19°C.
• Mornings around the hills, springs and higher areas can feel quite cool.
• The park remains warm throughout the year, but temperatures are generally more comfortable from June to September.

Dry Seasons

January to February

This is a hot and mostly dry period. Vegetation begins to thin, and animals are increasingly drawn to permanent water sources.

June to October

This is the main dry season and usually offers the most dependable weather.

• Days are warm and sunny.
• Early mornings can be cool.
• Vegetation is thinner, making wildlife easier to see.
• Animals gather around rivers, dams, springs and waterholes.
• Roads are generally in their best condition.
• September and October can become particularly hot and dusty.

Rainy Seasons

March to May – Long Rains

The long rains usually begin in March and are heaviest during April and May.

• Rain often falls in short, heavy afternoon or evening showers.
• The landscape becomes green and dramatic.
• Wildlife disperses as seasonal water becomes available.
• Some roads can become muddy or temporarily difficult to use.
• April and May are normally the quietest months for visitors.

November to December – Short Rains

The short rains are less predictable and usually occur as brief but heavy showers.

• The park becomes greener and less dusty.
• Migratory birds begin arriving.
• Young animals are more commonly seen.
• Wildlife can be more spread out and slightly harder to find.

Rain rarely falls continuously throughout the day, and there are often long periods of sunshine between showers. However, seasonal patterns have become less predictable, so rainfall can start earlier, arrive later or fail altogether.

When Is the Best Weather?

• Best overall conditions: June to October.
• Best for cooler temperatures: July and August.
• Best for concentrated wildlife: August to October and January to February.
• Best for green landscapes and birdwatching: November to April.
• Quietest period: April and May.

There is no poor time to visit Tsavo. The dry season generally provides easier wildlife viewing, while the rainy months offer greener scenery, dramatic skies, fewer visitors and excellent birdlife.

Visitors should bring lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. A warm jacket is useful for early morning game drives, particularly in Tsavo West. During the rainy seasons, a light waterproof jacket and closed shoes are recommended.

Typical Tsavo East temperatures average about 31°C during the day and 20°C at night, with rainfall often peaking in April and November.