Tsavo is Kenya's largest protected area, split administratively into Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Tsavo East is known for its open plains and 'red elephants' - so called because they dust-bathe in the park's red volcanic soil - while Tsavo West is hillier, with the Mzima Springs (fed by underground water from the Chyulu Hills) and views towards Kilimanjaro. Its size means wildlife densities can be lower and more spread out than in the smaller, more concentrated Mara or Amboseli.
Game drives in Tsavo East's open plains
Mzima Springs underwater viewing chamber in Tsavo West
Views of the Chyulu Hills and, on clear days, Kilimanjaro
Visit to Lugard Falls on the Galana River
Dry seasons (June-October and January-February) bring wildlife closer to remaining water sources and improve visibility, since vegetation is thicker in the wet months.
By road, Tsavo East and West are roughly 4-5 hours from Nairobi and are also natural stops on the road route between Nairobi and the Kenyan coast (Mombasa/Diani).
A wide range from budget campsites to luxury lodges, several built around the parks' natural water sources.
Because of its size, expect more driving between game-viewing areas than in smaller parks
A practical stop if you're combining a safari with a Kenyan coast/beach extension
Malaria risk area
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