Tsavo National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular national parks. In addition, it is home to the big five animals. It is located in the South Eastern part of Kenya near Voi Town in the Taita-Taveta county. This amazing national park spans over 20,000 square kilometers. The park is separated into Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Equally important, this makes it the largest national park among other parks. Examples of other large parks include Masai Mara National Reserve and Samburu National Reserve. Tsavo National Park is the ideal safari location because of its rich wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and thrilling activities.
Travel back in time to Tsavo National Park History.
The park’s fame stems from the man-eating lions, resulting in the derivation of its name, “Tsavo,” from the local Taita word “tsavu,” meaning “a place of slaughter.”
The “Tsavo Man-Eaters” became known in 1898 during the construction of the Kenya-Uganda Railway. The railway workers had several difficulties during this time. One of the problems was attacks from man-eating lions. The man-eating lions gained notoriety and preyed on railroad employees. The two lions killed and maimed many of the railway workers.
However, a British military Colonel, John Henry Patterson, was assigned to deal with the man-eaters. He eventually tracked down and killed both lions after several months, ending their era of terror. The incident attracted a lot of attention and turned into a tale surrounding Tsavo.
Discover the magnificent wildlife.
The wildlife in the park can be seen in various ways. The park is a famous destination for wildlife lovers and photographers worldwide due to its abundant biodiversity.
Tsavo national park is home to all of the big five. They include dust-red elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceros, and buffalo. The dust-red elephants make the park famous due to the red coloration of their skin. The color is caused by the red soil that contains iron oxide and dust common in the region. The elephants cover themselves in this reddish dust to protect them from the sun and insects.
In addition, other wildlife inhabits the park. For example, zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, Lesser Kudu, Gerenuk (one of the special five wildlife animals), Hirola, and monkeys.
In addition, Tsavo National Park is home to over 500 species of birds, including eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Nevertheless, the park is also home to some reptiles, including crocodiles, snakes, and lizards.
Tsavo National Park Geology.
Tsavo National Park offers a visually significant landscape thanks to its geological variety. Additionally, It contributes significantly to forming the ecosystems that support the park’s abundant biodiversity.
First, the Galana River, the Athi River, and the Mzima Springs are just a few of the Kenya rivers in the park. These rivers are crucial to the ecosystem as a water source for the park’s wildlife and vegetation.
Second, Tsavo National Park is in the East African Rift System, known for its volcanic activity. Ancient volcanic formations and lava flows influence the park’s geology. The Chyulu Hills in Tsavo West are volcanic in origin and contain numerous volcanic cones and craters. Furthermore, The park features extensive basalt lava flows resulting from volcanic eruptions. The Shetani Lava Flow, located in Tsavo West, is a prominent example. It covers a vast area characterized by black, solidified lava stretching across the landscape.
Lastly, Yatta Plateau is a distinctive geological characteristic of Tsavo in Tsavo East. It is the world’s longest lava flow, measuring about 290 kilometers. A lava flow from the Ol Doinyo Sabuk volcano built the plateau as it solidified, leaving behind a level, raised landform.
Activities to engage in Tsavo National Park
Firstly, Tsavo National Park is one of Africa’s hubs of the Best Safari Destinations. On a safari vehicle, you will have a chance to observe various wildlife. Examples include lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, and zebras. Game drives are typically held when the animals are most active in the morning and late afternoon.
Secondly, Tsavo National Park is a great destination for bird-watching excursions in Kenya. The park boasts over 500 different bird species. Therefore, this makes the park a fantastic location for birdwatching. Due to the park’s diversity of habitats, you can view a broad range of birds there. For example, eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, flamingos, pelicans, and storks.
Thirdly, visitors can engage in cultural tours around the park. Tourists can learn about the Culture and traditions of the local communities. These communities include the Maasai, the Samburu, and the Kamba.
Lastly, camping is another activity to engage in at Tsavo National Park. For a completely immersive experience, spend the night in a designated campground inside the park. Stargaze, take in the sounds of the African night and awaken to the noises of the surrounding wildlife.
Tsavo National Park Entrance Fees.
For visitors to have a wonderful experience, they must pay the Kenya Wildlife Service, the park’s custodians.
Both citizens and resident adults pay an entry fee of Ksh 515. The none resident adults pay 52 USD, and the Children pay half the adult price.
Hotels and lodges
Best hotels and lodges in Tsavo West and East National Parks host guests. For example, Salt Lick Safari Lodge, Severin Safari Camp, Lions Bluff Lodge, and Kipalo Hills.