What to keep in mind when going to Tsavo

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Fun and adventure in the African wild. (Jayne Rose Gacheri/The Standard)

Tsavo-East National Park is located in the southeastern part of the country (between Nairobi and Mombasa). It is one of the largest and oldest parks. It is a nature and outdoor lover’s haven.

The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the big five.

It is also home to over 500 bird species.

Tsavo is a vast and breathtaking landscape characterized by open plains, bushy grasslands, dense thickets. The Galana River, which flows through it and is a vital water source for the animals.

Tsavo East National Park is a great destination for those who love the adventure of experiencing the African wild as nature intended it to be.

Accessibility

Tsavo-East National Park is located 233 km from Nairobi and about a five-hour drive. The park is accessible by road and train (If you take the SGR to Voi Town), hence a quick and easy place to visit. 

Tsavo East National Park experiences hot and dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. The park receives most of its rainfall between March and May and between October and December.

The park offers many fun and adventurous activities; such as bird-watching, bush walks, bush breakfast, game drives, hiking, camping, sundowner dinners and stargazing

Accommodation

A visitor can choose from many available accommodation options within the park with options for Camps, luxury Lodges (like the Boma Simba Safari Lodge), cottages, and budget campsites.

Pack light, comfortable clothing, and sturdy shoes for walking and hiking (hiking boots or sports shoes would be handy).

Additionally, carry long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect you from mosquitoes and the sun.

Other items include socks, boots/shoes, and a hat to protect you from the sun. Also, remember to pack some warm clothing for early morning and evening game drives. Park swimwear if your accommodation has a pool. 

Carry essential toiletries such as sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and an insect repellent.

Safari gear essentials

Include binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera with extra batteries, memory cards, a backpack, or a day pack for carrying essentials.

Also remember a water bottle to stay hydrated during game drives, a safari hat with a wide brim to shield you from the sun trekking pole if you plan to hike.

Carry a valid identity document, cash or credit card for park fees, souvenirs, tips, a flashlight, or headlamp for walking around your accommodation at night, and a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids and painkillers, and snacks and drinks for long drives.

Lastly, It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you leave to pack accordingly.

Do not forget to inquire from your accommodation about any items they may recommend or provide. Equipped with this, you are now best prepared for the experience of a lifetime as you tour the glorious Tsavo East National Park and the new emerging tourist destination of Taita-Taveta.

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