Kenya
Tsavo
Kenya's largest wilderness
Tsavo covers 22,000 km² — making it Kenya's largest protected wilderness, larger than Israel. Split by the Nairobi-Mombasa railway into East and West, it offers two distinct experiences: Tsavo East's vast plains and Tsavo West's volcanic landscapes.
Why we love Tsavo
Tsavo is what East Africa looked like before mass tourism. Visitor numbers are a fraction of the Mara. Lodges are spaced far apart. You can drive for hours without seeing another vehicle. The wildlife is harder to find, but the encounters feel more authentic.
Distinctive features
Tsavo's elephants are coated in red dust from the soil — the famous 'red elephants'. The lions here are largely maneless, a curiosity that has been the subject of multiple documentaries. Mzima Springs in Tsavo West produces 50 million gallons of crystal water daily, creating an oasis where you can underwater-watch hippos.
Best Time to Visit
June - October (dry season, animals concentrate at water)
Location
South-eastern Kenya, between Nairobi and Mombasa
Wildlife
Red Elephant
Elephants coated in Tsavo's distinctive red soil.
Lion
The famous maneless lions of Tsavo.
Black Rhino
Tsavo West hosts a rhino sanctuary.
Begin your Tsavo journey
Speak to a safari specialist about a custom itinerary or browse our crafted experiences.