Tsavo East vs Tsavo West – Which Safari Should You Choose?
Setting the Scene
When you dream of a safari in Kenya, two names stand out: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Together, they make up the largest wildlife sanctuary in Kenya, often called the Theater of the Wild. But which one should you choose for your safari?
At Annest Kenya Safaris, we’ve guided guests through both parks for over a decade, and we know exactly what makes each destination unique. Whether you’re after the big red elephants of Tsavo East or the scenic landscapes and rhino sanctuary of Tsavo West, this guide will help you decide.
Or, if you don’t want to choose, join our combined Tsavo East & West Safaris for the best of both worlds.
Tsavo East National Park – The Wild Frontier
- Known as the land of red elephants thanks to the dusty, rust-colored soil.
- Vast open savannah, ideal for spotting large herds and predators.
- Wildlife highlights: Elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.
- Famous sites: Aruba Dam, Mudanda Rock, and the Galana River.
Best for: Wildlife photography, open plains, classic safari feel.
Imagine watching a herd of elephants bathe in the Galana River while the African sun paints the sky golden… this is Tsavo East.
Tsavo West National Park – Scenic Wilderness
- More rugged and dramatic landscapes compared to Tsavo East.
- Known for volcanic hills, lava flows, and lush greenery after rains.
- Wildlife highlights: Black rhinos at the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, leopards, crocodiles, and hippos at Mzima Springs.
- Unique experience: Breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro from the park’s western side.
Best for: Landscapes, rhino sightings, diverse safari experiences.
Picture yourself standing at Mzima Springs, gazing at hippos through crystal-clear waters with Kilimanjaro rising in the background.
Tsavo East vs Tsavo West – Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Tsavo East | Tsavo West |
|---|---|---|
| Size & Feel | Vast, open, wild – less crowded | Smaller, more scenic, diverse landscapes |
| Wildlife | Large herds of elephants, lions, cheetahs | Black rhinos, leopards, hippos, crocodiles |
| Accessibility | Easy from Mombasa & Diani Beach | Best from Amboseli, Nairobi, or Mombasa |
| Highlights | Aruba Dam, Galana River, Mudanda Rock | Mzima Springs, Rhino Sanctuary, Chyulu Hills |
| Best For | Big game, photography, open savannah feel | Landscapes, rhinos, Kilimanjaro views |
Not sure which one is right for you? Combine them in our Tsavo East & Tsavo West Safari Packages for the ultimate adventure.
How Many Days Do You Need for Tsavo Safaris?
- 1–2 days: Quick safari, ideal from the coast. Tsavo East works best due to open terrain.
- 3–4 days: Enough to explore both Tsavo East and Tsavo West together.
- 5+ days: Combine with Amboseli or the coast for a full safari-beach experience.
Our Recommended Safari Packages
- 2-Day Tsavo East Safari from Diani Beach
- 2-Day Tsavo East & Tsavo West Safari from Mombasa
- 3-Day Tsavo East & Tsavo West Safari
- 5 Days Amboseli & 2 Tsavo Parks
Talk to us today and we’ll craft the perfect Tsavo safari for you.
Ready to Discover Tsavo?
Whether you choose the wild vastness of Tsavo East, the scenic beauty of Tsavo West, or a combination of both, your safari will be unforgettable with Annest Kenya Safaris.
Book now and let’s plan your Tsavo safari today.
FAQs About Tsavo East & Tsavo West Safaris
Tsavo East is ideal for first-timers thanks to its open plains and easy game viewing.
Yes, both parks host the Big Five, though rhinos are best spotted in Tsavo West’s Ngulia Sanctuary.
Tsavo East is about 3–4 hours by road from Mombasa or Diani; Tsavo West is about 4–5 hours.
Tsavo East is about 3–4 hours by road from Mombasa or Diani; Tsavo West is about 4–5 hours.
The dry seasons (June–October, January–March) are best for wildlife viewing, though both parks offer year-round safaris.
Absolutely – many of our guests enjoy a Tsavo + Amboseli safari, then relax on the beaches of Diani or Mombasa.
