Tsavo East vs Tsavo West Safari Itineraries – Which Route Should You Choose?
Planning a Kenya safari and can’t decide between Tsavo East and Tsavo West? You’re not alone. Together, these two parks form one of the largest protected wildlife areas in the world – but each offers a unique safari experience.
At Annest Kenya Safaris, we’ve guided countless travelers across both parks, and here’s a breakdown of the best safari routes, itineraries, and experiences to help you decide.
Tsavo East Safari Itinerary – Red Elephants & Endless Savannahs
Tsavo East is famous for its vast open plains, dramatic landscapes, and the legendary red elephants of Tsavo.
2-Day Tsavo East Safari Itinerary:
- Day 1: Depart Diani/Mombasa → Enter Tsavo East → Morning game drive spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes. Lunch at your lodge, followed by an afternoon game drive to Aruba Dam.
- Day 2: Early morning drive → Search for cheetahs and buffalo → Breakfast & depart back to the coast.
Perfect for travelers short on time but craving authentic wildlife in Tsavo East.
Tsavo West Safari Itinerary – Rhinos, Volcanic Landscapes & Mzima Springs
Tsavo West is greener, more dramatic, and home to rare species like the black rhino.
3-Day Tsavo West Safari Itinerary:
- Day 1: Depart Nairobi/Mombasa → Enter Tsavo West → Afternoon safari exploring Shetani Lava Flows.
- Day 2: Morning game drive → Visit Mzima Springs to watch hippos and crocodiles. Afternoon visit to Rhino Sanctuary.
- Day 3: Early safari → Chance to spot leopards → Return to Nairobi or the coast.
Best for travelers wanting scenic landscapes and rhino sightings.
Tsavo East vs Tsavo West Safari – A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tsavo East Safari Itinerary | Tsavo West Safari Itinerary |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape | Open savannahs, red soil plains | Lush, volcanic hills, rivers |
| Wildlife Highlights | Red elephants, lions, cheetahs | Rhinos, hippos, leopards, crocodiles |
| Safari Style | Classic game drives, Big Five focus | Scenic drives, mix of wildlife + landscapes |
| Best For | First-time safari travelers, families | Photographers, return safari-goers |
Best Safari Routes – Combining Tsavo East & Tsavo West
For the ultimate Kenya safari, many travelers choose a combined Tsavo East & West itinerary.
- Option 1: 2-Day Tsavo East Safari – Quick wildlife-focused safari.
- Option 2: 3-Day Tsavo West Safari – Scenic + rhino sanctuary.
- Option 3: 4-Day Tsavo East & West Safari – The perfect balance of landscapes and wildlife.
At Annest Kenya Safaris, we customize each journey to fit your time, interests, and budget.
Best Time for Tsavo Safari
- Dry Season (June – October, January – February): Best for spotting wildlife around waterholes.
- Green Season (November – December, March – May): Lush scenery, birdwatching, and fewer tourists.
Why Choose Annest Kenya Safaris for Your Tsavo Safari?
✔ Experienced guides with 10+ years in Tsavo
✔ Flexible itineraries – choose 2-day or 3-day Tsavo safaris
✔ Custom packages for couples, families, or private safaris
✔ Affordable + luxury lodge options
Ready to plan your dream safari?
Experience the Best of Tsavo with Annest Kenya Safaris Book your Tsavo safari package today and witness the best wildlife and landscapes in Kenya.
FAQs – Tsavo East vs Tsavo West Safaris
Tsavo East safari itineraries are easier, with open plains and high chances of spotting elephants and lions.
No, rhinos are mainly found in the Rhino Sanctuary in Tsavo West.
Tsavo West’s volcanic hills and wildlife in Tsavo West make it a dream for photographers.
Yes, a 2-day Tsavo safari works well for coast-based travelers, but a 3-day Tsavo safari allows more relaxed exploration.
Absolutely! Many travelers pair Tsavo safari packages with Amboseli for elephants with Kilimanjaro views.
