Embark on a thrilling 2-day safari to Tsavo East National Park with Tsavo Kenya for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Known for its vast landscapes, abundant wildlife, and iconic “red elephants,” Tsavo East is one of Kenya’s most famous safari destinations. With a guided 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep, this adventure guarantees comfort, excitement, and exceptional wildlife sightings.
Key Highlights
- Explore one of Kenya’s largest national parks: Tsavo East spans over 13,000 square kilometers, offering vast plains, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.
- See the iconic “red elephants”: Witness these magnificent creatures, which bathe in the park’s rich red soil, giving them their unique color.
- Spot the Big Five: Tsavo East is home to elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos, making it one of the best places for a complete safari experience.
- Scenic landmarks: Visit the Yatta Plateau—the world’s longest lava flow, and the stunning Lugard Falls along the Galana River.
- Wildlife diversity: Encounter giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 species of birds during your safari.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Departure from Nairobi to Tsavo East
- 6:00 AM: Depart Nairobi in a 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep, accompanied by an experienced safari guide. The journey to Tsavo East takes approximately 4-5 hours, covering about 233 kilometers. Enjoy scenic views of the Chyulu Hills and local countryside along the way.
- 10:30 AM: Arrive at Voi Gate—one of the main entrances to Tsavo East National Park.
- 10:45 AM: Begin your first game drive as you enter the park, heading towards the Aruba Dam, a popular wildlife spot. You’ll have the chance to see elephants, zebras, buffaloes, and a variety of antelopes.
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at your accommodation for lunch and relaxation.
- 3:30 PM: Enjoy an afternoon game drive, exploring more of the park’s vast plains and rivers, including the Galana River, where you might spot crocodiles and hippos.
- 6:30 PM: Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Return to Nairobi
- 6:30 AM: Early morning game drive to catch the park’s wildlife at its most active. You may spot predators such as lions and leopards on the hunt or grazing herbivores like giraffes, gazelles, and warthogs.
- 9:00 AM: Return to the lodge for breakfast and some relaxation.
- 10:30 AM: Depart Tsavo East with a final game drive en route to Voi Gate.
- 12:00 PM: Begin your return journey to Nairobi, with a stopover for lunch.
- 4:30 PM: Arrive back in Nairobi, marking the end of your safari adventure.
Accommodation Options
Budget Option: Ndololo Public Campsite
Ndololo Public Campsite, operated by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), is a popular budget accommodation option located within Tsavo East National Park. The campsite is ideal for travelers seeking an affordable, close-to-nature safari experience. It offers a simple, no-frills option for wildlife enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in the wild without the higher costs of lodges or tented camps.
Key Features
- Location: Ndololo Campsite is strategically located along the Galana River and near popular game-viewing spots within the park, such as Aruba Dam and Lugard Falls. The campsite is also close to the Voi Gate, providing convenient access for visitors entering the park.
- Facilities:
- Basic camping facilities, including communal bathrooms and showers.
- Self-catering kitchen area for preparing meals.
- Designated campfire areas where guests can gather and enjoy the wilderness ambiance in the evenings.
- Well-maintained grounds, with plenty of shade from acacia trees, provide a peaceful setting for campers.
- Wildlife: Being located within the park, the campsite offers an authentic safari experience, with wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and zebras often seen roaming nearby. Occasionally, you may hear the roar of lions or spot other wildlife like buffaloes from the campsite.
Why Choose Ndololo Public Campsite?
- Affordability: As a public campsite managed by KWS, Ndololo is one of the most affordable accommodation options within Tsavo East, making it accessible for budget travelers or those who prefer a more rustic experience.
- Proximity to Wildlife: The campsite’s location within the park means that wildlife is abundant, offering an authentic bush experience. It is not uncommon for wildlife to wander close to the campsite, giving guests the thrill of being deep in the African wilderness.
- Self-Catering Option: Ndololo is perfect for travelers who prefer the flexibility of self-catering. The campsite provides basic cooking facilities, allowing guests to prepare their meals or bring a personal chef or cook.
What to Expect
- Camping Experience: The campsite is designed for those who enjoy traditional camping. Visitors need to bring their own camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking utensils. There are no luxury amenities, but the atmosphere is serene and offers a true connection to nature.
- Wildlife Viewing: From the campsite, it’s easy to embark on early morning and late afternoon game drives with excellent chances of spotting Tsavo’s famous “red elephants,” lions, buffaloes, and a variety of antelopes and birds.
- Safety: While the campsite is not fenced, KWS rangers patrol the area regularly, ensuring the safety of campers. However, it is important to follow park rules and guidelines regarding wildlife encounters, such as not leaving food out that might attract animals.
How to Get There
Ndololo Campsite is accessible via the Voi Gate in Tsavo East National Park, approximately a 4-5 hour drive from Nairobi. Visitors must have a 4×4 vehicle for access, as the park’s roads can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
What to Pack
- Camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, cooking utensils)
- Food supplies (for self-catering)
- Water and other beverages
- Warm clothing for early mornings and evenings
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Binoculars and camera for wildlife viewing
- First aid kit and essential medications
Pros
- Affordable safari accommodation within the park
- Authentic camping experience with direct access to wildlife
- Perfect for budget-conscious travelers
- Located close to major game-viewing areas
Cons
- Basic facilities (no luxury amenities)
- Visitors must be fully self-sufficient (bring own gear and supplies)
- No fencing, so close wildlife encounters can occur
Upgrade options;
- Sentrim Tsavo East Lodge: A comfortable, budget-friendly lodge located near the park’s Voi Gate. It offers spacious tents with ensuite bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the surrounding wildlife. Meals are served buffet-style, offering a variety of local and international dishes.
- Ashnil Aruba Lodge: Located near the Aruba Dam, this midrange lodge provides a more luxurious experience. It features comfortable rooms with private terraces overlooking the savannah, a swimming pool, and gourmet dining options.
- Satao Camp: A high-end tented camp offering a luxury safari experience. The large, well-appointed tents come with ensuite bathrooms and are set around a waterhole frequented by wildlife. The camp offers personalized service and excellent cuisine.
Inclusions
- Transport in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing.
- All park entry fees to Tsavo East National Park.
- Full-board accommodation (meals included) at your selected lodge or camp.
- Experienced safari guide for all game drives.
- Bottled water during the safari.
- Unlimited game drives throughout the safari.
Exclusions
- Drinks (sodas, alcoholic beverages) and items of personal nature.
- Tips for the guide/driver and hotel staff.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Optional activities (e.g., nature walks or birdwatching tours).
- Laundry services.
What to Pack
- Light clothing for daytime, as it can get warm (shorts, t-shirts, light trousers).
- Warm layers for early morning and evening game drives (jacket or sweater).
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect from the sun.
- Insect repellent for mosquitoes and other insects.
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Reusable water bottle (water will be provided but it’s good to have your own bottle).
What to Expect to See
- Elephants: Tsavo East is famous for its “red elephants,” which roll in the red volcanic soil, giving them a unique reddish appearance.
- Big Cats: You may encounter lions and, if lucky, cheetahs or even leopards.
- Buffaloes and Rhinos: While rhino sightings are rare, the park is home to the black rhino, and buffaloes are common throughout the park.
- Birds: With over 500 bird species, expect to see ostriches, vultures, and eagles. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy spotting the African fish eagle, secretary bird, and migratory species.
- Hippos and Crocodiles: Particularly around the Galana River and Aruba Dam.
- Scenic Landmarks: Don’t miss the Yatta Plateau, the world’s longest lava flow, and Lugard Falls, where the Galana River cascades through rocky rapids.
How to Plan Your Safari
- Book in Advance: Due to Tsavo East’s popularity, it’s advisable to book your safari at least a few weeks in advance to secure your preferred dates and accommodation.
- Consider the Season: The dry season (June to October) is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. However, the park can be visited year-round.
- Choose Your Accommodation: Depending on your budget, select from a variety of lodges or tented camps. Tsavo Kenya offers flexible options to suit different preferences.
- Prepare for an Early Start: The safari begins early, so be prepared to leave Nairobi at 6:00 AM to maximize your time in the park.
- Consult with Your Guide: Your safari guide will offer expert knowledge on the park’s wildlife, so feel free to ask questions and plan your game drives around animal activity.
Conclusion
A 2-day safari to Tsavo East National Park with Tsavo Kenya is a perfect way to experience one of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this adventure offers unparalleled game viewing, breathtaking landscapes, and comfortable accommodations. By choosing TsavoKenya.org, you ensure a well-planned, expertly guided safari that highlights the very best of what Tsavo East has to offer.