Flying safaris are a popular and convenient way to explore Tsavo East, offering quick access to the park’s many attractions, including Aruba Dam, Mudanda Rock, and Yatta Plateau. For those looking to experience the park from the air, Tsavo East has several airstrips that allow visitors to take charter flights from Nairobi, Mombasa, or other nearby regions.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the airstrips within Tsavo East National Park, providing details about their locations, accessibility, and role in the flying safari experience.
1. Overview of Flying Safaris in Tsavo East
Flying safaris are an excellent option for visitors who want to avoid long road trips and explore the park from the air. These safaris are particularly beneficial for those who are short on time or want to explore multiple parks in a short period.
Flights to Tsavo East can be organized from Nairobi, Mombasa, or nearby airstrips such as Amboseli or Chyulu Hills, depending on the traveler’s preference. The airstrips in Tsavo East serve both charter flights and scheduled flights, allowing for flexibility in safari planning.
2. Tsavo East Airstrips
Tsavo East National Park is served by several airstrips located throughout the park. These airstrips are mainly used for charter flights operated by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) approved companies, and some are also used for safari lodges with direct flight access. Here’s an overview of the main airstrips within Tsavo East:
A. Voi Airstrip (Voi Town)
- Location: Situated at Voi Town, this is the main airstrip used for accessing Tsavo East National Park.
- Coordinates: Latitude 3.3814, Longitude 38.2297
- Distance to Tsavo East: 12 km from the main entrance to Tsavo East (Voi Gate).
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by vehicle from Voi Gate, with about 15 minutes drive to the park entrance.
- Facilities: The Voi Airstrip is a small but well-maintained airstrip that handles domestic flights and charter flights. Kenya Wildlife Service and private operators run regular flights from Nairobi and Mombasa.
- Usage: Primarily used for safaris heading into Tsavo East, with options for quick transfers to luxury lodges and camps inside the park. Flights are typically scheduled in the morning or afternoon.
B. Aruba Airstrip
- Location: Near the Aruba Dam, one of Tsavo East’s key wildlife viewing areas.
- Coordinates: Latitude 3.2070, Longitude 38.1364
- Distance to Tsavo East: About 5 km from Aruba Dam, a central attraction in the park.
- Accessibility: Accessible from the Aruba Dam, which is popular for wildlife photography, especially for elephants, buffaloes, and zebras.
- Facilities: A smaller airstrip used primarily for charter flights to the Tsavo East area. Typically serves as the entry point for safaris focused around Aruba Dam and Mudanda Rock.
- Usage: Suitable for safari-goers who wish to focus on specific attractions such as the Aruba Dam, Mudanda Rock, and surrounding areas of Tsavo East.
C. Mudanda Airstrip
- Location: Situated near Mudanda Rock, a popular area for game viewing and hiking within Tsavo East.
- Coordinates: Latitude 3.2611, Longitude 38.2189
- Distance to Tsavo East: About 10 km from the main entrance of the park, with easy access to Mudanda Rock and Aruba Dam.
- Accessibility: Close to Mudanda Rock, where guests can enjoy stunning views of the park and its abundant wildlife, especially the elephants that frequently visit the nearby dam.
- Facilities: Mudanda Airstrip is smaller compared to Voi Airstrip, but it provides access to the more remote areas of Tsavo East and is well-connected to lodges like Satao Camp and Voi Safari Lodge.
- Usage: Often used for visitors focusing on Mudanda Rock and the eastern parts of Tsavo East, especially those staying in campsites and luxury camps.
D. Sala Gate Airstrip
- Location: Located near Sala Gate, a quieter and less trafficked entrance to Tsavo East.
- Coordinates: Latitude 3.5921, Longitude 38.1953
- Distance to Tsavo East: A short drive from the Sala Gate, allowing easy access to the park’s southern and central regions.
- Accessibility: Ideal for those looking to explore the more remote areas of Tsavo East, including the southern parts near the Tiva River.
- Facilities: Sala Gate Airstrip serves charter flights and is perfect for visitors seeking more exclusive safaris. It is equipped with basic facilities and is mainly used for private safari groups.
- Usage: Popular for guests staying in exclusive lodges or luxury tented camps located in the southern parts of Tsavo East.
3. Booking a Flight to Tsavo East
Flights to Tsavo East airstrips can be booked through Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) approved safari companies or directly through charter flight operators.
Booking Process:
- Charter Flights: Most visitors use charter flights from Nairobi or Mombasa, which can be booked in advance through KWS approved operators.
- Flight Times: Flights typically depart in the morning or afternoon, depending on the season. Early morning flights provide more time for game drives and activities upon arrival.
- Lodging Transfer: Flights often include a seamless transfer from the airstrip to the respective lodge or camp, where guests can start their safari adventure immediately.
4. Benefits of Flying Safaris to Tsavo East
Opting for a flying safari to Tsavo East comes with several benefits:
- Time Efficiency: Flying directly to one of the Tsavo East airstrips saves valuable time, allowing guests to enjoy longer game drives and more activities in the park rather than spending time on long road journeys.
- Scenic Views: The aerial view of Tsavo East’s expansive landscapes provides a unique perspective of the park’s diverse wildlife, including herds of elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes, set against the backdrop of volcanic hills, savannahs, and waterholes.
- Access to Remote Areas: Flying directly to remote airstrips such as Mudanda, Aruba, and Sala Gate provides access to less-visited parts of the park, where visitors can enjoy a more exclusive and private safari experience.
5. Accommodation Options for Flying Safari Visitors
Once you arrive at any of the airstrips, you will have access to various accommodation options, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and campsites. Some of the best places to stay include:
- Satao Camp: Known for its unique tented accommodation and proximity to Mudanda Rock.
- Voi Safari Lodge: A mid-range lodge with an amazing view of the park and direct access from Voi Airstrip.
- Aruba Lodge: An affordable lodge with good game viewing opportunities, especially for elephants.
- Taita Hills Sanctuary: Offers luxury accommodation in private settings, easily accessible by flights into Voi or Mudanda Airstrips.
6. Conclusion
Flying safaris to Tsavo East provide visitors with an unmatched opportunity to experience the vast beauty of one of Kenya’s largest and most diverse parks. With its several well-maintained airstrips, easy access to wildlife-rich areas, and exceptional lodging options, Tsavo East is a prime destination for those seeking an aerial adventure in one of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves. Whether you’re flying into Voi, Aruba, Mudanda, or Sala Gate, a flying safari promises a comfortable, scenic, and unforgettable experience in the heart of Tsavo East National Park.