A game drive in Tsavo East National Park, located in southeastern Kenya, is a journey through one of the largest and oldest parks in the country, covering approximately 13,747 square kilometers. With its expansive open plains, iconic red elephants, and an impressive diversity of wildlife, Tsavo East is a premier destination for anyone seeking an authentic safari experience. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or a first-time visitor, the park offers a truly unique and unforgettable adventure. The guide below provides detailed tips on planning and making the most of your Tsavo East game drive.
Game Drive Routes in Tsavo East
1. Voi Gate to Aruba Dam
- Starting at the Voi Gate, this popular route takes you through the open plains of Tsavo East to the Aruba Dam, a man-made dam that attracts large numbers of wildlife.
- Wildlife to Expect: Elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and a variety of antelopes.
- Best Time: Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for capturing wildlife gathering around the dam to drink.
2. Galana River Circuit
- This route follows the Galana River, offering excellent views of hippos and crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. The lush vegetation along the river also attracts many other species, including elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes.
- Wildlife to Expect: Hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, and elephants.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for wildlife and landscape photography with optimal light conditions.
3. Mudanda Rock and Lugard’s Falls Loop
- This loop takes you to Mudanda Rock and Lugard’s Falls, two of the park’s most scenic spots. Mudanda Rock is a perfect place to watch elephants and buffaloes, while Lugard’s Falls offers dramatic river scenery.
- Wildlife to Expect: Large elephant herds, buffaloes, giraffes, and diverse birdlife.
- Best Time: Mid-morning and late afternoon, as animals gather around water sources.
Tsavo East Safari Game Drive Vehicles
1. 4×4 Safari Land Cruisers
- Overview: The 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser is the most common and preferred vehicle for game drives in Tsavo East. Known for its durability and ability to handle rough terrain, this vehicle is well-suited for navigating the park’s dirt roads, riverbeds, and open plains.
- Key Features:
- Pop-up roof: Allows passengers to stand up and view wildlife from all angles while protecting them from the sun.
- All-terrain tires and suspension: Ensures a smooth ride across uneven terrain, making it ideal for Tsavo’s often rugged environment.
- High ground clearance: This feature enables the vehicle to traverse rocky areas and cross small streams with ease.
- Why It’s Ideal: Land Cruisers are perfect for longer game drives and exploring deeper into the park due to their comfort and off-road capabilities. They can also handle the park’s famous red soil, which can become slippery after rains.
2. Open-Sided Safari Vehicles
- Overview: These vehicles provide a more immersive experience, allowing for unrestricted views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife.
- Key Features:
- No doors or low doors: This setup provides completely unobstructed views, which is ideal for photography and a more intimate experience with nature.
- Elevated seating: Ensures all passengers have clear views of the animals and surroundings.
- Removable side covers: These are often used to protect passengers from dust and wind but can be easily removed for better visibility.
- Why It’s Ideal: Open-sided vehicles are perfect for photography enthusiasts who need quick access to their gear and don’t want windows or doors obstructing their shots. These vehicles are commonly used in private conservancies or less crowded parts of Tsavo.
3. Extended Safari Minibuses (Vans)
- Overview: Safari minibuses, typically Toyota Hiace or similar models, are budget-friendly alternatives for game drives. They are commonly used for group tours and short safaris.
- Key Features:
- Pop-up roofs: Like the Land Cruisers, these vehicles often come with pop-up roofs, allowing tourists to stand and get a 360-degree view.
- Spacious interiors: These vans are ideal for families or small groups, providing ample space for passengers gear.
- Moderate off-road capability: While they can handle most roads in Tsavo East, they are less suitable for extremely rough or muddy conditions compared to 4×4 vehicles.
- Why It’s Ideal: For budget-conscious travelers, safari minibuses provide a comfortable, cost-effective way to experience the park. They work best on the park’s main tracks but are less suited for off-the-beaten-path adventures.
4. Customized Photography Safari Vehicles
- Overview: These vehicles are specially outfitted for professional photographers or serious photography enthusiasts.
- Key Features:
- Mounts and beanbags: Built-in or removable mounts stabilize cameras for sharp photos even when the vehicle is moving.
- Swivel seats: Allow photographers to easily change angles without having to reposition themselves or their equipment.
- Ample storage: Extra space for tripods, lenses, and other gear is provided, ensuring everything remains safe and organized.
- Battery charging ports: To keep equipment charged throughout the day, especially during full-day safaris.
- Why It’s Ideal: These vehicles are designed to provide photographers with the best possible conditions for shooting wildlife. They ensure stability, comfort, and unobstructed views, making them perfect for a full-day game drive focused on capturing wildlife shots.
5. Closed Roof Vehicles
- Overview: While less common, some safari operators offer closed-roof vehicles with large, sliding windows that allow for wildlife viewing and photography.
- Key Features:
- Large sliding windows: Ideal for quick and easy photo-taking without the need to stand or reposition.
- Climate control: These vehicles often have air-conditioning, which is useful during hotter days.
- Why It’s Ideal: Closed-roof vehicles provide more comfort and protection from the elements, making them ideal for families or those who prefer a more enclosed and controlled environment.
Other Considerations for Choosing the Right Safari Vehicle:
- Group Size: Larger groups or families may prefer extended safari vans, while smaller groups or solo travelers might opt for 4×4 Land Cruisers for a more personalized experience.
- Terrain: If you plan to explore remote areas or travel during the rainy season, a 4×4 vehicle is essential due to the park’s rugged terrain and potential muddy conditions.
- Photography Needs: For photographers, open-sided vehicles or customized photography vehicles offer the best access to the wildlife and allow for quick response times to capture action shots.
- Comfort: For longer game drives, especially in the heat, choosing a vehicle with good suspension, comfortable seating, and adequate ventilation is crucial.