1 / 5Tsavo National Park
Size
22,000 km²
Elevation
200 m
Entry fee
$82
Ideal stay
3 days
Established
1948
Nearest airport
Tsavo West has three airstrips within the park: Kilaguni, Finch Hattons, and Ol Donyo Wuas for charter flights; most lodges have private airstrips. Mombasa International Airport (MBA), 100 km away, is the closest commercial airport. Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), 240 km away, is Kenya's main international hub.
About Tsavo National Park
Best time to visit
Wildlife highlights
Things to do
Getting there
Nearest town: Mtito Andei, approximately 100 km from Tsavo West; Voi, 50 km from Tsavo East — both small towns with basic services. Mombasa, 100 km away, is the nearest major coastal city with full amenities and international flight connections.
Safari packages visiting Tsavo National Park
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Tsavo National Park?
Park entry fees are approximately USD 82 per adult per day and USD 41 per child (5-15 years), paid at park gates. Daily safari costs range from USD 200-400+ per person depending on accommodation level and included services. Budget safaris start at USD 661 for 3-day packages from Nairobi, while luxury options exceed USD 3,700 for multi-park combinations. Most packages include park fees, guided game drives, meals, and accommodation.
What is the best time to visit Tsavo National Park?
June to October (dry season) is optimal for wildlife viewing, when grass is short and animals congregate near water sources. January-February offers similar conditions with cooler temperatures. November-May (wet season) brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but wildlife is dispersed and some roads become difficult. Peak season (July-September) sees more visitors; consider April-May or November for better value and solitude.
What wildlife can you see at Tsavo National Park?
Tsavo hosts all Big Five mammals: lion (notably maneless males), leopard, African buffalo, African elephant (famous for red dust coloring), and black rhino at Ngulia Sanctuary. The park also supports over 500 bird species, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and warthogs. Wildlife density is lower than Maasai Mara due to the park's vast size, but herds are often larger and encounters feel more authentic.
How do you get to Tsavo National Park?
Fly into Mombasa International Airport (100 km away) or Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (240 km away). From Nairobi, drive 4-5 hours via the Nairobi-Mombasa highway to Mtito Andei Gate. From Mombasa, travel 2-3 hours to Tsavo Gate. Charter flights serve three airstrips within Tsavo West (Kilaguni, Finch Hattons, Ol Donyo Wuas) for direct lodge transfers. Most operators arrange road transfers or charter flights as part of safari packages.



