Best Places to Visit in Tsavo | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Tsavo Travel Guide
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Welcome to Tsavo, Kenya! Located in the southeastern part of the country, Tsavo is one of the largest national parks in Africa, spanning over 22,000 square kilometers. This vast wilderness is divided into two sections, Tsavo East and Tsavo West, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. Tsavo is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the famous "Big Five" - lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. In addition to the incredible wildlife, Tsavo is also home to stunning landscapes, such as the red-hued soil of the Chyulu Hills and the dramatic lava flows of the Shetani lava flow. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Africa, Tsavo is a destination that will leave you in awe.
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Best Places To Visit in Tsavo
1. Nairobi, Kenya: Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and is known for its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and stunning wildlife. The city is home to the Nairobi National Park, which is a must-visit for anyone interested in seeing lions, giraffes, and other African animals in their natural habitat. Other popular attractions include the Karen Blixen Museum, the Nairobi National Museum, and the Maasai Market, where visitors can shop for traditional African crafts and souvenirs.
2. Mombasa, Kenya: Mombasa is a coastal city in Kenya that is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the Fort Jesus Museum, which tells the story of the city's colonial past. Other popular attractions include the Mombasa Marine National Park, which is home to a variety of marine life, and the Haller Park, which is a nature reserve that is home to giraffes, zebras, and other animals.
3. Lamu, Kenya: Lamu is a small island off the coast of Kenya that is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the Lamu Museum, which tells the story of the island's Swahili culture. Other popular activities include sailing on a traditional dhow, visiting the Shela Beach, and watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
4. Kisumu, Kenya: Kisumu is a city in western Kenya that is known for its beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and friendly people. Visitors can explore the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including impalas, zebras, and giraffes. Other popular attractions include the Kisumu Museum, which tells the story of the city's history and culture, and the Dunga Hill Camp, which offers stunning views of Lake Victoria.
5. Eldoret, Kenya: Eldoret is a town in western Kenya that is known for its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Kipchoge Keino Stadium, which is named after the famous Kenyan athlete, and see the Eldoret Museum, which tells the story of the town's history and culture. Other popular activities include hiking in the nearby hills, visiting the nearby Kerio Valley National Reserve, and shopping for traditional African crafts and souvenirs.
6. Nakuru, Kenya: Nakuru is a city in central Kenya that is known for its stunning wildlife, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Lake Nakuru National Park, which is home to a variety of animals, including flamingos, rhinos, and lions. Other popular attractions include the Menengai Crater, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the Hyrax Hill Museum, which tells the story of the city's prehistoric past.
7. Malindi, Kenya: Malindi is a coastal town in Kenya that is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Visitors can explore the Gede Ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the Vasco da Gama Pillar, which marks the spot where the famous explorer landed in 1498. Other popular activities include snorkeling in the nearby Marine National Park, visiting the Malindi Museum, and shopping for traditional African crafts and souvenirs.
8. Naivasha, Kenya: Naivasha is a town in central Kenya that is known for its stunning scenery, beautiful wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Hell's Gate National Park, which is home to a variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, and baboons. Other popular attractions include the Lake Naivasha, which is a popular spot for birdwatching and boat rides, and the Crescent Island Game Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
9. Kitale, Kenya: Kitale is a town in western Kenya that is known for its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Mount Elgon National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, and monkeys. Other popular attractions include the Kitale Museum, which tells the story of the town's history and culture, and the Saiwa Swamp National Park, which is home to a variety of rare animals, including the Sitatunga antelope.
10. Tsavo, Kenya: Tsavo is a national park in Kenya that is known for its stunning wildlife, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Tsavo East National Park, which is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Other popular attractions include the Tsavo West National Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the Mzima Springs, which is a popular spot for birdwatching and picnics.
Hotels Map Of Tsavo
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Food & Drinks To Try In Tsavo
1. Nyama Choma: This is a must-try dish in Tsavo, Kenya. It is a traditional Kenyan barbecue where various meats, such as beef, goat, or chicken, are grilled over an open fire. The meat is usually marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and served with a side of ugali (a staple cornmeal dish) and kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad).
2. Sukuma Wiki: This is a popular vegetable dish in Kenya, and Tsavo is no exception. Sukuma wiki is made from collard greens or kale, sauteed with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is often served as a side dish with chapati (a type of flatbread) or ugali.
3. Mandazi: If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss out on trying mandazi in Tsavo. These deep-fried doughnuts are a popular snack in Kenya. They are usually flavored with cardamom or cinnamon and can be enjoyed with a cup of chai (Kenyan tea) or kahawa (Kenyan coffee).
4. Pilau: Pilau is a fragrant rice dish that is commonly served in Tsavo. It is made with rice cooked in a flavorful broth with spices such as cumin, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. It is often accompanied by a side of kachumbari or raita (a yogurt-based sauce).
5. Matoke: Matoke is a traditional dish in Kenya made from green bananas. The bananas are peeled, boiled, and mashed, then cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is usually served as a side dish with meat or fish.
6. Tusker Beer: If you're looking for a refreshing drink in Tsavo, try Tusker Beer. It is a popular Kenyan lager that is brewed using locally sourced ingredients. It pairs well with the local cuisine and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
7. Mursik: Mursik is a traditional Kenyan fermented milk drink that is commonly consumed in Tsavo. It is made by fermenting cow's milk in a special gourd called a sotet. The milk is mixed with ash from certain plants, which gives it a unique smoky flavor. Mursik is often enjoyed as a refreshing beverage or used as a base for other drinks.
8. Uji: Uji is a traditional Kenyan porridge made from millet, sorghum, or cornmeal. It is often flavored with spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger. Uji is a popular breakfast option in Tsavo and is known for its nourishing and energizing properties.
9. Chai Masala: Chai Masala is a spiced tea that is commonly consumed in Tsavo and throughout Kenya. It is made by boiling black tea leaves with a blend of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Chai Masala is often served with milk and sugar and is a comforting and aromatic beverage.
10. Fresh Tropical Fruits: Tsavo is located in a region abundant with tropical fruits. Don't miss the opportunity to try fresh fruits such as mangoes, pineapples, papayas, and passion fruits. These fruits are incredibly flavorful and refreshing, making them a perfect snack or dessert option during your stay in Tsavo, Kenya.
Best Time To Visit Tsavo
The best time to visit Tsavo, Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is minimal rainfall. This makes it ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and are easier to spot. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to navigate through the park. However, it is important to note that Tsavo can be hot and dusty during the day, so it is advisable to bring sunscreen and protective clothing.
Flight Calendar For Tsavo
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Transportation To Tsavo
There are several transportation options to Tsavo, Kenya.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Tsavo is the Moi International Airport in Mombasa. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Tsavo's airstrip, which is located within the national park.
2. By Road: Tsavo is accessible by road from various cities in Kenya. You can hire a private car or take a taxi from Nairobi, Mombasa, or other nearby towns. The journey may take several hours, depending on the starting point.
3. By Train: The Madaraka Express train operates between Nairobi and Mombasa, with a stop at Voi, which is close to Tsavo. From Voi, you can arrange for a taxi or private car to take you to Tsavo.
4. By Safari Vehicle: Many tour operators offer safari packages that include transportation to Tsavo. These vehicles are specially designed for wildlife viewing and can be a convenient and comfortable option for reaching Tsavo.
It is recommended to plan your transportation in advance and check for any updates or changes in schedules, especially for flights and trains.