Tsavo West

240 Kms from Nairobi and at an altitude of 500-6,000 Ft, Tsavo West is an important historic Monument as a major battleground in World War I where British and German troops battled for supremacy. Covering an area of 9,065 Sq, Kms, the Park is easy to reach, located off the main Nairobi-Mombasa road.

It has tremendous views with diverse habitats ranging from mountains, river forest, lakes and wooded grassland. It is full of plains game while leopards, cheetahs, buffalos, rhinos, elephants, giraffe, zebra and lions patrol their territories. The rivers have lots crocodiles and other small mammals like mongoose, hyrax, dikdik and the nocturnal porcupines abundant. Like Tsavo East it was opened in 1948.

Bordering with the Southern Serengeti plains in Tanzania, it is an excellent park for Kenya safari visitors who enjoy walking, offering a number of nature trails and the opportunity to explore the Chaimu volcanic crater. Mzima Springs is a star attraction, a pool of natural spring water with underwater viewing hides for observing hippos. Accommodations are available in lodges and camps and advance booking is highly recommended.

Chyulu Hills National Park is an extension of Tsavo West National Park. It was opened in January 1983 to protect its unique habitat and role as a vital water catchment area.

The Chyulus are a volcanic mountain ranges with a mix of volcanic cones and barren lava flows, of which the most interesting is Shetani, meaning “Devil” in Swahili. Buffalos, zebras, giraffes, Oryx, lions, leopards and many species of birds and plants are at home here.

You can take part here in activities like horse riding, hiking, camping, archeological or geological safaris with caves to explore. There are fantastic views across Amboseli and Tsavo Plains.