Alongside Tsavo East national park, Tsavo West National Park was formulated in 1948 and as such is among the oldest national parks in Kenya. Just like Tsavo East national park it was named after Tsavo river which is the main river that drains the park. Tsavo West national park is commonly known as the“ Land of Lava, Springs, Man-eaters and Magical Sunsets”. A name that stems from the park’s history of being home to man-eating lions that killed a quite number of people during the colonial era when the construction of the Railway line and the highway was underway. As expected, it is the second largest national park in Kenya measuring 9,065 square kilometers comparable to Tsavo East national park, the largest national park in kenya, which measures 13,747 square kilometers. The park lies south East from Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, approximately 240km. To access the park, one can use road preferably the 4*4 landcruiser tourist vehicles or by air landing in the various airstrips such Kamboyo, Kilaguni, Tsavo Gate, Jipe, Kasigau, Finch Hottons, Ziwani, and Maktau airstrips found in the park.
Major Attractions
Tsavo West National Park arguably is one of the most scenic parks in Kenya and here is why:
The Mzima springs
The Mzima springs continually is a marvel for many tourists. Here you see gallons of crystal clear water gushing out from underground of the parched lava rocks.
Shetani lava flows
Shetani lava flows is another spectacular attraction in Tsavo west national park. It is believed to have been formed about 500 years ago and the name Shetani is taken up from the Swahili translation of the word “devil”. The Locals believed that it was the devil himself emerging from the earth when they first saw ‘fire’ erupting and ‘flowing’ on the ground. Shetani Lava flow can be seen about 4 km west from the Chyulu gate of Tsavo West National Park by those in transit to Amboseli by the road. Shetani caves which were formed as a result of volcanic activity are also found near the lava flows.
Ngulia sanctuary
Ngulia sanctuary and the African #Big5 also forms part of the key attractions in Tsavo west. Ngulia rhino sanctuary is located at the base of Ngulia hill and is home to a number of endangered rhinos which are kept and bred by the Kenya wildlife service and the African wildlife foundation. The big five wildlife and other game animals draw a large number of tourists to the park. Some wildlife species guests enjoy during game drives include: elephant, rhino, hippos, lions, cheetah, leopards, buffalos among many others.
Poachers lookout
Another marvel in Tsavo West National park is the Poachers lookout. This is a hill found at the center of the park giving one a 360 degrees view of the park. It was named after its popular use by the poachers to view the wildlife at the park. Despite the phasing out of poaching, the hill has retained its name and popularity. Other popular activities in the park include guided nature walks and hiking.
Popular Activities at the park
Game Drives: Witness a dazzling array of wildlife on a thrilling Tsavo West safari. The park is home to an abundance of animals including lions, elephants, cheetahs, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, and giraffes. Explore the park in a 4WD vehicle or on foot with a knowledgeable guide for an unforgettable experience
Explore the Mzima Springs: Explore the Mzima Springs, a crystal-clear natural spring that gushes out over 250 liters of water per second. This vibrant ecosystem is a haven for a variety of wildlife including hippos, crocodiles, fish eagles, and more!
Visit Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary: Embark on a guided tour of the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, a critical conservation area established to protect the endangered black rhinoceros. Learn more about these magnificent creatures and the efforts being taken to preserve them.
Hike the Shetani Lava Flow: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the Shetani Lava Flow, a vast solidified lava field formed by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. The stark, yet beautiful landscape offers a unique perspective of the park’s geology.
Bird Watching: With over 400 species of birds recorded in Tsavo West, the park is a paradise for bird watchers.
Tsavo west is truly a magical wilderness wonder and for adventure lovers it sure is a must visit destination. The presence of great accommodation options also makes a Safari to Tsavo west a no brainer. For inquiries on Tsavo West Safari talk to us via info@aboundafricatours.com
