Tsavo West National Park

Land of Lava, Springs, Man-eaters & Magical Sunsets

The breathtaking Mzima Springs is one of Tsavo West’s crown jewels — a shimmering oasis where millions of gallons of crystal-clear water gush from beneath parched lava rocks. This natural wonder creates a lush haven of palm-fringed pools and vibrant life, framed by rolling hills, lava plains, and the vast African savannah stretching endlessly to the horizon.

Tsavo West National Park, Kenya’s second-largest protected area, is steeped in both beauty and legend. It is famously home to the man-eater lions of Tsavo, whose terrifying attacks in 1898 halted the construction of the Kenya–Uganda Railway and etched their story into history as one of Africa’s most haunting true tales.

The park also bears the marks of history from the First World War, where the East African Campaign unfolded across its wild terrain. Fought in the untamed “Bundu”, dense bush and thorny wilderness, this campaign was one of the most unusual of the war, blending colonial military tactics with local guerilla warfare.

Attractions & Activities

Discover the wild beauty of Tsavo West, one of Kenya’s most scenic and diverse national parks. Home to the renowned Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, this protected haven shelters a growing population of the highly endangered black rhino, symbolizing Kenya’s enduring conservation success.

At the southern edge of the park lies the breathtaking Lake Jipe, shimmering along the Kenya–Tanzania border. The lake is rich with aquatic life, and its tranquil shores attract hundreds of bird species, making it a must-visit paradise for bird watchers and nature photographers.

Set out on unforgettable game drives across Tsavo West’s rugged landscapes and rolling plains. Here, every turn reveals new wonders — from leopards, cheetahs, lions, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, to the graceful giraffes, zebras, oryx, dik-diks, lesser kudus, and even the nocturnal porcupine. With over 600 recorded bird species, Tsavo West promises an unrivaled safari experience for both wildlife lovers and birding enthusiasts.

The park’s stunning terrain hosts more than 1,000 plant species, creating a vivid mosaic of bushland, open grasslands, and acacia woodlands adorned with baobabs, ivory palms, tamarinds, doum palms, saltbush, and fig trees. Every landscape tells a story of resilience and beauty.

Marvel at the mysterious Shetani Lava Flow, a vast expanse of black volcanic rock formed over 200 years ago. Local legend claims this fiery spectacle was the work of the devil himself — “Shetani” meaning “devil” in Swahili. For breathtaking views, climb up to the Poacher’s Lookout or the Roaring Rocks, where panoramic vistas stretch across Tsavo’s golden plains and wildlife roams freely below.

Don’t miss the majestic Five Sisters Hills, five identical volcanic domes that rise gracefully from the plains, creating one of Tsavo’s most photographed backdrops. Nearby, the striking Chaimu Hill, a solitary volcanic cone of black ash, offers an adventurous hike and a perfect spot for scenic photography.