Tsavo East and West National Parks, together forming one of the largest wildlife conservation areas in the world, offer a variety of safari experiences. Tsavo East and West National Parks are two of Kenya’s largest and oldest national parks.
Prices vary based on the specific park visited, duration, accommodation type, and season.
Key features:
- Vast savannah ecosystems
- Home to diverse wildlife, including the “Big Five” (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo)
- Red-colored elephants due to dust-bathing in the area’s red soil
- Scenic landscapes including the Yatta Plateau and Lugard Falls
Tsavo East:
- Larger and more arid of the two
- Known for its large elephant herds
- Galana River runs through it
Tsavo West:
- More varied topography with hills and volcanic cones|
- Features Mzima Springs, a series of natural springs
- Home to a black rhino sanctuary
- Historical significance:
Site of the infamous “Man-Eaters of Tsavo” incident in 1898, where two lions killed numerous railway workers.
Package Types
1. Day Trip (Usually to Tsavo East)
**Duration**: 1 day
**Price Range**: $150 – $250 per person
Typically Includes:
- Round-trip transport from Mombasa or nearby coast
- Game drive
- Lunch
2. Short Safari (Tsavo East or West)
**Duration**: 2 days, 1 night
**Price Range**: $250 – $450 per person
**Typically Includes**:
- Transport from Mombasa or Nairobi
- Accommodation (mid-range)
- Meals
- Game drives
3. Standard Combined Safari (Tsavo East and West)
**Duration**: 3 days, 2 nights
**Price Range**: $400 – $700 per person
**Typically Includes**:
- Transport from Mombasa or Nairobi
- Accommodation (mid-range)
- Meals
- Park entrance fees
- Game drives in both parks
4. Extended Tsavo Experience
**Duration**: 4-5 days
**Price Range**: $700 – $1200 per person
**Typically Includes**:
- Transport from Mombasa or Nairobi
- Accommodation (mix of mid-range and luxury)
- All meals
- Multiple game drives in both parks
- Possible additional activities (e.g., walking safaris, night drives)
5. Luxury Tsavo Safari
**Duration**: 5-7 days
**Price Range**: $1500 – $3000+ per person
**Typically Includes**:
 Luxury lodge or tented camp accommodation
- All meals and some drinks
- Private game drives
- Flights between parks or to/from Nairobi (in some cases)
- Additional activities (e.g., bush breakfasts, sundowners)
Factors Affecting Prices
1. **Season**: High season (July-October, December-February) tends to be more expensive.
2. **Accommodation Type**: Options range from basic camps to luxury lodges.
3. **Park Choice**: Tsavo West is often slightly more expensive due to its landscape and exclusivity.
4. **Transport Type**: Driving vs. flying between locations.
5. **Group Size**: Larger groups may get discounts.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Park Fees
- Tips for guides and staff (customary)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees for entering Kenya
Unique Experiences (May Incur Additional Costs)
- Visit to Mzima Springs (Tsavo West)
- Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary (Tsavo West)
- Viewing of the Yatta Plateau (Tsavo East)
- Lugard Falls (Tsavo East)
Booking Tips
1. Book in advance, especially for high season.
2. Consider combining Tsavo with coastal stays for a “bush and beach” experience.
3. Check what’s included in the package price, especially regarding drinks and additional activities.
4. Longer stays often offer better value per night.