Tsavo East and Tsavo West are two neighboring national parks located in southeastern Kenya. Collectively, they form one of the largest wildlife conservation areas in Africa, known as Tsavo Conservation Area. Here’s some information about each of these parks:
Tsavo East National Park:
Tsavo East is the larger of the two parks, covering an area of about 11,747 square kilometers (4,536 square miles). It was established in 1948 and is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Kenya. The park is renowned for its vast open savannah plains, lava flows, and the Galana River, which flows through the park. Tsavo East is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, leopards, and various species of antelope. The park is also famous for its large herds of red elephants, which get their color from the dust and red soil in the area.
Tsavo West National Park:
Tsavo West is slightly smaller than Tsavo East, covering an area of approximately 7,065 square kilometers (2,732 square miles). It was established in 1949, making it nearly as old as its eastern counterpart. Tsavo West is characterized by diverse landscapes, including open grasslands, volcanic hills, dense forests, and the stunning Mzima Springs. The springs are a major attraction, as they provide a source of fresh water and support a wide variety of aquatic life, including hippos and crocodiles. Tsavo West is also known for its dramatic scenery, with notable landmarks such as the Chyulu Hills, Shetani Lava Flows, and the enchanting Roaring Rocks.