The landscape in Tsavo is flatter and drier than in Tsavo West, despite the fact that one of Kenya's largest rivers flows through the middle of the park. The main track through the park follows the Galana River from Tsavo Gate to the Sala gate. The park headquarters, where you can charge and buy smartcards, is at Voi Gate.

Animal Spotting in Tsavo East National Park

Much of the wildlife spotting is concentrated on the Galana River, which cuts a green gush across the dusty orange plains of the park and supports plentiful crocs and hippos. There are several places along the flat topped escarpments lining the river where you can get out of your vehicle, with due caution of course. Most scenic are Lugards Falls, a wonderful landscape of water-sculptured channels, and crocodiles Point, where you may see hippos and crocs.

There are usually armed guards around, but you shouldn't get too close to the water. Kudus, waterbucks and dik-dik are common along the river banks. Also of interest is the Mudanda Rock, towering over a natural dam near the Manyani gate, which attracts elephants in the dry season.

Large herds of RED elephants

The bush is thinner than in Tsavo West, so wildlife is easier top spot, although it's not as plentiful. The rolling hills in the south of the park are home to large herds of elephants, usually covered in red dust. The action is concentrated the waterhole at Voi safari lodge, and the Kanderi Swamp, which is home to a profusion of wildlife and the public campsite.

You can expect elephants to stroll through the campsite in the evenings. Further into the park, 30km east of Voi gate is the Aruba Dam built across the Voi River, which also sees loads of wildlife. A lodge has been under construction here for some time.

Your security issues at Tsavo East Park

The area north of the Galana River is dominated by the Yatta Escarpment, a vast prehistoric lava flow. This area has recently been opened up for tourist after a long time closure due to insecurity. Check at the gates the prevailing situation before proceeding here.

Endangered Hirola in Tsavo East animal Park

Until their partial translocation to Tsavo East, the sole surviving population of Hirola antelope was found near Kenya Somalia border in the south Tana River and Garissa districts. Intense poaching (for meat) and habitat destruction have reduced their numbers from an estimated 14,000 in 1976 to a pitiful 450 today, 100 of them being in Tsavo East. There are also around 48 black rhinos, moved here from Nairobi National Park, although how long they last in this hard-to- police sanctuary remains to be seen.

Translocations of elephants to the park

On the positive side, the recent translocation of 400 elephants from the Shimba Hills National Reserve has replenished the populations depleted by poaching, and should herald the start of efforts to rehabilitate the wild northern sector of the park and open it up for tourist activity.