National Parks in Kenya: Complete List, Fees and What Each Is Known For
Kenya protects a remarkable share of its land for wildlife, and the names on the map can be confusing. Is…
Destination guide
Southern Kenya: the complete guide
Southern Kenya is the land of big elephants, red earth and Africa's highest free-standing mountain, Kilimanjaro, rising on the Tanzanian border. Amboseli, Tsavo East and Tsavo West are all within a day's drive of Nairobi or Mombasa, and they combine well with a beach stay.
Here is what each park offers, and how to combine them.
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01
The parks in this region
Amboseli National Park
Large elephant herds, Kilimanjaro views and swamps.
Tsavo East National Park
Kenya's largest park, with red elephants and the Galana River.
Tsavo West National Park
Volcanic hills, Mzima Springs and rhino sanctuary.
02
Best time to visit
June to October
Great
Dry season with the best game viewing.
January to February
Great
Clear skies and good views of Kilimanjaro.
March to May
Green/Wet
Long rains.
November to December
Good
Short rains.
03
Combining the parks
Amboseli and Tsavo West make a good 4-day trip from Nairobi. Add Tsavo East if heading to the coast, and finish at Diani or Watamu.
04
Frequently asked questions
Which park is best for elephants?
Amboseli is known for its large tuskers and open views, and Tsavo East for its red-dusted herds.
Can I see Kilimanjaro?
Yes, from Amboseli on clear mornings, especially in the dry months.
Destinations in Southern Kenya
Amboseli National ParkAmboseli is the place for elephants walking across open plains with Mount Kilimanjaro behind them. It is flat, easy to…
Maasai Mara National ReserveKenya’s most famous reserve is known for resident lion prides, cheetah, huge elephant herds and, from roughly July to October,…
Tsavo East National ParkTsavo East is one of Kenya’s largest parks: red-dust elephants, big lion prides, the Galana River and wide open bush.…
Tsavo West National ParkTsavo West is more varied than its neighbour, with Mzima Springs, lava flows, rocky hills and the Ngulia rhino sanctuary.…Read before you go
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