Attractions in Tsavo West National Park

Top things to see in Tsavo West National Park for an unforgettable safari.

Attractions in Tsavo West National Park: Tsavo West National Park, which is commonly known as “The Land of Lava, Springs, and Man-Eaters” due to the existence of man-eating lions in the park, is amongst the most famous national parks in Kenya. It occupies approximately 9,065 square kilometres of land, which comprises half of the Tsavo Conservation Area, which is the largest game reserve in Kenya. Whereas Tsavo East National Park has a much flatter terrain compared to Tsavo West, the latter has a much more spectacular terrain that was shaped millions of years ago by geological events such as volcanic eruptions. This means that, in Tsavo West, visitors will be able to experience a unique combination of black Shetani lava fields, lush green oases, and the looming presence of Chyulu Hills.

However, what makes Tsavo West distinctively interesting are the varied ecosystems found here, which include savannahs, thickets, riverine forests, and granite inselbergs. The diversity of ecosystems makes Tsavo West home to an incredible variety of animals, such as the red-coloured elephants caused by the soils in this area, lions, leopards, and black rhinos. But Tsavo West is not just about wildlife; it is also a place where one can explore the geological history of the Earth. Tsavo West is an outdoor paradise for people who love taking photographs of the great outdoors, as well as those who want to see some of the most exotic birds.

Mzima Springs.

Mzima Springs is one of the most stunning sites in Tsavo West National Park and consists of four natural springs supplied with an enormous volume of subterranean water from the Chyulu Hills. Millions of gallons of water flow out daily through these springs, forming an oasis surrounded by raffia palms and fever trees. Hippos and crocodiles make the best use of this water source for survival within the park. The springs are renowned for the distinct underwater observation room where tourists can dive into the pool and watch the majestic weightlessness of hippos and the fast movement of barbel fish in crystal-clear water, a rare sight one would get on a regular safari experience.

The journey to Mzima Springs is equally exciting as the actual springs are. With the guidance of an armed ranger, tourists can take a walk around the pools, enjoying the sounds of birds and the playful activities of the velvet monkeys in the treetops. The difference between the barrenness and aridity of the environment and the bright colours of the lakes of Mzima is a reflection of the secrets held within the heart of the Kenyan bush. It is a place that must be visited by everyone who wants to experience the beauty of the “gentle giants” of the lake without getting too dusty during their game drive.

Shetani Lava Flow.

The Shetani lava flow is the most impressive geological formation within Tsavo West, a huge stretch of black lava rock that covers the floor of the valley. The name of the mountain comes from the Swahili word “devil”, as it was believed that the fires seen from the eruptions were caused by spirits. This volcanic terrain is relatively young, as it was formed within a few hundred years. It acts as a powerful reminder of the volcanic activity within the national park. When walking on the volcanic terrain, it feels like one has stepped into a different world altogether.

The exploration of the Shetani zone also affords visitors an opportunity to view the Shetani Caves, which are lava caves formed due to cooling lava flows. The underground tubes can serve as a fascinating experience for intrepid explorers willing to penetrate inside with the help of torchlights, allowing visitors to admire the intricate patterns carved out by the lava. For photographers, it also makes for a captivating scene, with the flowing lava serving as a striking foreground contrasted against the majestic blue peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.

Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary.

Located amidst the craggy hills of the national park is Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, an enclosed sanctuary that is used to protect the critically endangered black rhino species. It was founded back in the 1980s due to the high levels of poaching that were pushing the species towards extinction. Because black rhinos are notoriously shy and prefer thick scrubland, the sanctuary offers one of the best opportunities in Kenya to spot these prehistoric-looking browsers in a controlled yet natural environment.

The sanctuary on a Kenyan safari is best visited in the late afternoon as the sun begins to set and the rhinos emerge from the dense thicket to visit waterholes. The image of the black rhino, which has a pointed snout as a distinctive feature, feeding in front of the Ngulia Hills, serves as an example of how essential protected areas are. Apart from the reserve, another reason why Ngulia Hills gain international attention is their location on the migration route for birds from Europe and Asia between October and January each year.

Roaring Rocks and Panoramic Views.

If a visitor is on the lookout for aerial views of the Tsavo wilderness area, then a visit to Roaring Rocks cannot be avoided. The name comes from the whistle-like sounds made by the wind as it passes through the rocky crevices. A short but steep trek will present a 360-degree view of the Rhino Valley and the surrounding plains that lead to the Tsavo East area. On a good day, visitors can spot the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, snow-topped in the far distance.

The Roaring Rocks area offers ideal opportunities for sundowners, which are typical activities on safaris, whereby tourists have a drink while admiring the changing colours of the sky from purple to red hues above the African savannah. Here, one can easily spot groups of elephants grazing in the valleys below as tiny grey dots or birds flying in the thermals at eye level. The place gives one a good opportunity to contemplate the vastness of the Tsavo wilderness area.