Wildlife Safari
Tsavo’s massive area and wide range of landscapes make this an ideal
place for a varied wildlife safari. The sheer space and freedom of Tsavo
lets you really explore and feel at one with this awesome wilderness.
Exploring
both parks means that your safari will take you through several very
different habitats in a single day, encountering many different species.
The
open plains are the best place to see the large herds of game. The
region is well known for its herds of "Red Elephants", their skins
stained by rich ochre dust.
The plains are also ideal for
finding Lion,
Eland, Impala, Kudu and possibly Rhinoceros. In
the forested hills, large herds of Buffalo and Giraffe are often found.
The forests of Tsavo are ideal for birding, with a fantastic range of
species recorded including a variety of weavers, hornbills, sunbirds,
rollers, and raptors.
Birders should definitely not miss the
Mzima Springs, where the plentiful supply of fresh water has created a
verdant oasis. the springs attract plenty of game, and there is an
underwater observatory that gives the visitor a unique glimpse into an
underwater world dominated by the presence of large pods of
hippopotamus. The sight of these ungainly three tonne animals gliding
gracefully through the crystal clear waters of Mzima is unforgettable.
Water
sources are always a lure for game, and the Aruba Dam is a popular
watering hole. Many of Tsavo’s camps and lodges are situated beside
waterholes that attract a procession of wildlife from the surrounding
plains.In many of these lodges, there is spectacular game viewing
available from the balconies and restaurants.
The best time to
see game is early morning and late afternoon. In the midday heat, most
animals retreat to the cool of thick undergrowth and become invisible.
Morning and afternoon game drives also allow you to witness the
unforgettable African dawn and sunsets.
The most common means of
Game viewing here is in customized vehicles, specially designed for
photography.
In many parts of the Parks, guided walks are
possible, and can be arranged through your safari operator, lodge or
camp. This is a great way to get out and explore the park and experience
the wilderness at ground level.
If you have a particular
wildlife or birding interest, look for a Safari operator who can offer
you specialized guiding and services to suit your needs.
Trekking (Foot Safari)
Some lodges and camps in both Parks organize game walks
and hikes. The wide open plains of Tsavo are ideal for game viewing on
foot. Expert guides lead these walks, giving guests a fascinating
insight into the Tsavo region, and a personal introduction to the local
wildlife.
A privately escorted foot safari is the best way to
really experience the African bush at its best. Walking through the
wilds let you explore the wild at its most pure and visceral. as you
track big game, you become aware of every sight and sound, the smell of
the earth and the touch of the wind. An expert tracker will teach you
the signs to look for, tracks- the individual tracks and spoor, and show
you how to use the wind to disguise your scent, and to move silently
through thick cover and get up close and personal with the game.
When
you are at close range your senses are heightened, and you become
increasingly aware of the animal you are watching, how it moves and
feeds, how it reacts to its environment. If the animal reacts to your
presence, it can be a real adrenaline rush.
There are few
experiences as exhilarating as a close encounter with an elephant, lion
or buffalo. This is an experience that will make you feel more alive. You
will, of course, want to stay alive so make sure that any foot safari
is undertaken by a fully trained and responsible guide.
At Mzima
Springs, two nature trails have been established, which are especially
good for birders.
White Water Rafting
One of the wildest
ways to explore Tsavo is by raft, on the waters of the Athi River. Three
day rafting expeditions set out from the town of Kibwezi (a three hour
drive from Nairobi). The river winds its way through Tsavo, and the 82
km rafting trip is the perfect combination of game viewing and white
water adventure.
The river is rich in birdlife, and rafters will
encounter plenty of crocodiles and hippo along the way. Scenic drifts
along clear stretches of water are interspersed with excellent white
water action, through Class II-IV rapids of up to 6km in length. Nights
are spent camped out on sandbanks, sleeping under the stars by the
warmth of a campfire.
For those looking for a real adventure,
this is one of Tsavo's best safaris. High water season is May and
December.
Bird Watching
This vast area is excellent Birding country,
popular with specialist birding safaris. Notable species recorded
include the rare Basra Reed Warbler, Friedmann’s Lark, Ostrich, Blue
Quail, Violet Wood hoopoe, Martial and Crowned Eagle.
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