Nairobi to Tsavo East: Road, Rail and Air Routes on the Coast Road

Kenya's largest park spreads across a red-dust plain, with the Galana River and open savannah. The usual entry point is Voi, which lies along the main road to the coast.

We outline each way to get there and how to pace the trip. See Tsavo East and Tsavo West for the parks.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Highway

Vehicles leave Nairobi on the Mombasa road, pass Mtito Andei and continue south-east to Voi. The highway is heavily used by trucks, so progress varies, and the journey is long. Many itineraries break it in Tsavo West or Amboseli rather than doing it in a single push. Starting early gives you time for an afternoon game drive after you enter at Voi.

By Rail

The standard gauge railway has a station at Voi, which makes it possible to take the train for part of the journey and transfer by vehicle to your camp. Check current schedules and booking rules, and arrange a pickup in advance. The train suits travellers who prefer a smoother ride.

Flying In

Scheduled and charter flights serve airstrips in the Tsavo ecosystem from Wilson Airport and from the coast. Flights make short trips feasible and can be combined with a road journey one way. Strict baggage allowances apply, so use soft bags and confirm timings.

Where Tsavo East Fits

The park works well between Nairobi, Amboseli and the beaches. Read Nairobi to Amboseli and Nairobi to Mombasa for neighbouring legs. See Tsavo East itineraries for sample plans.

Season and Conditions

Dry months are best for game viewing and easy driving, while rains turn the plains green but may slow tracks. Heat is significant, so plan around dawn and dusk. See the best time to visit Tsavo East.

Wildlife on Arrival

Tsavo East is famed for red elephants, which are dusted by the park's soil, as well as lions, buffalo, giraffes and many birds. The Galana River and waterholes attract animals in the dry season. Game drives start early because heat builds quickly. Read the Tsavo East wildlife guide to know what to look for.

Activities and Length of Stay

Two to three nights is typical, with morning and afternoon drives and a break at midday. Some camps arrange walks, night drives or visits to viewpoints depending on their location. See Tsavo East activities and Tsavo East FAQs for planning information.

Preparing

Carry water, sun protection and a scarf for the red dust. See getting to Tsavo East for gate and arrival detail. As the park is large, it is worth asking your guide how long it will take to reach the best viewing areas from your camp. Some travellers prefer to focus on one section for a more relaxed stay, rather than trying to cover everything. Bring plenty of water, a hat and a change of clothes for the dust, and make sure your onward transport to the coast is booked in advance so that your last day runs smoothly.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team