Weather and Climate of Tsavo West National Park: Tsavo West National Park is situated in Taita-Taveta County of Kenya. The park covers an area of 9,065 square kilometers and was established in 1984. Tsavo West National Park lies to the south of the road, while Tsavo East sits to the north. Its diverse topography of riverine vegetation, vast grasslands, dense acacia woodlands, rocky outcrops, and semi-arid desert shrubbery are the perfect habitats for Kenya’s northern and southern species. The park is a more popular destination due to its magnificent scenery and the Mzima springs rich and varied wildlife, a good road system, a rhino reserve, rock climbing potential and guided walks along the Tsavo River. The park is operated by the Kenya Wildlife Service.
The weather in Tsavo West National Park is mainly hot and dry. Daytime temperatures usually reach about 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit), and at night, they cool down to around 18 degrees Celsius (64-degree Fahrenheit). If you’re planning an early morning game drive, it’s a good idea to wear something warm since the mornings can be quite cool. The park gets most of its rain in April and November.
Dry Season–June to October
In Tsavo West National Park, the coolest months are bright and sunny, with hardly any rain at all. If you’re planning to go on a game drive in an open vehicle, it’s a good idea to wear some warm clothes.
- June and July
In June and July, the weather in Tsavo West National Park tends to be warm and sunny during the afternoons, with temperatures getting up to around 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the early mornings and nights can be quite cool, usually around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit).
- August and September
In August and September, the weather gets a bit warmer. By September, the average daytime temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius, which is about 81 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can get much hotter, most of the time, you can expect comfortable warmth during the day.
- October
In October, the weather gets hotter and more humid as it gets ready for the rainy season.
Wet Season–November to May
In Tsavo West National Park, the wet season consists of two main rainy periods: the short rains and the long rains. After the short rains, which typically occur in late October to December, there is a drier spell during January and February before the longer rainy season begins, usually in March and lasting until May.
- November and December
In Tsavo West National Park, the rainy season starts to pick up in November, even though you might see some rain beginning in October. This period is known as the “short rains.” During these months, you can often expect afternoon storms to roll in. The daytime temperatures typically reach around 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit), but the rain helps to cool things off.
- January and February
In January and February, visitors to Tsavo West National Park can expect some of the warmest weather, especially in February when afternoon temperatures can reach around 30 degrees Celsius (or 86 degrees Fahrenheit). During these months, the park usually experiences a dry period that falls between the short rains and the long rains. However, it’s hard to predict the exact start and end dates of this dry spell.
- March, April and May
From March to May, Tsavo West National Park experiences what’s known as the ‘long rains.’ These rains usually start in the latter part of March, and it’s common to see short showers in the afternoons. April tends to be the wettest month, which can make the roads a bit tricky to navigate during this time. You can expect afternoon temperatures to rise to about 29 degrees Celsius or 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
What to wear in Tsavo West National Park
Tourist planning a Kenya wildlife safari in Tsavo West National Park are recommended to move or pack the following items for a memorable safari such as Protect your skin with quality sunscreen and a good bug repellent. Good walking shoes to protect your feet. Wear breathable pants or shorts, quality socks, light dresses, a raincoat, and a light jumper for evenings and early mornings.
Where to stay in Tsavo West National Park during your safaris.
Lodge options to stay in on a safari in Tsavo West National Park range from Budget, and mid-range to luxury options. You will choose what to stay in depending on your interests and budget. Lodge options in Tsavo West National Park include Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp, Severin Safari Camp, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, Lions Bluff Lodge, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge and Voyager Ziwani Safari Camp among others.
How to get to Tsavo West National Park
Getting to Tsavo West National Park can be done in three easy ways:
Air means: You can fly directly from Nairobi to Tsavo West on a charter flight, which takes about 30 to 50 minutes.
Road means: If you prefer driving, you can take a road trip from either Mombasa or Nairobi. You’ll need to enter the park through either the Mtito Andei gate or the Chyulu gate.
Railway means: Another option is to take a train to Mtito Andei and then drive to Tsavo West from there.
