Tsavo West has been called “the land of man-eaters and lava,” a thrilling epitaph which captures the history of this national park. Geologically the park is known for having the largest lava flow on Earth, stemming from an eruption about 300 years ago. Called the Shetani Lava flow, it is still an impressive sight.

The other historic event that the park is famous for is the man-eating lions of Tsavo. In 1898 during the construction of the Uganda railway line through the area, workers were repeatedly attacked over nine months by two male lions who developed a taste for humans. The lions were eventually shot and work on the railway continued. Today, guests come in search of the descendants of these legendary lions.

The park is less visited than the parks of the north, which means that guests can enjoy an authentic safari experience away from the crowds. The region around Mzima Springs is especially lush and it is this area where game viewing is most rewarding as the wildlife congregates here. Tsavo West also has a thriving population of black rhino which are kept in a separately fenced off area to protect them from poaching. The rhinos are thriving here, but poaching is a constant threat and revenue from tourists helps fund their continued protection.