Ol Pejeta (Kenya) and Tsavo East (Kenya) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Ol Pejeta | Tsavo East | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Kenya | Kenya |
| Type | Private conservancy | National park |
| Approx. area | 360 km² | 13,747 km² |
| Best time | June to October and December to March | August to September |
| Suggested stay | 2–3 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) | Moi International Airport, Mombasa (MBA) |
| Big Five | Present | Not all five |
| Malaria | Low risk: check with a doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Ol Pejeta | Tsavo East |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Ol Pejeta if
- you are travelling in March to April and December
- you want night drives and walking safaris
- you hope to see black rhino, white rhino and chimpanzees
Choose Tsavo East if
- you are travelling in May and August to September
- you hope to see crocodiles, oryx and ostriches
As both are in the same country, many travellers combine them in one trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ol Pejeta or Tsavo East?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Ol Pejeta is stronger in March to April and December. Tsavo East is stronger in May and August to September.
When is the best time for each?
Ol Pejeta: June to October and December to March. Tsavo East: August to September.
Sources: Ol Pejeta Conservancy · Ol Pejeta Conservancy - Wildlife and habitats · Climates to Travel - Nyeri (nearest station) · Kenya Wildlife Service - Tsavo East National Park · Magical Kenya - Tsavo · Climates to Travel - Kenya (Voi normals)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.