The main highlight in Tsavo West is the Mzima Springs, the source of the majority of Mombasa's fresh water. Two hundred and twenty million litres of water flow through the region every day from underground streams, stemming from the lava massif, known as the Chyulu Hills. Aside from the amazing facts, you'll be literally spoilt for choice when it comes to the animal action - Elephant, Hippo and Crocodile indulging in their regular antics out on the water - Gazelle, Zebra, Giraffe and chattering Monkeys wandering through the thick Acacia and Raffia Palms and gathering on the banks. However, if your appetite for wildlife viewing still isn't sated, there is also an underwater chamber for those who want to get in on the live aquatic action.
Tsavo West has a more diverse range of habitats than its Eastern counterpart - including mountains, river forest, lakes and wooded grassland. Offering game viewing that would rival the Mara, the Leopard, Cheetah, Buffalo, Rhino, Lion and even a variety of small mammals, including the Mongoose, Dik Dik and Porcupine, are regularly seen in the 9,065 kms2 national park.
The park extends to include the Chyulu Hills National Park, one the world's newest mountain ranges - the most recent volcanic peak formed only 500 years ago. A four-wheel drive track leads to the highest point, known as Shetani, or "Devil" in Swahili, and it's possible to walk to the caves on the side of the volcano. Definitely worth a look, at the end of the trail you can also take in unbeatable views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
We'll leave you with a little bit of trivia - Tsavo West also bears the remains of the camp that Denys Finch Hatton and Blor Blixen used on their hunting trips, (no, we don't mean the plush "Finch Hatton's Camp" in the very same park - this is the real deal). However, you will need to use your imagination on this one, as it's really just a scattering of bricks, but for "Out of Africa" fans - well, need we say more...
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