2-Day Safari in Taita Hills from Mombasa

Discover the 2-Day Safari in Taita Hills from Mombasa

If you’re looking for an authentic wildlife adventure just a few hours from Mombasa, the 2-Day Safari in Taita Hills offers a compelling mix of game viewing, stunning landscapes, and comfortable accommodations. Designed for those craving a quick escape into Kenya’s wild side, this tour packs a lot into just two days, making it an appealing choice for wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, or anyone wanting a break from the coast’s beaches.

We love how this safari combines Tsavo East National Park with the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary — two very different habitats that showcase a wide variety of animals. Plus, the chance to stay overnight at the Sarova Salt Lick Lodge, perched on stilts overlooking a waterhole, promises some memorable, off-the-beaten-path moments. However, be prepared for early mornings and full days on the move, which can be tiring for some travelers.

This tour seems best suited for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive wildlife experience without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see big game like elephants, lions, and giraffes, all while enjoying the luxurious lodge setting. If you’re after a more relaxed, leisurely safari, this might be a bit fast-paced, but for a quick, well-organized introduction to Kenyan wildlife, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Diverse Wildlife: Combines Tsavo East and Taita Hills for a broad array of animals.
• Overnight Stay: Unique experience sleeping in a lodge overlooking a waterhole, ideal for nocturnal wildlife viewing.
• All-Inclusive: Meals, entrance fees, and accommodations are included, providing good value.
• Convenient Pickup & Drop-Off: Hotel pickup in Mombasa makes planning easy.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides ensure you see as much as possible.
• Early Starts: Expect 6 am departures, perfect for catching the animals when they’re most active.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Mombasa to Tsavo East & Taita Hills

The adventure kicks off early at 6 am. You’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable vehicle, heading north along the historic railway route toward Nairobi. This scenic drive takes you through the outskirts of Mombasa, past warehouses and workshops, with the vast plains of Tsavo slowly unfolding in the distance. It’s a good chance to appreciate Kenya’s changing landscapes even before your game drives.

Your first stop is Ngutuni Sanctuary, a private reserve bordering Tsavo East. Here, you’ll enjoy a game drive that offers a glimpse of wildlife in a slightly less crowded setting. The waterhole you’ll see from Ngutuni Lodge is a prime spot where animals gather, especially during dry seasons. Reviewers note the lodge’s location is “15 minutes from Tsavo East main gate” and offers a peaceful break with views of wildlife at the waterhole. Expect to see buffalo, elephants, giraffes, and possibly lions during the drive, all with the backdrop of the dramatic Kenyan bush.

Lunch at Ngutuni Lodge then sets you up for the afternoon transfer to Salt Lick Lodge. Built on stilts over a waterhole, it’s a feature that appeals to wildlife lovers who want to watch animals in their natural habitat from the comfort of their room or balcony. Around 4 pm, you’ll go on a game drive here, where the likelihood of spotting elephants, lions, and zebras is high. One review mentions the “captivating views” and the thrill of seeing animals come to drink, especially at dusk.

Ngutuni Lodge: A Piece of History and Comfort

Ngutuni Lodge isn’t just a stop for game viewing; it’s steeped in history, once a European army camp during the construction of the Kenya-Uganda railway. Today, it’s a peaceful place for a short break, with a chance to reflect on Kenya’s colonial past while enjoying the natural surroundings. Reviewers highlight that “the guns have been turned into cameras,” emphasizing how the lodge’s history has been transformed into a wildlife observation spot.

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: The Nighttime and Morning Marvels

Your lodge stay at Salt Lick is a highlight. The location on stilts over a waterhole provides a “front-row seat” to nocturnal activity — elephants, hippos, and perhaps even lions may be seen drinking after sunset. Guests describe the experience as “more than just a lodge,” emphasizing the luxury combined with authentic wildlife viewing. Rising early for a morning game drive, you’ll witness the animals at their most active, with some reviewers mentioning the thrill of seeing lions, elephants, and giraffes in the early light.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Return to Mombasa

After breakfast at Salt Lick, you’ll enjoy another short game drive in the sanctuary. The early morning is often the best time for animal sightings, and some guests mention how guides like Julius make sure you see the “big five” and other iconic wildlife, sometimes in the presence of stunning landscapes, including views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.

Post-drive, you’ll head back to the lodge for lunch, then continue your journey southward to Mombasa, arriving in the evening. The drive back offers a chance to reflect on your wildlife encounters and enjoy the scenery.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This safari is priced at $399 per person, which covers vehicle transfers, accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and guided game drives. When you consider the quality of the lodges, especially Salt Lick’s unique location, and the opportunity to see a diverse array of animals, it’s a robust value.

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and their ability to spot wildlife that might otherwise be missed. One reviewer noted how “Julius was fantastic” and made sure they saw lions, giraffes, and elephants at different times of day. This level of expertise can turn a good safari into an unforgettable experience.

In terms of logistics, the hotel pickup and drop-off in Mombasa make planning straightforward. The tour is designed for most travelers aged 7 and above, with a maximum group size of 14, ensuring personalized attention without feeling crowded.

What to Expect from the Experience

While the itinerary is full, it’s important to be prepared for early mornings and long drives — the trip starts at 6 am and involves a lot of vehicle time. The comfortable transportation, paired with well-organized stops, minimizes fatigue.

You will spend approximately 3 hours during the first game drive at Salt Lick and Ngutuni, then about 6 hours exploring Taita Hills over the two days. Some guests mention that the full-day safaris are intense, but the reward is plentiful sightings of big game and birdlife.

Accommodations and Meals

The overnight at Salt Lick Lodge is a highlight for many. Guests often praise the luxury and the atmosphere of being surrounded by wildlife. The included meals — dinner, breakfast, and lunch — are described as satisfying, with some reviewers mentioning the food exceeded expectations.

Tips for Maximizing Your Safari

• Arrive early and keep your camera ready — the best sightings often happen at dawn and dusk.
• Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions and be patient; they’re experts at finding wildlife.
• Bring some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs or drinks not included.
• Dress in neutral colors and bring binoculars for better viewing.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari from Mombasa offers a comprehensive taste of Kenya’s wildlife, blending the excitement of game drives with the comfort of a luxury lodge experience. The combination of Tsavo East and Taita Hills guarantees a diversity of animals and landscapes, making this trip ideal for those short on time but eager for a genuine wildlife adventure.

Travelers who value expert guides, luxury accommodations, and well-planned itineraries will find this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly suited for first-timers in Kenya or those looking to tick the big five off their bucket list with minimal fuss.

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, and want a memorable wildlife experience just outside Mombasa, this safari delivers on all fronts.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Mombasa are included, making it easy to start and end your adventure without extra hassle.

What is the typical group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $399 per person, which covers accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and guided game drives.

How long is each game drive?
You can expect around 3 hours during the first drive on Day 1 and about 4 hours on Day 2, with a short morning drive included.

Is breakfast and dinner included?
Yes, all meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — are included in the package.

What wildlife species might I see?
Expect elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and many bird species, with reviews mentioning sightings of the big five.

Are the accommodations luxury?
Salt Lick Lodge is described as offering a luxurious experience, especially with its location overlooking a waterhole.

What should I bring on the safari?
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and possibly a camera to capture wildlife moments.

Can children participate?
The minimum age is 7 years, making it suitable for families with older kids.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 6 days in advance receive a full refund. Less notice may incur fees, so plan accordingly.

In all, this safari feels like a well-balanced, immersive wildlife experience, perfect for those wanting to see Kenya’s animals up close without the extra days or expense of longer trips. It combines the thrill of game viewing with the comfort of luxury lodges, ensuring that your quick escape from Mombasa leaves you with memories to cherish.