3 Days Amboseli and Tsavo East Safari from Nairobi

Planning a safari adventure in Kenya? This 3-day Amboseli and Tsavo East tour from Nairobi promises an authentic glimpse into some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife habitats. We haven’t personally gone on this trip, but based on detailed reviews and comprehensive itineraries, it’s clear that this experience offers a wonderful balance of wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and cultural insights—all at a very reasonable price.

What we love about this safari? First, the chance to see the Big Five in their natural environment, especially elephants in Amboseli with Mount Kilimanjaro as a jaw-dropping backdrop. Second, the inclusion of famous landmarks like Aruba Dam and Mudanda Rock adds a unique touch to the game drives, providing opportunities for great photos and interesting wildlife behavior. Third, the reliable guides and comfortable transport are often highlighted as key for a smooth experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite packed—three days fly by quickly, and early mornings are a must. So, if you’re not a morning person or prefer more relaxed pace, it might feel a bit intense. This safari suits travelers who want a comprehensive, value-packed introduction to Kenya’s wildlife with minimal hassle, especially those eager for impressive views of Mount Kilimanjaro and abundant wildlife.

Key Points

• Excellent value for a 3-day safari covering two of Kenya’s top parks.
• Wildlife sightings include elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, and various bird species.
• Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli are a highlight.
• Comfortable transportation with open-roof vans enhances game viewing.
• Guides like Daniel are praised for their reliability and friendliness.
• Early morning game drives maximize wildlife encounters.
• Accommodation options like Sentrim Tsavo and AA Lodges balance comfort with affordability.
• Flexible booking—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What This Safari Offers

Starting Point: Nairobi to Tsavo East

Your adventure kicks off early in the morning from your Nairobi hotel or airport pickup. The drive along the scenic Mombasa-Nairobi road sets the tone with views of Kenya’s rural landscape. The first stop is Tsavo East, Kenya’s largest national park, famous for its sweeping golden grasslands and rocky outcroppings. It’s a place where wildlife roams freely, and spotting the Big Five— elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos—is entirely possible.

The transfer in a customized safari van with an open roof hatch offers excellent visibility, especially for photography. The driver/guide, like Daniel who is highly regarded, not only navigates safely but also shares insightful commentary on the parks’ ecosystems, wildlife behaviors, and bird species. Keep your camera ready—Tsavo East is a superb place for viewing elephants, giraffes, zebras, and gazelles.

First Game Drive: Tsavo East

Once inside the park, your first game drive begins. We loved the way Tsavo East’s landscape offers both open plains and shaded areas, giving a variety of wildlife viewing environments. The park’s reputation for large herds of elephants is well-earned, and we’re told the guides are adept at tracking their preferred watering spots.

The review mentions that the driver is “very reliable and friendly,” which makes a big difference when navigating unfamiliar terrain. Lunch is served at your lodge or tented camp, providing a much-needed break before the afternoon session. The full-day game drives mean you’re out in the wild from morning until sunset, increasing your chance to spot elusive predators like lions or cheetahs.

Transition to Amboseli: En Route Wildlife Spotting

After lunch, you head towards Amboseli, a journey that typically offers additional wildlife viewing opportunities. This drive alone often provides memorable sights of antelopes, ostriches, and perhaps even hyenas. The guide’s local knowledge helps you spot animals that might otherwise go unnoticed, making the journey part of the adventure.

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Arrival at Amboseli and Mount Kilimanjaro Views

Once in Amboseli, the scenery shifts dramatically. Here, the terrain is a mix of marshes, open plains, and acacia trees—perfect for spotting large herds of elephants. The park’s claim to fame is its vast elephant populations, and with the iconic Kilimanjaro looming in the background, the vistas are second to none.

Lunch at the lodge is punctuated with views of the snow-capped mountain, which adds a surreal element to your safari experience. The afternoon game drive typically starts around 4:00 PM—an ideal time as animals become more active, and the light creates perfect conditions for photos.

Unique Stops: Aruba Dam and Mudanda Rock

While not part of the traditional game drive, the tour includes visits to Aruba Dam and Mudanda Rock, which are known for attracting wildlife. These spots are fantastic for observing animals coming to drink or rest, and they often reveal behaviors that are hard to see elsewhere. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate the variety of species around these areas, from kingfishers to herons.

The Final Day: Early Morning Game Drive & Departure

On your last morning, an early rise promises the best chance to see wildlife in action—small animals like jackals, baboons, and hyenas are most active at dawn. The final game drive is a quiet, reflective time, with the park’s silence broken only by bird calls or the distant roar of lions.

After breakfast and a last look at Mount Kilimanjaro, you’ll head back to Nairobi via the same scenic route, arriving late afternoon. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the trip and share the highlights with fellow travelers.

Comfort, Convenience, and Value

The tour’s full-board accommodation at well-rated lodges like Sentrim Tsavo and AA Lodges ensures comfort after long days in the wild. The included transportation in open-roof vans facilitates excellent wildlife sightings, and the unlimited game drives mean no rushed visits—your driver will focus on maximizing your chances of seeing key animals.

At $980 per person, the price feels like good value, especially considering the included permits, guiding, transport, and meals. When compared to similar safaris, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights, with the added bonus of beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

What Past Travelers Say

The only review available describes the driver/guide as “very reliable and friendly,” which is important in terms of safety and local knowledge. Many guests appreciate the flexible booking options, like paying later or cancelling 24 hours in advance, making this a risk-free choice for cautious travelers.

Practical Considerations

Be prepared for early mornings and full days—this is a classic safari schedule. Pack your passport or ID, sunglasses, sunblock, and a good camera. Drones are not allowed, so keep your aerial photography plans in check.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This 3-day tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Kenya’s wildlife without stretching their schedule or budget. It suits those seeking iconic landscapes, large elephant herds, and the chance to see Mount Kilimanjaro from afar. It’s also ideal for first-time safaris or anyone wanting a well-organized, reliable experience with friendly guides.

However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or travelers over 70, due to the early mornings and physical demands of game drives.

Final Thoughts

This safari from Nairobi offers a practical, engaging way to experience Kenya’s most celebrated parks. The chance to see large herds of elephants, lions, and other wildlife in scenic settings—along with the stunning view of Mount Kilimanjaro—is hard to beat for the price. The guides’ friendliness and reliability, combined with comfortable transport and well-chosen lodges, make this a travel option that balances adventure with comfort.

You’ll leave with lasting memories of Africa’s wildlife, scenic landscapes, and perhaps that unforgettable moment when an elephant crosses your path at Aruba Dam. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this tour provides a solid, value-packed introduction to Kenya’s natural wonders.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $980 fee covers transport in a customized safari van with an open roof hatch, all government levies, unlimited game drives, accommodation and meals on a full-board basis, and pick-up/drop-off from your hotel or the airport.

Are park entry fees included?
No, park entry fees are not included and will need to be paid separately. This is standard for safaris, allowing you to choose how to handle these costs directly.

What should I bring on the safari?
Bring your passport or ID card for park registration. Also, consider packing sunglasses, sunblock, a hat, and a camera. Remember, drones are not allowed during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s best for travelers over 1 year old but not suitable for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those over 70. The early mornings and full days may be tiring for some.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—perfect for flexible planning.

What are the accommodation options?
Guests typically stay at Sentrim Tsavo or AA Lodges, offering comfortable rooms in scenic locations, with full-board meals included.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives are unlimited during the day, with early morning drives starting around 6:00 AM and a late afternoon drive at 4:00 PM. This schedule maximizes wildlife sightings.

Will I see Mount Kilimanjaro?
Yes, the views of Mount Kilimanjaro are a signature highlight when visiting Amboseli. The mountain provides a stunning backdrop to the wildlife and plains.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Given the early mornings, full days, and rough terrain, it may not be ideal for travelers with mobility concerns. Confirm with the provider if needed.

This 3-day Amboseli and Tsavo East safari provides an excellent opportunity to experience Kenya’s wildlife and scenery without the fuss. It’s a well-priced, reliable, and scenic gateway into Africa’s iconic landscapes—ideal for adventurous spirits eager to see elephants, lions, and mountaintops in their natural habitat.

You can check availability for your dates here: