3 Days Tsavo East + Taita hills/Saltlick lodge from Malindi

Traveling to Kenya often sparks visions of sprawling savannahs, mighty elephants, and the chance to see big cats in their natural habitat. This 3-day safari from Malindi offers an intimate look at some of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes—Tsavo East and Taita Hills—without feeling rushed. We’ve looked into this tour thoroughly, and what stands out are the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the promise of authentic wildlife encounters.

Three things we love about this experience:

• Its focus on small, private groups that allow for personalized attention and fewer crowds
• The chance to see the famous red elephants of Tsavo East, along with lions, giraffes, and other big game
• The inclusion of a stay at the renowned Saltlick Lodge in Taita Hills, offering a luxurious yet authentic safari atmosphere

One consideration? The tour’s duration and timing mean early mornings and long days—something to keep in mind if you prefer relaxed travel.

This safari is perfect for those who want a genuine, well-organized experience that balances game drives with comfort, ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to venture into Kenya’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: The tour is exclusively for your group, with a focus on intimate wildlife viewing and flexible scheduling.
• Expert Guides: Driven by reviews praising Dicky and Ismael, who are known for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Wildlife Diversity: Expect elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and warthogs, with Tsavo East famous for its red elephants.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes round-trip pickup from Malindi, full-day game drives, and lodge stays that blend safari adventure with comfort.
• Value for Money: At $1,000 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, including park fees and a luxurious lodge stay.
• Authentic Experience: From the detailed itinerary to positive reviewer insights, this tour aims for genuine wildlife encounters and local immersion.

Starting Strong: The Tsavo East Experience

Your adventure kicks off bright and early at 8 am from Malindi, a journey of around two hours to reach Tsavo East, Kenya’s largest national park. The early start is crucial for maximizing game sightings, and your guides will be ready with their knowledge and enthusiasm. The drive itself offers a chance to get into the right mindset for safari—anticipation mixed with the changing landscape.

Arriving at Tsavo East, the first game drive is a highlight. We love that this is not just a quick look but a full-on safari experience with opportunities to see elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and warthogs. The guides reportedly excel at spotting these animals, even when they are hidden behind the tall grasses. The wildlife viewing continues on the way to your lodge, where you’ll check-in and enjoy a well-deserved lunch after some morning excitement.

The game drive’s timing (until 6:20 pm) ensures you get to see animals in their natural routines—grazing, drinking, and sometimes resting. Expect the landscape to be marked by the iconic reddish elephants—a signature sight of Tsavo East thanks to the park’s mineral-rich soil.

Day Two: Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary and the Lion Sanctuary

The journey moves westward early on Day Two, heading towards Taita Hills and Tsavo West. This part of the experience feels like a transition from the open plains to a more varied landscape, with lush hills and river valleys. The highlight here is visiting the famous lion sanctuary, which offers a unique opportunity to see these majestic predators up close and learn about conservation efforts.

According to reviewers, the guides really shine when sharing their knowledge—one mentions “Dicky and Ismael made the game drives engaging and informative.” You’ll encounter elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, zebras, warthogs, and, of course, lions. The inclusion of park entrance fees in the package is a great value point, removing any surprise costs.

The sanctuary’s reputation for a well-organized experience means you’ll likely see lions lounging, elephants bathing, and herds of antelopes grazing. The lush scenery and quieter environment in Tsavo West provide a different perspective on Kenya’s wildlife.

Day Three: Final Safari and Departure

On the last day, you’ll make a final game drive at Taita Hills, giving you one last chance to witness the animals in their habitat. The morning drive continues to be productive, with sightings of elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, and antelopes. The tour wraps up around 4 pm, giving you ample time for travel back to Malindi or onward plans.

The reviews highlight that guides are attentive, making sure you don’t miss key sightings and explaining the behaviors of animals. This final session is a fitting culmination of the safari, leaving you with memories of the natural beauty and wildlife you’ve experienced.

Transportation & Logistics

Traveling in a private minivan or jeep means your group will enjoy a comfortable, flexible experience. The early start from Malindi is essential for maximizing game viewing, and your vehicle offers plenty of space for camera gear and snacks. The tour’s duration (about three days) strikes a good balance—long enough for a thorough safari, but not so long that it becomes exhausting.

The tour is priced at $1,000 per person, which includes all park entrance fees and lodge stays. For those considering value, this is a solid investment in an authentic wildlife holiday, especially given the knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary.

Authentic, Well-Organized, and Value-Driven

This safari clearly appeals to travelers who want more than just a quick snapshot. The emphasis on private tours means fewer crowds and more personalized interactions, especially with guides like Dicky and Ismael, who are praised for their experience. The inclusion of luxury lodges like Saltlick provides comfort after long days on safari, balancing adventure with relaxation.

Food and scenery also get high marks—reviewers mention enjoying well-organized game drives around lodge availability and relaxing amidst beautiful landscapes. You’ll find the scenery constantly shifting from open plains to lush hills, which keeps the experience visually engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive safari that combines wildlife, comfort, and expert guidance, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for authentic encounters without the chaos of larger group tours. The focus on personalized service and detailed game drives ensures you’ll come away with memorable experiences.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day safari from Malindi to Tsavo East and Taita Hills offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, culture, and comfort. The attentive guides and carefully curated itinerary mean you get to see Kenya’s iconic animals—especially the famous red elephants—amid stunning landscapes.

While it requires early mornings and some long driving days, the payoff is a genuine connection with nature, enriched by expert insights and the chance to witness Kenya’s wilderness in all its glory. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, authentic safari experience without the crowds or rushed schedules.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable adventure in Africa, this trip provides genuine value, comfort, and a chance to see some of Kenya’s most remarkable sights.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all park entrance fees, accommodations at Saltlick Lodge, transportation in a private vehicle, and guided game drives.

How long is the drive from Malindi to Tsavo East?
It takes approximately two hours to reach Tsavo East from Malindi, making for a manageable start to your safari day.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is provided at the lodge after the morning game drive on Day 1. Details about other meals are not specified but are likely included at the lodge or provided during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, with private arrangements, it can be tailored for families or groups seeking a personalized experience.

What animals are most commonly seen?
Elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and warthogs are regularly spotted, with Tsavo East famous for its red elephants.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews praise guides like Dicky and Ismael for their expertise and engaging approach, making the safari both educational and fun.

What is the best time to go?
While the exact season isn’t specified, most safaris in Kenya are best during the dry season (June to October), when animals congregate around water sources.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is in a private minivan or jeep, offering comfort and flexibility for the duration of the trip.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is organized by KT & Safaris, known for their professional service and well-planned safaris.

This safari from Malindi offers a meaningful way to explore Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, all while enjoying the comfort of private arrangements and expert guides. It’s a memorable adventure for anyone wanting to connect with nature, see iconic animals, and experience Kenya’s incredible ecosystems firsthand.