3 days Tsavo East & Tsavo West Safari from Diani/Mombasa

Traveling to Kenya often conjures images of vast savannahs, majestic elephants, and iconic wildlife encounters. The 3-day Tsavo East & West Safari from Diani or Mombasa promises to bring those visions to life, offering an immersive adventure through two of Kenya’s most celebrated national parks. While we haven’t personally joined this specific tour, we’ve thoroughly researched it to illuminate what makes it a standout choice—and what travelers should consider before booking.

What we love about this tour:

The chance to see large herds of elephants and the famous “Red Elephants” up close.
Visiting Aruba Dam, a favorite waterhole where wildlife congregate.
The full board lodge accommodation that balances comfort with authentic safari ambiance.
The breathtaking views of Tsavo’s landscapes, especially at Tsavo West and the iconic Mzima Springs.

One potential consideration: The tour involves quite a packed schedule, with early mornings, long drives, and multiple game drives in just three days. Travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace might find this a bit intense.

This experience is well-suited for those craving a comprehensive wildlife adventure that combines game viewing, scenic landscapes, and cultural authenticity in a short timeframe. Perfect for first-timers or anyone eager to explore Kenya’s legendary parks with everything arranged for a hassle-free journey.

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Key Points

Authentic wildlife sightings in both Tsavo East and West, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and more.
Visit Aruba Dam — a waterhole built during colonial times, where animals come to drink.
Stay in comfortable lodges offering full board with excellent buffets and scenic views.
Expert-guided game drives in safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for better photography and viewing.
Flexible booking options—pay later and keep your plans open.
Early start and packed schedule—ideal for travelers wanting maximum wildlife exposure in limited time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Safari Experience

Kenya’s renowned Tsavo National Parks are a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts, and this 3-day tour from Diani or Mombasa offers a well-rounded introduction. It combines two distinct parks—Tsavo East and Tsavo West—each with its own unique character and wildlife population.

What makes this adventure stand out? First, the expert local guides—notably, the reviews highlight the knowledgeable drivers who enhance the experience with their insights. Guests frequently mention how the guides’ familiarity with animal behavior and park history amplifies the thrill of spotting elusive predators or marveling at herds of elephants.

Next, the scenic drives are complemented by iconic stops like Aruba Dam and Mzima Springs. These locations aren’t just photo ops but offer authentic wildlife moments—animals often gather at waterholes, especially during dry seasons. The views from the lodges, perched amidst the wilderness, give travelers a chance to soak in the landscape’s vastness and tranquility.

Finally, the full board accommodation ensures that after exhilarating days, you’re well-fed and rested, with hearty buffets that cater to diverse tastes. It’s a smart inclusion, especially since food can often be an afterthought on safaris, but here, it’s part of the experience.

Looking for more options in Tsavo East National Park? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Diani/Mombasa to Tsavo East

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup around 6:30 am. The drive along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway is smooth, offering glimpses of Kenyan countryside before arriving at Buchuma Gate at around 10 am. The game drive begins immediately, focusing on Tsavo East’s diverse wildlife hotspots.

Visiting Aruba Dam is a highlight. Built in 1952 by the British Army, this waterhole remains a magnet for animals during dry seasons. Expect to see elephants, buffaloes, zebras, and possibly even some more elusive creatures like lions or cheetahs nearby. Several reviews mention the dam as a “must-see” for its vibrant animal activity.

After a picnic lunch at the lodge—such as Lion Hills Lodge or similar—you’ll have a couple of hours to relax. Later, another game drive takes you deeper into Tsavo East, with the chance to encounter lions, ostriches, gnus, giraffes, and more. The day finishes with a sunset return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Transition from Tsavo East to Tsavo West

The early morning game drive in Tsavo East offers another chance to spot animals before heading west around 10 am. The drive to Tsavo West takes about three hours, arriving at Ngulia Safari Lodge or similar around 1 pm.

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Tsavo West’s stunning scenery. The Mzima Springs—a series of crystal-clear pools fed by underground streams—are the morning’s highlight. Guests can marvel at hippos, crocodiles, and colorful fish in these waters, with many reviewers describing it as a “photo-worthy” spot.

The afternoon is dedicated to another game drive, with opportunities to see lions, giraffes, zebras, and perhaps the elusive rhino, depending on park sightings that day. The landscape here is particularly dramatic, with rolling hills and volcanic formations offering a scenic backdrop for wildlife viewing.

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Day 3: Tsavo West and Return to Mombasa/Diani

The last morning begins with an early breakfast, followed by a visit to Mzima Springs for one more chance to enjoy Kenya’s aquatic wildlife. Then, a final game drive in Tsavo West provides opportunities to see animals that might have been missed earlier.

By 10 am, you’ll start heading back toward the coast, aiming to arrive in Mombasa or Diani around 3:30 pm—just in time to relax after your wildlife escapade.

There's plenty more to explore in Tsavo East National Park

Transportation & Comfort

Traveling in a proper safari vehicle with a pop-up roof ensures maximum visibility and photography comfort. The tours are designed to keep the group small enough for personalized attention but large enough for a lively atmosphere. The drive between parks is scenic but long, emphasizing the importance of comfortable seats and early mornings.

The lodges provide full-board accommodation, with hearty buffets serving local and international dishes. Guests often mention the cleanliness and friendliness of staff, adding to the overall value.

The Value of This Tour

At $895 per person, this safari packs a lot into three days. Included are all park entrance fees, full board accommodations, transportation, and expert guiding. This comprehensive package ensures no hidden costs, making it an accessible option for many travelers.

While it’s not the cheapest safari, the experience’s quality—covering two parks, key wildlife hotspots, and scenic landscapes—justifies the price. Plus, the convenience of having everything arranged, from hotel pickup to drop-off, is a significant plus for those unfamiliar with Kenyan logistics.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick Kenya’s wildlife off their bucket list without sacrificing comfort. It’s also perfect for travelers with limited time who want an authentic, all-inclusive experience. Nature lovers who enjoy scenic drives, waterhole viewing, and engaging guides will find it especially rewarding.

However, those looking for a slow-paced, luxury-focused experience may find the schedule somewhat intense. The early starts and full days suit energetic travelers ready for adventure.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Tsavo East & West safari from Diani or Mombasa offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes. It combines the thrill of game drives with scenic highlights like Aruba Dam and Mzima Springs, all within comfortable lodges that serve hearty meals.

The tour’s focus on iconic animals—particularly elephants and lions—paired with expert guides, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a safari packed with memorable moments. While the schedule is busy, it maximizes the chance to see Kenya’s big game and stunning scenery in just a few days.

For travelers who want a straightforward, value-packed adventure with everything taken care of, this safari hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly suitable for those eager to experience Kenya’s wildlife in a compact, immersive itinerary that balances excitement with comfort.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The $895 per person covers all transportation, full board accommodation at lodges, all park entrance fees, a qualified guide, and pickup/drop-off at your hotel.

Are drinks included?
No, extra drinks like beer or champagne are not included. You might want to bring some for the evenings or during meals.

What should I bring?
A valid passport is essential. Plus, comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and camera gear will enhance your experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s not recommended for people over 95 years old, but most healthy adults and families with children should enjoy it. Early mornings and long drives are part of the package.

How flexible is the itinerary?
You can reserve and pay later, allowing you to keep your plans flexible. However, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the main highlights?
Expect to see large herds of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and the famous waterholes like Aruba Dam. The visit to Mzima Springs is also a standout for its wildlife and scenic beauty.

Ready to experience Kenya’s wild side? This safari offers an adventure filled with iconic animals, dramatic landscapes, and comfortable logistics—perfect for making unforgettable memories in just three days.

You can check availability for your dates here: