5 Days Tsavo East ,Tsavo West and Saltlick lodge Safari

Planning a safari in Kenya can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options vying for your attention. This 5-day tour from Mombasa to Tsavo East and West National Parks offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic stops, and comfortable stays, making it a strong choice for travelers eager to see the Big 5 and experience Kenya’s wilderness without sacrificing comfort or breaking the bank.

What stands out about this safari are the professional guides who know the terrain inside-out, the guaranteed daily departures that add flexibility, and the chance to visit iconic spots like Mzima Springs. Plus, the lodges are described as “good to very good,” ensuring a cozy place to recharge after long game drives.

A potential consideration is the cost, at $1,936 per person, which can seem high, but the quality of experience, included meals, and park access largely justify it. This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers who want a balanced, well-organized adventure coupled with authentic safari lodges and expert guidance.

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Key Points

Comfortable accommodations in well-rated lodges like Salt Lick and Voi Wildlife Lodge
Expert driver-guides with extensive knowledge of wildlife, plants, and terrain
Guaranteed daily departures for flexible planning
Includes all park entrance fees and picnic lunches for a hassle-free experience
Opportunity to see the Big 5 and other iconic African species
Suitable for travelers seeking a comprehensive safari with a mix of relaxation and adventure

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The Breakdown of the 5-Day Safari Experience

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Day 1: From Mombasa to Tsavo East – First Wildlife Encounters

Your safari begins with a pickup from your Mombasa hotel or airport, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free journey. The drive along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway takes you to Tsavo East through the Bachuma Gate, a gateway to some of Kenya’s most iconic savannah scenery.

Once inside the park, your driver, Benjamin—who gets high praise in reviews for his wealth of knowledge—will take you on your first game drive en route to the lodge. Expect to see giraffes, zebras, elephants, buffaloes, and possibly some of the elusive big cats if you’re lucky.

By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive at your lodge for a well-earned lunch and rest. In the late afternoon, you’ll head out again for an evening game drive, this time through Voi main gate, when wildlife tends to be more active. Expect to spot giraffes, zebras, elephants, and maybe even predators like lions or cheetahs.

The Voi Wildlife Lodge offers a cozy base, with reviewers mentioning rooms that are clean and comfortable and food that’s very good, making it easier to relax after a day filled with new sights.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Tsavo East

After breakfast, you’ll set out for a full-day game drive. This is when you really get to see the park’s expansive plains and clusters of wildlife. The guide’s familiarity with the terrain and animal behavior helps ensure you’re in the right place at the right time. The goal is to spot as many animals as possible—zebras, antelopes, lions, and perhaps even a cheetah or two.

A highlight of this day is the possibility of seeing over 500 elephants. As one reviewer shared, “On day 2, my daughter and I stopped counting at 500 elephants.” The park’s diversity and density of animals are truly impressive, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

Lunch is a picnic in the park, giving you time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The overall experience is designed to maximize wildlife sightings while providing comfort and safety.

Day 3: Transition to Tsavo West and Visiting Mzima Springs

Early morning checkout leads you to Tsavo West, a park known for its diverse landscapes and geological features. The highlight here is Mzima Springs, one of Kenya’s most famous freshwater sources. The crystal-clear waters and underwater observation chamber allow you to see hippos and crocodiles swimming just below your feet—an experience that sticks with many travelers.

After exploring Mzima Springs, you’ll have a picnic lunch in the park before heading to Salt Lick Lodge, which many reviews praise for its beautiful setting and well-maintained rooms. The lodge’s ambiance is perfect for unwinding amid the bush.

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Day 4: Wildlife and Scenic Game Drives in Taita Hills Conservancy

This day offers a change of scenery with a game drive in the Taita Hills Conservancy. The scenery here is striking, with a hilly landscape providing a different backdrop for wildlife sightings. Expect to see various species of antelope, elephants, and possibly predators.

After lunch at the Taita Hills Resort, you’ll return to Salt Lick Lodge for a short rest. The evening features a sunset game drive, which is often highlighted in reviews as a magical time to spot animals and enjoy the landscape bathed in golden light.

This flexible schedule ensures you’re not just rushing from one stop to another but truly soaking in the surroundings.

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Day 5: Final Game Drive and Return to Mombasa

The last morning begins with a brief game drive in Taita, offering a final chance to spot wildlife before heading back to Mombasa. The drive is comfortable and scenic, with your driver guiding you safely back through the park gates.

Once back in Mombasa, your tour ends with hotel drop-off, providing a seamless conclusion to your safari adventure.

The Value of This Safari

Though at nearly $2,000, this tour is an investment, many travelers agree that the quality of guides, lodges, and wildlife sightings justifies the expense. The inclusion of all park entrance fees and picnic lunches simplifies planning, and the guaranteed daily departures add flexibility, especially if you’re limited on time or have specific travel dates.

The lodges play a significant role in the experience. Salt Lick Lodge, for instance, consistently receives praise for its good condition, clean rooms, and enjoyable food. Guests often mention how the food quality—ranging from local dishes to snacks—adds to the overall value, making the experience feel both authentic and comfortable.

The professionalism of guides like Benjamin ensures safety and maximizes wildlife sightings. A review describes him as very knowledgeable and attentive, making the game drives both educational and fun. Expect a mix of relaxed travel and exciting wildlife encounters, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs.

A notable aspect is the diversity of experiences—from game drives in open plains to viewing hippos at Mzima Springs and enjoying scenic sunset drives. The tour offers a well-rounded view of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive safari without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This 5-day safari is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife, comfort, and scenic stops. If you appreciate expert guides, good lodges, and the chance to see a wide range of animals—including the Big 5—this tour will suit you well. It’s particularly suited for those with limited time but still eager to experience Kenya’s top safari parks.

The tour’s price point reflects its comfort level and inclusiveness, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with spending a bit more for a higher-quality experience. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, or first-time safari-goers will find this itinerary offers plenty of value, with enough structured activities and guaranteed departures to ensure a smooth adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the tour include?
The tour includes game drives, picnic lunches, dinner and overnight stays at lodges, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all park entrance fees.

Are drinks like alcohol included?
No, drinks are not included in the package, so bring your own or purchase at the lodges.

How many game drives will I do each day?
You’ll enjoy at least one game drive each day, with some days featuring full-day drives and an evening drive in Tsavo East and West.

What kind of lodges are included?
The accommodations are described as good to very good, with Salt Lick Lodge and Voi Wildlife Lodge among the options, offering comfortable rooms and good food.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s structured schedule and professional guides make it suitable for families, especially those interested in wildlife.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, lions, cheetahs, antelopes, and possibly a few of the “big five.” The parks are also home to various smaller animals and birds.

How flexible are the departure dates?
The tour guarantees daily departures, making it easier to plan around your travel schedule.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While not explicitly stated, safaris in Kenya are generally best during the dry season, when animals congregate around water sources.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transportation involves air-conditioned vehicles operated by experienced guides, ensuring safety and comfort throughout.

How long are the game drives each day?
Game drives typically start in the early morning and late afternoon, lasting several hours each, providing ample time for wildlife viewing.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day safari offers an excellent way to experience Kenya’s iconic wildlife and scenic landscapes with minimal hassle. The combination of knowledgeable guides, quality lodges, and well-planned activities provides real value for those looking for an authentic, comfortable adventure.

It’s perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see the Big 5 and other wildlife up close, while also enjoying scenic stops like Mzima Springs and the Taita Hills. The included park entry fees and guaranteed departures simplify planning, making this an attractive option for both first-timers and seasoned travelers.

While it is an investment, the quality of the experience—highlighted by excellent guides, diverse landscapes, and memorable wildlife encounters—makes it worth considering. If your goal is a balanced, well-organized safari that emphasizes comfort and authentic adventure, this tour from Wildbond Tours and Safaris might just be your perfect match.