5 days Tsavo East/West and Saltlick Lodge Safari

Planning a safari in Kenya can be overwhelming, especially with so many options. This 5-day tour by Radar Tours and Travel offers a well-rounded experience of Kenya’s largest national park, combining the expansive beauty of Tsavo East and West with the iconic Saltlick Lodge. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, we’ve gathered detailed insights from trusted reviews and tour descriptions to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this safari appealing? First, the highlight of seeing the famous red elephants and their large herds in the open plains. Second, the chance to explore two distinct sections of Tsavo National Park, each with unique landscapes and wildlife. Third, the opportunity to stay at Saltlick Lodge, renowned as one of the world’s most photographed lodges, offering that perfect blend of comfort and safari ambiance.

One potential consideration is the price tag of $1,936 per person, which might seem steep but is quite competitive given the inclusions—game drives, transfers, and quality lodges. It’s best suited for travelers seeking an immersive, wildlife-focused experience with comfortable accommodations, especially those keen on photographing animals and exploring Kenya’s vast savannahs.

Key Points

• Large-scale Safari: Covering both Tsavo East and West, the tour offers a comprehensive view of Kenya’s most extensive park.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect sightings of the Big 5, with particular attention to the red elephants and predators like lions and leopards.
• Iconic Lodges: Staying at Saltlick Lodge provides excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation in a premium setting.
• Informed Itinerary: The tour balances game drives, park visits, and downtime, making it suitable for those who prefer a mix of activity and comfort.
• Expert Guides: Though not explicitly named, reviews suggest knowledgeable guides are part of the experience, enhancing wildlife spotting.
• Flexible Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with cancellations up to 24 hours beforehand, offering peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Kenya’s Largest Park: What to Expect

This safari is designed to give travelers a thorough taste of Kenya’s most expansive wilderness. Starting from Mombasa, you’ll traverse the scenic highway, arriving at Tsavo East through the Bachuma Gate. The journey itself offers a glimpse of Kenya’s landscape—vast open plains dotted with acacia trees, and perhaps, if you’re lucky, herds of elephants wandering close to the road.

Day 1: Mombasa to Tsavo East

Your adventure kicks off with pickup from your hotel or residence in Mombasa. The drive takes you along the Mombasa Nairobi highway—a smooth, comfortable ride that sets the tone for your safari. Once through Bachuma Gate, the game drive begins immediately, giving you your first wildlife sightings in Tsavo East’s iconic terrain.

Travelers often comment on the scenery en route, noting the “beautiful landscape” and the chance to spot animals even before reaching the lodge. You’ll arrive in time for lunch at your lodge, which is a good opportunity to settle in and prepare for the evening game drive. The Voi Wildlife Lodge, as the main accommodation here, offers both comfort and a good vantage point for animal sightings.

In the late afternoon, the game drive continues, focusing on animals like giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and elephants. Guides tend to be quite familiar with the park’s animal behavior and can point out rare sightings, including the elusive big cats. The evening drive is often praised for its peaceful atmosphere— with the sunset casting a golden glow over the plains, it’s a moment to remember.

Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Tsavo East

Following breakfast, you’ll head out for a full day of wildlife viewing. With a knowledgeable guide, your chances of spotting the Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—are high. The open spaces of Tsavo East, especially the prominent mud lodges and waterholes, attract large herds of elephants and other game.

Reviews emphasize the importance of patience and alertness. One traveler shared, “We loved the way our guide kept us entertained with facts about animal behavior and local ecology—made the experience much richer.” A picnic lunch in the park allows you to stay out longer, maximizing your wildlife encounters.

Day 3: Moving to Tsavo West and Visiting Mzima Springs

Early morning, you’ll depart for Tsavo West, another distinct part of the park. The drive itself is scenic, with views of the rugged landscape and occasional wildlife sightings. One of the highlights here is Mzima Springs, a vital water source with crystal-clear waters.

You’ll walk to an underwater observation chamber—this is a special experience, watching hippos and crocodiles glide past the viewing window. Many reviews highlight this as a top photo opportunity, with the spring’s calm waters offering a peaceful contrast to the busy plains.

Lunch is enjoyed in the park, followed by a relaxing evening at Saltlick Lodge. This lodge is renowned for its spectacular setting, often featured in wildlife photography collections. The accommodations are comfortable, blending luxury with safari charm, and the lodge’s vantage points promise stunning sunset shots.

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Day 4: Exploring Taita Hills Conservancy

The next day, you’ll venture into the Taita Hills Conservancy, a private reserve known for its dramatic hills and high wildlife density. The morning game drive provides a different perspective, with fewer travelers and more exclusive sightings.

Following lunch, a short rest at Saltlick Lodge prepares you for an evening game drive, timed perfectly during the golden hour. These sunset drives are often described as magical, with animals like giraffes silhouetted against the sky and lions prowling in the distance. Travelers consistently mention how the guides’ local knowledge enhances these moments.

Day 5: Final Morning and Return to Mombasa

Before returning to Mombasa, a brief morning game drive offers a last chance to spot wildlife. Travelers note that the Taita Hills Conservancy’s short drive is worthwhile for those who enjoy quiet, less crowded reserves.

The return trip is about 4-5 hours, with scenic views and wildlife sightings along the way. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Mombasa, wrapping up a trip packed with memorable moments.

What Does the Price Include and What’s Not?

This safari is priced at $1,936 per person, which considering the inclusions, offers good value. You get game drives, picnic lunches, dinners, and overnight stays at quality lodges like Saltlick. Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or residence within Mombasa are also included, making logistics straightforward.

However, extras like gratuities and drinks (alcoholic or otherwise) are not included. Many travelers suggest tipping guides and lodge staff, which can enhance your experience and is customary in safari settings.

The flexibility of reserving and paying later, along with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, makes planning easier, especially if travel plans are subject to change.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility. While not explicitly mentioned, reviews imply that groups tend to be small, allowing for personalized attention and better wildlife spotting opportunities. The timing is optimized for wildlife activity—early mornings and late afternoons—maximizing your chances to see animals in their natural habitat.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate large-scale, authentic wildlife experiences in Kenya. Animal lovers, photographers, and those wanting to see the Big 5 will find it especially rewarding. It’s also ideal for those seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation, with comfortable lodges and beautiful scenery.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, immersive safari with knowledgeable guides and iconic lodges, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Kenya’s wildlife and landscape.

FAQ

Is this a private activity? Yes, the tour is private, which means you won’t be sharing the game drives with strangers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Where do pickups and drop-offs occur? They are from apartments, hotels, or private residences within Mombasa, ensuring convenient access.

What animals might I see? Expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and possibly lions, leopards, and rhinos—especially in the early morning and late afternoon game drives.

How long are the game drives? Each game drive typically lasts several hours, focusing on the best times for animal activity, especially during sunrise and sunset.

What is Saltlick Lodge known for? It’s renowned as one of the world’s most photographed lodges, offering stunning views and excellent photographic opportunities, especially during the evening.

Can I cancel or change my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and keep your plans flexible with the “reserve & pay later” option.

Is food included? Yes, picnic lunches are included on full-day drives, with dinners and overnight stays at lodges. Drinks like alcohol are not included.

This 5-day Tsavo safari offers a comprehensive journey into Kenya’s largest national park—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a mix of adventure and comfort. With prime wildlife sightings, the chance to photograph iconic animals, and stays at luxurious lodges like Saltlick, it delivers strong value for your investment.

The carefully crafted itinerary balances activity with relaxation, making it suitable for first-time safari-goers and seasoned travelers alike. If your goal is to learn about Kenya’s wilderness, spot the Big 5, and enjoy beautiful scenery, this tour is a solid choice.

For those with a passion for wildlife photography, a desire to see the legendary red elephants, or simply wanting to tick off a bucket list experience in Kenya, this safari provides a memorable, authentic adventure. Be prepared for early mornings, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable animal encounters—Kenya’s wilderness awaits.

Note: Always check current travel advisories and confirm inclusions when booking, as details can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: