5days Tour Tsavo East & west, Amboseli from Mombasa / Nairobi

Planning a safari through Kenya’s southern parks can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially with so many options out there. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what to expect. This 5-day adventure, priced at $1,099 per person, offers a well-rounded experience of some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife habitats—Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Amboseli. It’s a guided journey that balances exciting game drives with enough downtime to soak in the scenery and relax.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive coverage—visiting three major parks in a manageable timeframe—making it ideal for travelers with limited days but a strong desire for authentic wildlife encounters. The inclusive pricing covers accommodation, entrance fees, and transportation, which simplifies planning and gives real value for what is a premium safari experience. Plus, the tour’s peace of mind—with all logistics handled—means you can focus on spotting elephants, lions, and other wildlife.

Of course, one consideration might be the group size and schedule—if you prefer private, ultra-flexible trips, this might feel a bit structured. Also, the early starts and long game drives (up to 12 hours each day) require a good level of stamina and patience. This tour suits those eager to explore Kenya’s wilderness on a guided schedule that balances adventure with comfort, ideal for first-timers or those wanting a hassle-free safari experience.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package simplifies planning with park fees, accommodation, and transportation covered.
• Multiple parks in one trip—Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Amboseli—offer diverse wildlife and landscapes.
• Expert guides enhance the experience, with reviewers highlighting guides like Peter for their knowledge and off-the-beaten-path driving.
• Long game drives maximize wildlife viewing chances but require stamina.
• Flexible itinerary with a mix of game drives, relaxation, and picnic lunches.
• Booking ahead (average 57 days in advance) ensures you secure your spot for this popular safari.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tsavo East National Park

Starting early from Mombasa, you’ll head to Tsavo East, a place famous for its expansive landscapes and large herds of elephants. The drive itself is a highlight, as the scenery shifts to open plains dotted with acacia trees and roaming wildlife. Arriving at Voi Safari Lodge, you’ll have a chance to settle in before your first game drive. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, and possibly lions lounging in the shade.

The day’s game drives, which last around 12 hours, are designed to maximize your wildlife encounters. The review from KarlHeinz_S notes, “Tsavo East and Tsavo West impressed with broad landscapes and plenty of animals,” emphasizing how the vastness of the parks offers plentiful photo opportunities. The guided drives often venture onto less-traveled paths, giving you a more intimate look at Kenya’s wilderness.

Day 2: Tsavo West National Park

The second day involves breakfast before venturing into Tsavo West, renowned for its volcanic landscapes and the Mzima Springs—famous for hippos and crocodiles. The drive to Ngulia Safari Lodge provides more chances to spot elephants, buffalos, and perhaps a predator or two lurking nearby.

This park’s varied terrain means you’ll see lush springs, rocky outcrops, and open savannahs. Reviewers mention that guides like Peter are skilled at navigating these terrains, offering insights into animal behaviors and park ecology. Relaxing in the lodge in the afternoon, you’ll recharge for more game drives later in the day, where elephants are particularly abundant.

Day 3: Amboseli National Park

Traveling to Amboseli is like entering a different world. It’s famed for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large elephant herds. The journey involves a security convoy, adding a layer of safety that’s appreciated by many travelers, especially those unfamiliar with remote safaris.

Once at Amboseli, you can expect to check in and go on your first game drive. The park’s open plains are perfect for spotting elephants, lions, cheetahs, and a host of bird species. The guide’s expertise, as highlighted in reviews, enhances the experience, making sure you don’t miss the best wildlife moments. The park’s scenery is so iconic that many guests find themselves stopping for photos at every turn.

Day 4: Full Day in Amboseli

This is the highlight for many—spending a full day in the park. You’ll leave after breakfast with packed lunch, heading to observation hill for a picnic while soaking in views of herds of elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Expect guided game drives throughout the day, with the chance to see predators stalking prey, herds of zebras, wildebeest, and perhaps a cheetah or two.

Reviewers emphasize the richness of Amboseli’s wildlife and the skill of guides who often find unique animal behaviors. The full-day schedule allows you to explore different parts of the park, from wetlands to open plains, ensuring a broad perspective on Kenya’s wildlife.

Day 5: Return to Mombasa or Nairobi

On the final day, the tour wraps up with breakfast before heading back to Nairobi or Mombasa. For those returning to Mombasa, a first-class train ticket from Emali station is arranged, offering a comfortable way to conclude your safari. The long drive back provides time to reflect on the trip, with many travelers sharing how much they’ve seen and learned.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Efficient and Well-Organized

The tour’s structure means you visit three major parks without feeling rushed. The itinerary balances full-day game drives with time to relax at the lodges, which are included in the price. The early morning starts maximize wildlife sightings, a critical aspect of any safari.

Expert Guidance

Guides like Peter receive praise from reviewers for their local knowledge and driving skills, often going off-road to find elusive animals. Their ability to share insights makes a big difference, especially for first-time safari-goers.

All-Inclusive Convenience

The package covers park fees, accommodation, transportation, and meals, allowing you to focus on the experience itself. The inclusion of a T-shirt and bottled water adds small but nice touches of hospitality.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

Reviewers mention the expansive landscapes and diverse animals—large herds of elephants, big cats, hippos, crocodiles—all within reach of accessible game drives. The parks are well-kept and offer different scenery, from the savannahs of Tsavo to the wetlands of Amboseli.

Price and Value Analysis

While $1,099 is a significant investment, it covers most costs: lodging, park fees, meals, transportation, and guiding services. The reviews indicate that the guides’ expertise and the quality of the parks visited justify the price. For travelers eager to see Kenya’s iconic wildlife with minimal hassle, this tour offers strong value, especially considering the logistics are handled for you.

Booking and Flexibility

Most travelers book about 57 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour allows some flexibility if plans change unexpectedly. It’s also a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the experience’s intimacy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is perfect for first-time visitors to Kenya wanting a rundown of its wildlife parks. It suits those eager for guided comfort without sacrificing the thrill of spotting lions, elephants, and rhinos. It’s also a good choice for travelers with limited time but big wildlife dreams, offering a balanced mix of activity and leisure.

If you prefer private, highly tailored trips, or want to customize how many hours you spend game-driving each day, you might find this tour somewhat structured. But for those valuing ease, inclusiveness, and expert guidance, this is a solid option.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,099 fee covers park fees, professional guide/driver, bottled water, T-shirt, accommodation, transportation, as well as all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trip.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, making it more personalized.

What kind of transportation is used?
Transportation is included for all park visits, likely a comfortable vehicle suited for game drives, with pickup from your hotel.

How many days are spent in each park?
You spend one day in Tsavo East, one in Tsavo West, and two in Amboseli, with the final day dedicated to returning.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the trip, with packed lunches for full-day game drives.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, a good camera, and personal essentials. Lodges provide bedding and basic amenities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but long drives and early mornings might be tiring for younger kids. Confirm with the operator if needed.

How do I get to the starting point?
The tour starts at 7:00 am with pickup from your hotel in Mombasa or Nairobi, arranged by the tour operator.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Primarily elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species—depending on the park and time of day.

This 5-day safari from Mombasa or Nairobi offers a well-rounded taste of Kenya’s most iconic parks. It combines the thrill of wildlife viewing with the comfort of guided tours and all-inclusive pricing. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced safari enthusiast, it promises authentic encounters and memorable landscapes—ready for your camera and your imagination.