2 Days (1 night); Tsavo East & Saltlick Safari:

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of an authentic Kenyan safari experience, the 2 Days (1 night) Tsavo East & Saltlick Safari offers a compelling way to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife without breaking the bank or needing weeks off. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vibrant picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this trip is its focus on close animal sightings during game drives, the chance to stay overnight in a well-regarded lodge, and the opportunity for a multi-park experience that captures the essence of Kenya’s wildlife. The trip’s convenience—organized transfers and included meals—adds to its appeal.

That said, a potential drawback is the early start (leaving at 5:00 am), which might feel daunting after a late night, especially for light sleepers or families with young children. Still, if you’re eager to maximize your wildlife viewing time, this schedule works well.

This safari is best suited for travelers who want a focused, value-packed wildlife adventure and don’t mind a little early morning hustle. It’s perfect for those with limited time, as well as nature lovers keen on seeing a variety of animals across two distinct habitats.

Key Points

• Wildlife Variety: You’ll encounter elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and more, including over 500 bird species.
• Two Parks in One Trip: The combination of Tsavo East and Taita Hills offers diverse landscapes and animals.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes transport, meals, and overnight stay at Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge.
• Early Start & Long Days: Starts at 5 am and involves substantial game drives, ideal for dedicated wildlife enthusiasts.
• Group Size: Small group experience (max 5 travelers) for a more personalized adventure.
• Cost & Value: At $770 per person, the price covers most essentials but consider personal expenses and optional activities.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Day 1: From Diani Beach to Tsavo East & Salt Lick

The day kicks off bright and early at 5:00 am with pickup from your hotel. The early start is necessary to maximize time inside Kenya’s largest national park, Tsavo East, through the Bachuma gate.

Expect a full day of game drives—these are the core of the experience. We loved the way the itinerary promises encounters with herds of red elephants, which are a signature sight in Tsavo, thanks to the park’s distinctive coloration from the red soil. You’ll also have sightings of lions, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, buffaloes, and waterbucks, plus hundreds of bird species including ostriches and migratory birds like kestrels.

Travelers mention that the game drives start immediately, so there’s no time wasted. We also appreciate the inclusion of all fees and taxes, so there are no surprises at the gate.

After a substantial morning of wildlife spotting, you’ll stop for lunch at Zomeni Lion Hill Lodge, which should offer a scenic respite with good Kenyan cuisine and a break from the dust and heat.

Post-lunch, you’ll transition to Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge for check-in and a relaxing evening. The lodge’s location offers a perfect base for the next day’s drives, and reviews praise it for its comfortable accommodations and strategic position.

Day 2: Wildlife Viewing & Return

The second day starts early with game drives from 6:15 am, giving you a chance to see animals when they’re most active. Early morning is often the best time for wildlife sightings—cooler temperatures and animal activity are highlights.

After breakfast at 8:30 am, you’ll continue with more game drives until early lunch at the lodge. This allows you to see even more wildlife and enjoy the surroundings before heading back to Mombasa or Diani Beach in the early evening.

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is in comfortable safari vans or Jeeps, ideal for navigating park terrains. The tour’s group size is capped at five travelers, making it a more intimate experience, which many find enhances wildlife viewing and overall comfort.

Meals & Inclusions

Meals are thoughtfully included—breakfast and dinner on the first day, breakfast and lunch on the second. Drinks are provided during the drives, which is a small but appreciated gesture. All activities outside optional extras are covered, making this a straightforward, hassle-free trip.

The Real-World Insights from Reviews

From a review by Toomas, some honest feedback reminds us that logistical issues can happen—like last-minute trip postponements. This emphasizes the importance of confirming your reservation and staying flexible.

Other reviewers highlight the value of early game drives, noting that the mornings produce the best wildlife sightings, especially lions and elephants. Several mention the small group size, which allows for more personalized attention from guides and better wildlife encounters.

One reviewer appreciated the scenic lunch stops and the overall professional organization, although others might want to prepare for a long day filled with travel and wildlife viewing.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Wildlife and Landscape

Tsavo East is renowned for its vast landscapes, red soil, and iconic elephants. Expect to see herds moving through thick bush, with the chance of spotting predators like lions or cheetahs in action—if luck’s on your side. The park’s diversity means you’ll encounter both large mammals and numerous bird species, making it a great destination for photographers and wildlife buffs alike.

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary adds a different flavor, with its semi-arid terrain and diverse animal populations. Encounters with buffalos, gazelles, and zebras are guaranteed, and the chance to see big cats improves, especially during the early drives.

Lodge Experience

Staying overnight at Sarova Salt Lick is a highlight for many. The lodge is praised for its comfortable rooms, excellent food, and game-viewing decks, which provide superb vantage points for animal sightings, even from the comfort of your room. Some reviews mention the lodges’ well-maintained grounds and attentive staff, making the stay both relaxing and authentic.

Practicalities & Tips

• Timing: The early start means you’ll need to wake up at dawn, but it’s worth it for prime wildlife viewing.
• Packing: Bring layers, sun protection, binoculars, and a camera with a good zoom.
• Group size: Smaller groups mean more flexible game drives, and guides are more attentive.
• Cost: At $770 per person, the trip offers good value considering the transportation, park fees, meals, and overnight stay.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early morning departure, which might be strenuous, especially if you’re not used to long days. Plus, reviews indicate that trip rescheduling can happen—so confirm your booking and stay in touch with the provider.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits travelers eager to see a wide range of wildlife in a short amount of time without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic but manageable adventure.

It’s also a good choice for those who value small group experiences and are prepared for long, active days. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, less structured safari, you might prefer multi-day or private options.

The Sum Up

The 2 Days Tsavo East & Saltlick Safari offers a solid wildlife experience, combining the best of Kenya’s iconic parks with comfortable lodge stays and well-organized game drives. You’ll appreciate the chance to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and more, all with the convenience of included transport and meals.

While the early start and long days may not suit everyone, dedicated wildlife lovers will find this tour delivers excellent value and memorable encounters. It’s especially well-suited for those limited on time but eager to experience the magic of Kenya’s wilderness firsthand.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic safari experience that maximizes wildlife sightings and includes thoughtful comfort, this tour could be your ideal introduction to Kenyan safaris.

FAQs

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You’ll be picked up at 5:00 am, which means waking up early to catch the best wildlife activity and make the most of your day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transport in a safari van or jeep, included in the price, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

What animals can I expect to see?
Most likely, you’ll see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, buffaloes, gazelles, and over 500 bird species. Animal sightings depend on luck and timing but are generally good.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the tour, with water provided on the game drives.

Can this tour accommodate families?
While the reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the early start and long days suggest it’s best suited for older children or adults. Always check with the provider if traveling with young kids.

What if my trip gets canceled or postponed?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. However, there is a history of trip postponements, so staying in touch with the provider and confirming your booking is wise.