3 days safari Tsavo East and Taita hills (Saltlick lodge)

Exploring Kenya’s Tsavo East and Taita Hills in Three Days

When it comes to wildlife safaris in Kenya, the 3-day Tsavo East and Taita Hills adventure stands out for its combination of accessible luxury and authentic game viewing. Though I haven’t personally taken this tour, it’s garnered glowing reviews for its star-quality wildlife sightings and well-organized itinerary. What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the chance to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and many other iconic animals in their natural habitat. Second, the stay at the Saltlick Lodge, renowned for its beautiful setting and close proximity to wildlife. And third, the convenience of a private tour that can be tailored for families or groups.

However, one thing to consider is the early start—departing at 5 am—which may be a challenge if you’re not a morning person. Still, the early hours promise prime wildlife viewing when animals are most active. This safari is ideal for travelers who want a well-paced, immersive experience without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari enthusiast, you’ll find this tour offers good value and a memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Incredible Wildlife: Expect to see lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and more, often with young animals.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private tour with hotel pickup and organized lodges simplifies logistics.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mixes early morning game drives with downtime at luxurious lodges.
• Value for Money: At $900 per person, includes all park admission fees, meals, and game drives.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by knowledgeable staff, with reviews highlighting personal touches and attentive service.
• Flexible Booking: Can be arranged as private, group, or family safaris with free cancellation options.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Safari Experience

Day 1: From Diani Beach to Tsavo East

The adventure kicks off with an early morning pickup around 5:30 am from your coastal hotel. This early start is essential—Kenya’s wildlife tends to be most active at dawn, making it the perfect time for spotting animals. The three-hour drive to Tsavo East provides a scenic introduction to Kenya’s landscape, with the journey itself building anticipation.

Once in Tsavo East, the group heads straight into game drives that last until noon. Expect to see a variety of species—lions, buffalo, elephants, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and antelopes—some with their young, as highlighted by a reviewer who remarked, “we saw lions, buffalo, elephants, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, gazelles, antelopes, and much more, including young animals—super!”

Around midday, you’ll check in at either Voi Safari Lodge or Voi Wildlife Lodge for lunch and a chance to relax. These lodges are well-positioned for easy access to the park and offer comfortable amenities. The afternoon game drive continues till approximately 6:20 pm, offering a second round of wildlife sightings during the golden hour.

This first day sets a lively, exciting tone for the trip, with plenty of animal encounters and stunning landscapes. Guides, like those praised in reviews, are often locals with deep knowledge of animal behavior, increasing your chances of sightings.

Day 2: From Tsavo East to Taita Hills

The next morning begins early again with breakfast, followed by a quick game drive until 10 am. This period often yields sightings of animals settling in for the day or heading to water sources—perfect for spotting more elusive wildlife.

Leaving Tsavo East around 10 am, you’ll drive approximately two hours to the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. The road trip offers scenic views and a chance to reflect on your morning sightings. Upon arrival, you’ll check into the Saltlick Lodge, a highlight of this tour. It’s renowned for its stunning setting—built around a waterhole and set atop a hill, offering spectacular vistas and frequent wildlife visits right at the lodge.

The afternoon game drive at Taita Hills is a longer session, running until around 6:20 pm. Visitors often raved about the variety of animals seen, including elephants, lions, and even predators like cheetahs and leopards. The lodge’s elevated position provides panoramic views, making it easier to spot wildlife from the comfort of your room or the viewing decks. Reviewers such as Silke_D highlighted the diversity of animals, including lions, buffalo, elephants, and young animals, describing the experience as “super.”

Day 3: Final Game Drive and Return to Mombasa

On the final morning, an early breakfast prepares you for the last game drive at Taita Hills. Expect to see animals in the quiet of dawn, a magical time for wildlife photography and observation. The game drive lasts until around 10 am, giving you a last chance to encounter Kenya’s iconic animals.

Afterward, you’ll check out of the sanctuary and begin the return journey to Mombasa, stopping for lunch en route at a local restaurant. This break offers a chance to reflect on your safari highlights and share stories before arriving back in the coastal city. The drive back takes roughly four hours, depending on traffic.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $900 per person covers most essentials: park admission, all meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), and guided game drives. The admission tickets are included, which simplifies planning, and the tour offers pickup from your hotel—a big plus in easing logistics.

Extras like souvenirs, drinks outside meals, tips, or cigarettes are not included—be prepared to settle your own bar tab if you choose to purchase drinks at the lodges or tips for guides and staff.

The Real Value of This Safari

For $900, you get three days of guided wildlife safaris, comfortable lodges, all park entry fees, and meals. Compared to standalone park visits or self-drive options, this package offers convenience, expert guidance, and quality accommodations, making it an appealing choice for travelers who want a hassle-free experience.

Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism of guides and the quality of sightings, with one commenting, “the guides are very knowledgeable and make sure you get the best possible experience.” The opportunity to see a broad spectrum of animals, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs, makes this trip rewarding.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This safari suits a wide range of travelers—from first-timers eager for iconic wildlife encounters to families seeking a comfortable, guided adventure. Its private nature means it can be tailored for special occasions or smaller groups. The early start may not appeal to everyone, but it’s well worth it for those who want prime game viewing and fewer crowds.

Final Thoughts

A 3-day safari to Tsavo East and Taita Hills offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and wildlife spectacle. The inclusion of luxury lodges like Saltlick Lodge, combined with expert-guided game drives, ensures a memorable experience at a reasonable cost.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a taste of Kenya’s wildlife, this tour delivers on authenticity and value. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate early mornings, scenic landscapes, and the thrill of spotting Africa’s greatest animals in their natural environment.

For those seeking a hassle-free, well-organized safari with excellent reviews backing its quality, this trip is a choice worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this safari?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from your coastal hotel, making the start of your adventure smooth and stress-free.

What animals are most commonly seen during the game drives?
Expect to see lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and antelopes. Some reviews mention sightings of cheetahs, buffalo, and even young animals, adding to the excitement.

Are meals included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast on two days, lunch on three days, and dinner on two days, covering all main meals during the safari.

Can I cancel this tour if needed?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, ensuring flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s organized as a private tour that can be tailored for families, and most travelers can participate.

What should I pack for this safari?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for early mornings and daytime heat, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and camera gear to capture the sightings. Also, consider bringing some cash for tips and personal expenses.

If you’re looking for a safari that combines frequent wildlife sightings, comfortable lodges, and a hassle-free experience, this 3-day trip to Tsavo East and Taita Hills is a compelling choice. Its strong reviews, balanced itinerary, and stunning scenery make it a trip worth considering for your Kenyan adventure.