5 Day Tsavo [East & West] Amboseli & Taita Wildlife Park Safari Expedition

Setting out on a safari in Kenya is a dream for many travelers, and this 5-day tour promises an immersive glimpse into some of the country’s most iconic parks. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed itineraries and glowing reviews, it’s clear that this safari offers a well-rounded blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife experiences.

What stands out most are the diverse landscapes—from the expansive grasslands of Tsavo West to the lush springs of Amboseli—and the chance to see rare animals like black rhinos and big cats. Plus, the luxurious lodges and local guides with insider knowledge make each day memorable. However, the journey does involve quite early mornings and long drives, which might be tiring for some.

If you’re eager to spot a wide variety of wildlife and enjoy comfortable accommodations, this tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who value a comprehensive experience with plenty of game viewing opportunities. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a bit of travel time in exchange for seeing multiple parks in one trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Tsavo West & East, Amboseli, and Taita Hills.
• Experienced guides and well-organized logistics enhance the experience.
• Diverse landscapes and wildlife provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Luxury lodges and delicious meals add comfort to the adventure.
• Long early mornings and travel times require good stamina.
• The tour offers great value for those wanting an all-in-one safari in Kenya.

An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Safari Experience

Starting Strong at Tsavo West National Park

The journey begins with a 6:00 am pickup in Mombasa, setting the tone for a full day of adventure. The drive along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway takes about two hours to reach Tsavo West, one of Kenya’s largest and most diverse parks. A stop for coffee en route adds a touch of comfort before we dive into the game drive.

At Tsavo West, you’ll get your first glimpse of the iconic grassland savannah dotted with acacia trees and volcanic formations like Chaimu and Shetani Larva. The landscape itself offers a striking photo backdrop, especially with the golden light of early morning. The game drive to Ngulia Safari Lodge, where you’ll check-in around 1:00 pm, is your first chance to spot elephants, buffalo, and possibly even elusive predators.

The afternoon game drive is a highlight, especially if you’re lucky enough to visit the rhino sanctuary. Seeing black rhinos in the wild is quite special, and the guides are known to be knowledgeable about animal behaviors, increasing your chances of spotting them. The landscape also features stunning sights like Mzima Springs, where hippos and crocodiles lounge in water — a must-see for wildlife lovers.

Moving On to Amboseli National Park

The next morning kicks off early—around 6:00 am—to maximize game viewing. The drive to Amboseli takes roughly two hours, passing through scenic landscapes and stopping briefly at Shetani Larva for photos. Once inside Amboseli, you’ll visit Mzima Springs, a popular spot to see hippos and crocodiles, and enjoy the lush greenery fed by flowing water. The spring’s water output of over a million liters daily makes it a vital habitat for many animals.

Check-in at the Amboseli Serena Lodge around lunchtime offers a chance to relax before the evening game drive. At this point, you’ll start to notice the park’s signature feature: the breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days. The park covers just 390 km², but it’s packed with wildlife—elephants, lions, cheetahs, and big herds of buffalo are common sightings. The guides’ local knowledge really shines here, often pointing out behaviors and animal interactions that you might otherwise miss.

Day 3: Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

An early wake-up at 5:30 am means you’re out before dawn, a prime time for spotting predators like lions and leopards. The early game drive is a favorite among seasoned safari-goers because animals tend to be more active in the cooler morning hours. Breakfast at the lodge is a quick refuel before heading south to Taita Hills.

Arriving at the Taita Hills Lodge in the early afternoon, you’ll find yourself in a different landscape — a private sanctuary with a salt lick that draws animals like elephants, zebras, and antelopes right up to the waterhole. The water hole is often described as a “famous spot” for wildlife watching, with many reviewers noting how close animals come, giving a more intimate experience. The game drive in the late afternoon continues to offer views of animals at the salt lick, which is a significant advantage of this part of the trip.

Exploring Tsavo East and the Yatta Plateau

The final two days focus on Tsavo East, the largest park in Kenya, known for its red elephants and dramatic scenery like Lugard Falls and Aruba Dam. The early morning game drives—starting as early as 5:30 am—are designed to catch animals during their most active hours.

Voi Safari Lodge offers a comfortable base for these explorations. Expect to see the Yatta Plateau, a vast volcanic formation, and possibly spot leopards, cheetahs, and other predators stalking prey or resting in the shade. The landscape is both rugged and beautiful, with impressive water bodies like Voi River providing water for the wildlife.

The Final Morning and Returning Home

On the last day, early mornings continue with game drives until about 8:30 am, followed by breakfast and a last chance to see wildlife as the tour winds down. The drive back to Diani via Bachuma Gate offers a final glimpse of Kenya’s wild side before heading home, with travelers often feeling they’ve experienced a true wildlife adventure.

Considerations and Practicalities

This safari is quite packed, with early mornings and long drives—sometimes up to 100 km between parks—so it’s best suited for travelers with good stamina and a love for wildlife photography. The inclusion of luxury lodges and meals ensures comfort amid the adventure, but keep in mind that alcohol and drinks of personal choice are not included, so budget accordingly.

The price of $1,610 per person covers park entrance fees, accommodations, transportation, and meals, making it a solid value considering the scope of the trip. The tour’s private group setup means you’ll have a more personalized experience, with guides who are familiar with the parks and the best spots for wildlife sightings.

One of the most praised aspects from past guests is the stunning views and the well-managed logistics, with one reviewer mentioning that “everything worked flawlessly” and highlighted the quality of lodges and guides. However, the early start times and the possibility of long days may not suit everyone, especially travelers looking for a more relaxed pace.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour offers an authentic and immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see diverse parks, from Tsavo’s vast plains to Amboseli’s famous elephants and the scenic Taita Hills. It’s ideal for those who want to cover a lot of ground in a short time, enjoy comfortable accommodations, and appreciate expert guiding.

Travelers who enjoy photography will find plenty of opportunities, especially at waterholes and during sunrise or sunset drives. It’s also perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a well-organized adventure with all logistics handled for you.

If you’re after a comprehensive experience that balances wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and comfortable lodges, this safari could be a great pick. Just remember to pack your early mornings, a good camera, and an open mind ready for many memorable encounters.

FAQ Section

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers accommodation, meals, park entrance fees, and transportation throughout the safari.

Are airport transfers offered?
Pickup from your hotel in Mombasa is included, but specific details about airport transfers aren’t mentioned, so you might need to arrange this separately.

How many animals can I expect to see?
While wildlife sightings depend on many factors, the itinerary’s focus on key parks means you can expect elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelopes.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for early mornings, layers for changing weather, camera gear, binoculars, and sun protection.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the early mornings and long drives might be tiring for young children.

What kind of guides will I have?
Experienced driver-guides with local knowledge will be with your group, enhancing wildlife sightings and answering questions.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks of personal choice are not included, so bring some water or purchased beverages.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives typically start early in the morning and last around 2-3 hours, with additional drives in the late afternoon.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

In closing, this 5-day safari offers a well-rounded Kenyan wildlife experience, blending scenic landscapes, close encounters with animals, and quality accommodations. Perfect for those who want to see a wide array of parks without the hassle of planning multiple trips, it’s an excellent choice for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike.