7 Days Tsavo East, Taita, Amboseli & SanctuarySafari from Mombasa

Travelers dreaming of Kenya’s iconic wildlife will find this 7-day adventure offers a well-rounded peek at some of the country’s most celebrated parks and private sanctuaries. With expert guides, carefully curated stops, and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises a balanced mix of game viewing, scenic landscapes, and intimate wildlife moments.

What makes this trip particularly appealing is the chance to maximize sightings of the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards—while exploring diverse habitats from Tsavo’s vast savannahs to Amboseli’s Kilimanjaro backdrop. The small group size (just six travelers) ensures personalized attention and more meaningful wildlife encounters. Plus, it includes all transportation, park fees, meals, and lodges, making it a convenient package for those seeking both adventure and value.

A possible consideration is the packed itinerary, which involves early mornings and long drives; travelers should be prepared for some days with significant travel time. However, if you’re someone who loves immersive safaris and diverse scenery, this could be an ideal fit. This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, first-timers eager for iconic safaris, or seasoned travelers looking to explore Kenya’s parks with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 6 travelers) for a more intimate experience
• Includes all major park fees, meals, and transfers, providing good value
• Diverse landscapes and wildlife sightings across multiple parks and sanctuaries
• Expert local guides who deliver in-depth insights and a personal touch
• Stunning views of Kilimanjaro from Amboseli are a highlight
• Balanced itinerary with both game drives and relaxing moments at lodges

The Itinerary: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: Ngutuni Wildlife Conservancy—First Big Game Encounter

Your safari begins early with a pickup around 6:00 am at your Mombasa hotel. The drive to Ngutuni Conservancy sets the tone for the trip with its promise of exciting wildlife spotting. The game drive en route to Ngutuni Safari Lodge is likely to reveal a variety of animals—lions, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes—offering a promising start. The lodge provides a restful base for lunch and the afternoon game drive, where you’ll be on the lookout for the Big Five, as well as other species like hartebeest and impalas. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides like Agrey, who make the experience engaging and informative, often sharing insights about animal behaviors and park history.

Day 2: Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary—Diverse Species and Birdlife

After breakfast, you’ll head toward the Taita Hills Sanctuary, a private reserve renowned for its spectacular wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. The drive itself is scenic, with potential sightings of elephants, lions, and leopards along the way. The sanctuary is home to over 50 mammal species and 300 bird varieties, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Expect to see large herds of elephants, Cape buffalo, and more elusive predators like the Masai lion and leopard. The afternoon game drive offers countless chances for close-up animal encounters. Guests often appreciate the opportunity to relax at the lodge and enjoy the wildlife drinking from water ponds—a scene frequently described as captivating.

Day 3: Ziwani Sanctuary—Close Encounters on a Nature Walk

Leaving the sanctuary after breakfast, the journey continues toward Ziwani, where a lunch at Voyager Ziwani Tented Camp awaits. The highlight of this day is the nature walk, a rare chance to observe wildlife on foot. Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of antelopes, along with numerous bird species. Reviewers mention the walk as a memorable experience, with guides helping spot animals that might be hidden from a vehicle’s view. This stop adds a more personal and immersive touch to the safari, allowing you to observe Kenya’s wildlife up close without the roar of engines.

Day 4: Amboseli National Park—Iconic Kilimanjaro Views

The early morning departure takes you to Amboseli, famed for its spectacular vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro. The drive includes a game drive on the way to Kibo Safari Camp, with the possibility of seeing elephants, lions, hyenas, and cheetahs. Amboseli’s marshlands are especially good for spotting elephants, thanks to the permanent water sources. The views of Kilimanjaro are breathtaking—reviewers mention that you’ll love the way the snow-capped mountain dominates the skyline, providing a dramatic backdrop for wildlife photography. The park is also home to over 300 bird species, adding to the visual feast.

Day 5: Tsavo West National Park—Majestic Landscapes and Wildlife

Traveling to Tsavo West, the morning’s game drive offers spectacular scenery like the Shetani lava flow and Mzima Springs, inhabited by hippos and crocodiles. The park is a favorite for its large herds of elephants, rhinos, and lions. Expect breathtaking views as you traverse the expansive wilderness, with sightings of giraffes, cheetahs, and smaller mammals like bush babies. This day combines scenic drives with wildlife spotting, providing a well-rounded experience. Reviewers note the drive as one of the highlights, especially because of the chance to see large herds of elephants and the volcanic landscapes.

Day 6: Tsavo East—The Big Five and Vast African Plains

The next morning features an early game drive in Tsavo East, allowing for more wildlife sightings before heading out. Once at Voi Safari Lodge, you’ll enjoy lunch before setting off on an afternoon game drive. The park’s vast open plains are home to lions, cheetahs, zebras, and numerous antelopes. Reviews highlight the chance to spot most of the Big Five, with frequent sightings of elephants and buffalo. The park’s wide-open spaces give you a real sense of Africa’s scale and wilderness.

Day 7: Farewell Safari—Ultimate Morning Game Drive

Your last morning starts with a final game drive, then breakfast at the lodge. The drive back toward Mombasa offers one last chance to see wildlife from the vehicle, with potential sightings of lions, giraffes, or even a lurking leopard. The journey concludes with drop-off at your hotel or the airport, leaving you with plenty of memories and stunning images.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Transportation: The tour includes transfers to and from your Mombasa hotel or preferred location, making logistics hassle-free.
• Small Group: Limited to just six travelers, this ensures the guide can focus on individual interests and offer more personalized insights.
• Meals & Lodges: All meals are included, with accommodations ranging from safari lodges to tented camps—each offering a comfortable base with authentic safari ambiance.
• Guide Expertise: Reviewers mention guides like Agrey, John, and Frank as being very knowledgeable, often sharing interesting animal facts and local insights that enrich the experience.
• Timing: Early starts mean you’ll hit the parks when animals are most active, but be prepared for some long days with early mornings and late evenings.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $3,061 per person, this safari packs in a lot, from visiting three national parks and three private sanctuaries to including all park fees, meals, and transfers. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring more interaction with guides and better wildlife viewing. Plus, the variety of landscapes and animals means you’re not just ticking boxes but truly experiencing Kenya’s rich biodiversity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal if you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to see the Big Five and enjoy varied habitats. It suits travelers who appreciate expert guiding, scenic landscapes like Kilimanjaro, and authentic safari lodges. The itinerary’s balance of game drives and relaxing moments makes it perfect for those seeking a comprehensive yet manageable adventure, especially first-time visitors to Kenya.

The Sum Up

This 7-day safari from Mombasa delivers an all-in-one wildlife experience, combining iconic parks, private sanctuaries, and scenic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Small groups, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive pricing make it a compelling choice for travelers wanting to explore Kenya’s legendary wilderness without sacrificing comfort or value.

Whether you’re after big game sightings, striking landscapes, or simply a memorable adventure, this tour covers it all. Its well-paced itinerary allows you to soak in the best of Kenya’s wildlife and scenery while enjoying the personal touch of expert guides. If authentic, expertly guided safaris are your priority, this trip is likely to exceed your expectations.

FAQ

How many days does the safari last?
It lasts approximately 7 days, with a detailed itinerary covering multiple parks and sanctuaries.

What is included in the price?
The price includes 6 nights of accommodation, all meals, transfers to and from your Mombasa hotel, guide services, and park entry fees.

Is the group size small?
Yes, only up to six travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Can I customize the transfers?
Yes, transfers are flexible to and from the Mombasa location of your choice.

Are park fees included?
Yes, park entry fees are covered as part of the tour.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You can expect to see lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, leopards, and other species such as giraffes, zebras, and various antelopes.

What are the accommodations like?
Accommodations are at lodges and tented camps, with reviewers noting each as comfortable and unique in style.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves early mornings and long drives, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full safari experience.

What about guides?
Guides like Agrey, John, and Frank are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, greatly enriching the safari experience.