2 days Tsavo East and saltlick safari from Diani/Mombasa

If you’re dreaming of a quick yet immersive escape into Kenya’s wildlife, this 2-day Tsavo East and Saltlick safari offers a chance to see some of the country’s most iconic animals with minimal fuss. While it’s a short trip, it’s packed with memorable moments, stunning scenery, and expert guiding—all for a reasonable price of $625 per person.

From the start, this tour impresses with its blend of authentic safari drives and luxury lodge stays. You’ll explore vast national parks, get up close to elephants and lions, and relax in a uniquely designed lodge perched over water holes, offering panoramic wildlife views. But, as with any short safari, travel time is a consideration—you’ll spend a fair bit of it in transit, which might cut into your game viewing time.

What we particularly like are the knowledgeable guides, the spectacular scenery from Salt Lick Lodge, and the chance to visit Aruba Dam with its historical significance. The only potential downside? It may feel a bit rushed for those wanting a leisurely, in-depth safari. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Kenya’s wildlife without taking too much time out of their trip.

This tour is ideal for those who prefer organized, guided experiences that combine game drives with comfortable, full-board accommodations. It’s also well-suited for travelers based in Diani or Mombasa who want a quick escape into nature, with everything taken care of from transport to meals.

Key Points

Authentic Wildlife Viewing: The tour features game drives in Tsavo East and Taita Hills, where you’ll encounter elephants, lions, buffalos, giraffes, and more.

Expert Guides: Participants have praised the knowledgeable guides, who add valuable insights and enhance the overall experience.

Stunning Lodge Accommodation: Salt Lick’s unique stilted structure offers panoramic views of the wildlife and landscape, making your stay memorable.

Historical & Iconic Stops: Visiting Aruba Dam, built during colonial times, gives a glimpse into Kenya’s colonial past alongside wildlife.

All-Inclusive Value: The price covers transport, park fees, meals, and accommodation, making it a hassle-free experience.

Time Efficiency: The tour is tightly scheduled, which maximizes game viewing but leaves little room for extended exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Diani/Mombasa to Tsavo East & Taita Hills

Early starts are typical with safaris, and this tour is no exception. You’ll be picked up around 5:00 am, and after a scenic drive along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, arrive at the Bachuma gate of Tsavo East around 8:00 am. The morning game drive begins with a focus on Tsavo East’s most famous watering hole, Aruba Dam. Built in 1952 by the British Army, this site is more than just a waterhole; it’s a magnet for wildlife, especially elephants. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way the guide explained the history of Aruba Dam—it added a layer of context to the sightings.”

Expect to see elephants, possibly the elusive man-eating lions the park is famous (or infamous) for, along with buffalo, zebras, and various antelope species. The morning drive is an exciting introduction, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos through the open pop-up roof of the safari vehicle.

Around noon, you’ll leave Tsavo East and head towards Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary for lunch at the Salt Lick Lodge, which offers full-board service. Here, the structure itself is a spectacle—built on stilts with rondavel-inspired towers connected by open-air bridges, it’s an ideal spot for photography and wildlife viewing from your balcony or the water holes below.

Day 2: Game Drives & Departure

The morning begins with an early breakfast, giving you time for a second game drive in Taita Hills. This sanctuary is known for its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife including lions, ostriches, gnus, gazelles, and giraffes. The guides are experienced and enthusiastic, making each sighting informative and engaging. One reviewer said, “Our guide was excellent, pointing out details I wouldn’t have noticed myself.”

By 10:30 am, you’ll start heading back toward Mombasa or Diani. The drive offers a final chance to take in the scenery and reflect on the wildlife encounters. Expect to arrive back around 4:00 pm, ready to return to your hotel or beach resort.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The highlight of this safari is the Salt Lick Lodge. Its elevated design gives breathtaking views of the wildlife in their natural habitat. Many guests comment on how special it is to watch elephants and buffalo from the comfort of your room or balcony.

Aruba Dam is another standout. Built during colonial times, it’s a historical site as well as a wildlife hotspot—perfect for those interested in the history behind the landscape.

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife you might overlook. According to a review, “A great trip and an excellent guide,” emphasizing how much guides can elevate the experience.

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Practical Aspects & Value

For $625, this tour offers full transportation in a safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, all park entrance fees, full-board accommodation, and meals. This kind of all-inclusive package simplifies planning and reduces unexpected costs. The price is reasonable when you consider the quality of accommodation and the number of game drives included.

However, the trip’s schedule is quite packed, with early mornings and long drives. If you prefer a slow-paced safari with more leisure time, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those who want a concentrated experience of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, it hits the mark.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included:

• Accommodation at Salt Lick Lodge
• Transportation in a safari vehicle with viewing-friendly features
• All park entrance fees for Tsavo East and Taita Hills
• Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel
• Drinking water and guide assistance

Not Included:

• Extra drinks like beer or champagne—so don’t forget to bring your favorites or purchase from the lodge

Final Thoughts

This safari provides an excellent snapshot of Kenya’s wilderness, making it perfect for those on a tight schedule or first-time visitors wanting a reliable, guided experience. The stunning lodge accommodations and expert guides ensure that even a short trip feels meaningful and immersive.

If you’re seeking a well-organized adventure that balances game viewing with luxurious comfort, this tour hits the right notes. The knowledgeable guides and iconic stops like Aruba Dam really bring the experience alive, enhancing your understanding of Kenya’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.

While it’s a quick trip, the memories you’ll make—watching elephants cross at sunrise or lions lounging in the shade—are sure to stick with you. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of the savannah without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Who Would Love This Safari?

• First-time visitors to Kenya eager to see iconic wildlife in a short time
• Travelers seeking a guided, hassle-free experience with everything organized
• Those interested in staying in a distinctive lodge with panoramic views
• Visitors based in Diani or Mombasa wanting a quick escape into nature
• Photographers looking for prime wildlife viewing opportunities
• People who appreciate knowledgeable guides and detailed explanations
• Travelers with a moderate budget looking for value-packed adventure

FAQs

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You’ll be picked up around 5:00 am, which is typical for safari mornings, to maximize game viewing during the cooler part of the day.

What kind of vehicle is used for the game drives?
A safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, designed for better visibility and photography, making game spotting easier.

Is full board accommodation included?
Yes, all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are provided at Salt Lick Lodge, ensuring a comfortable stay without extra costs.

Can I customize or cancel my booking?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What wildlife might I see?
Elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, ostriches, gnus, and gazelles are common sightings during the game drives.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 5 years old, which is typical for safaris due to the early start and long drives.

How long are the game drives?
The first drive is in the morning, with a second in the afternoon, lasting several hours each, focusing on spotting as much wildlife as possible.

What’s unique about Salt Lick Lodge?
Its on-stilts design offers panoramic views of the surrounding water holes and wildlife, creating a memorable safari atmosphere.

How do I get to the parks from Diani or Mombasa?
You’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven directly to Tsavo East and Taita Hills, with transportation included.

Is there any historical significance to Aruba Dam?
Yes, it was built during colonial times by the British Army in 1952, offering a glimpse into Kenya’s colonial past alongside wildlife observation.

This 2-day safari offers a rewarding, efficiently paced experience for travelers eager to see Kenya’s wildlife in a comfortable, guided setting. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or a first-time visitor, it promises a memorable adventure with excellent guides, iconic sights, and stunning lodge views.

You can check availability for your dates here: