3 days Tsavo East and Amboseli safari from Diani/Mombasa

Exploring Kenya’s Largest Parks: A 3-Day Safari from Diani or Mombasa

If you’re dreaming of seeing elephants, lions, and giraffes against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snowy peak, then a 3-day safari to Tsavo East and Amboseli is worth considering. This tour promises immersive game drives, stunning views, and cozy lodges—making it a great blend of adventure and comfort.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to witness powerful wildlife interactions in two of Kenya’s most iconic parks. Second, the breathtaking vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, especially during sunrise and sunset, are undeniably photo-worthy. Third, the full-board accommodation with generous buffet meals ensures you’re well-fed and rested between game drives.

That said, the journey involves early mornings and long drives, which might be tiring for some. It’s best suited for travelers who value wildlife viewing and scenic landscapes over a quick-paced itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this tour offers a rewarding glimpse into Kenya’s wilderness.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Expect sightings of elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffalos, giraffes, and more.
Iconic Views: The chance to see Mount Kilimanjaro during sunrise and sunset adds a magical touch.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable drivers like Maik and Julias enhance the experience with their insights.
Comfort & Convenience: Full board lodges and transport in a safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for easy game spotting.
Flexible Booking: Keep your plans flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Ideal for: Wildlife lovers, photographers, and those seeking authentic African landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

Day 1: From Diani/Mombasa to Tsavo East

The adventure kicks off early, with a pickup from your beach hotel around 6:30 am. The drive along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway is a scenic introduction to Kenya’s landscape, and it takes approximately 3.5 hours to reach Tsavo East’s Buchuma Gate. This early start is perfect for maximizing game viewing opportunities, especially when the animals are most active.

Once inside Tsavo East, your guide will take you on your first game drive, starting with a visit to Aruba Dam—a waterhole built by British soldiers back in 1952. It’s a favorite spot for elephants and often teems with wildlife, providing a fantastic first glimpse into Kenya’s rich fauna. As Eric from the reviews noted, the guides like Maik are “very experienced” and know exactly where to find the animals, making each game drive engaging and rewarding.

The park is famous for its large herds of elephants and the possibility of seeing elusive predators like lions. The landscape here is vast and dramatic, characterized by open plains, rocky outcrops, and lush waterholes. After a few hours of wildlife spotting, you’ll head to your lodge—such as Lion Hills Lodge, Voi Safari Lodge, or Ngutuni Lodge—for lunch and a chance to relax.

In the afternoon, the game continues until late afternoon, giving you opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, zebras, and gazelles as the light softens. The reviews highlight how guides like Julias make the experience special, explaining animal behaviors and ensuring you see a variety of wildlife. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay, setting the stage for more adventures tomorrow.

Day 2: Tsavo East to Amboseli National Park

After an early breakfast, you’ll embark on a morning game drive in Tsavo East, soaking in the sights before heading south to Amboseli. This park is famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro—the highest free-standing mountain in Africa—and the chance to view it during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.

The drive from Tsavo East to Amboseli takes around two hours, with your guide pointing out interesting flora, fauna, and local stories along the way. By 1 pm, you’ll arrive at AA Lodge or similar for lunch and some downtime. The lodges are comfortable enough for resting before your late afternoon game drive.

In the late afternoon, the park’s diverse wildlife becomes vividly apparent. Expect to see herds of elephants, often congregating near the waterholes, along with lions, giraffes, ostriches, and gazelles. Reviews emphasize how guides like Maik and Julias consistently “know where to find the animals,” as well as their ability to explain animal behaviors and park ecology.

The views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli are truly special, especially as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape. This is the moment to capture those iconic photographs of elephants with Kilimanjaro in the background, a highlight for many visitors.

Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Return to Diani/Mombasa

The final day starts early with a breakfast before heading out for a morning game drive—your last chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the park’s serenity. The park is alive with activity, and guides are excellent at spotting the rarest animals, even in the early morning light.

You’ll leave Amboseli around 11 am, heading back toward the coast. Estimated arrival back at your hotel in Mombasa or Diani is around 4 pm, just in time to unwind from your safari adventures.

Looking for more options in Tsavo East National Park? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour provides an all-inclusive package, which is quite convenient. It features:

Full board accommodation at reputable lodges like Sentrim Amboseli or AA Amboseli Lodge
Transportation in a proper safari vehicle equipped with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing and photography
All park entrance fees for Tsavo East and Amboseli
Experienced guides, such as Maik and Julias, who are praised for their knowledge and punctuality
Meals and drinking water throughout the trip
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel, simplifying logistics

However, some travelers mentioned that lodges are quite basic, which might not suit those expecting luxury. The food is described as “not bad,” indicating a decent but not gourmet experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those over 95, reflecting the physical demands of early mornings and long drives. Cancelations are flexible—full refunds are available if you notify 24 hours in advance.

The Value for Money

Priced at $895 per person, this safari offers a competitive package considering the inclusions of transportation, park fees, guided game drives, and full board stays. Given the quality of guides, the stunning scenery, and the chance to see Kenya’s wildlife up close, the experience provides solid value—especially for first-timers eager to tick off many iconic species and landscapes in a short time.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Travelers

Guests like Eric and Paolo have shared their positive experiences, highlighting the expertise of guides and the stunning scenery. Paolo appreciated how the guides knew exactly where animals would be and made the experience seamless, while Eric praised Maik’s professionalism. Letizia’s review pointed out how guides like Julias went above and beyond, even suggesting a visit to a Masai village—though at extra cost.

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The Sum Up

This 3-day safari from Diani or Mombasa offers an accessible way to see Kenya’s most famous parks with expert guides and comfortable lodges. It’s suitable for wildlife enthusiasts who want a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural insights, without the hassle of planning every detail.

The emphasis on quality guiding, breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro, and abundant wildlife sightings make it a good investment for those eager to experience the heart of Kenya’s wilderness. The tour’s straightforward inclusions and flexible booking options also make it appealing for travelers seeking a reliable, hassle-free safari.

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced, well-organized introduction to Kenya’s iconic parks with plenty of opportunities for memorable wildlife encounters, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for early mornings and basic lodge amenities, and you’ll likely find it an adventure to remember.

There's plenty more to explore in Tsavo East National Park

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How early does the tour start?
Pickup from your hotel is around 6:30 am, giving you a head start for game viewing and avoiding the midday heat.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A proper safari car with a pop-up roof ensures great visibility and photography opportunities during game drives.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all park entrance fees for Tsavo East and Amboseli are covered in the package.

What accommodation is provided?
Full board stays are at lodges like Sentrim Amboseli or AA Amboseli Lodge, which are comfortable but quite basic.

Can I see Mount Kilimanjaro?
Absolutely. The views of Kilimanjaro, especially at sunset and sunrise, are one of the highlights.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those over 95.

How long is each game drive?
The itinerary includes several game drives, typically lasting until late afternoon, with breaks for meals and relaxation.

What should I bring?
A passport, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera are essential. Water is provided during the drives.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The package is fixed, but guides are knowledgeable and can offer insights or slight adjustments based on wildlife sightings.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this safari offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, perfect for those seeking a memorable adventure without unnecessary fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: