5 days Tsavo East, West, Amboseli & Saltlick lodge safari

If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants wandering under the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, lions basking in the sun, or giraffes gracefully munching on acacia branches, a safari journey through Kenya’s most iconic parks might be just what you need. This 5-day safari offers a thorough exploration of Tsavo East & West, Amboseli, and Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, delivering a blend of wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and cozy lodges—all for around $1,980 per person.

What makes this experience appealing? We appreciate the chance to see large herds of elephants and the chance to witness famous red elephants in Amboseli, the iconic man-eating lions of Tsavo, and the spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The full-board accommodations at well-rated lodges also add a layer of comfort to what is otherwise a busy game-viewing schedule.

A potential consideration is the pace—this trip involves early mornings and a good deal of driving, which might not suit travelers looking for a completely relaxed or luxury-focused experience. But for those eager to maximize wildlife sightings in a short span, this tour hits many high notes. It’s ideal for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and first-time safarists wanting an authentic taste of Kenya’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Wildlife Diversity: Spot elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and ostriches.
• Iconic Views: Enjoy the breathtaking sight of Mt. Kilimanjaro from Amboseli.
• Comfort & Convenience: Full board at quality lodges and safaris in proper vehicles with pop-up roofs.
• Historic Sites: Visit Aruba Dam, a colonial-era waterhole with a rich history.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable driver guides, some reviews highlight charismatic guides like Chris, who made game drives particularly engaging.
• Flexible Booking: Option to reserve your spot now and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Coast to Tsavo East

Starting early from Mombasa, Diani, or Nairobi, you’ll be picked up at 6:30 am and head along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway. The drive is about 3 to 4 hours, giving you time to settle into the safari vibe. Arriving at Buchuma Gate around 10 am, your first game drive begins almost immediately.

This first game drive through Tsavo East is particularly exciting — the mention of Aruba Dam, a waterhole built during colonial times, hints at the mix of wildlife and history this park offers. Expect to see large herds of elephants, which are especially prominent in Tsavo, along with lions, buffalo, zebras, and giraffes. The guides often emphasize the chance to see man-eating lions, a hauntingly fascinating part of Tsavo’s history, but don’t worry — these cats are mostly a thing of the past, though sightings still thrill visitors.

By 1:30 pm, you’ll head to your lodge (either Voi Safari Lodge or Voi Wildlife Lodge) to check-in and enjoy a hearty buffet lunch. The post-lunch relaxation is ideal for unwinding after the morning’s excitement, with time for a short rest before embarking on an evening game drive. As the sun dips, the landscape becomes even more magical, with animals moving about and the bush glowing in golden hues.

Day 2: From Tsavo East to Tsavo West

The early morning game drive in Tsavo East is a highlight, with the chance to see elephants and perhaps elusive predators. After breakfast, you’ll depart for Tsavo West, a journey that takes about 4 hours, allowing you to enjoy the changing scenery along the way.

Arriving at Ngulia Safari Lodge or Severin Safari Camp around midday, you’ll have lunch and some downtime. The afternoon game drive in Tsavo West offers the opportunity to see Mzima Springs, famous for its hippos and crocodiles, and possibly more big cats. Many reviews praise the guides’ ability to spot wildlife efficiently, even in the vastness of Tsavo West.

Day 3: Tsavo West to Amboseli

Another early breakfast kicks off the day, followed by a game drive that includes a visit to Mzima Springs before heading toward Amboseli National Park. The drive takes roughly 4 hours, but the anticipation builds with the promise of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak towering in the background — a view you’ll love to capture.

Lunch awaits at Sentrim Amboseli Lodge or Kilima Safari Camp. Post-lunch, you’ll venture into Amboseli for an afternoon game drive. The park is known for its large herds of elephants and stunning vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, often called the “Biggest Bird Bath” thanks to its plentiful water sources attracting numerous animals.

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Day 4: Amboseli & Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

The morning begins with an early game drive in Amboseli, where elephants are everywhere, and panoramic views of Kilimanjaro provide an unforgettable backdrop. After breakfast, you’ll leave Amboseli around 9:30 am and make your way to Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.

Arrival around 1 pm allows for lunch at Taita Hills Resort and then a check-in at Salt Lick Lodge, famed for its elevated position and stunning views of the sanctuary. The afternoon game drive offers more chances to see buffalo, giraffes, cheetahs, and other species, with some reviews highlighting the close encounters and photogenic landscapes.

Day 5: Taita Hills & Return Journey

The last morning begins with an early game drive in Taita Hills, giving you one final chance to see the wildlife in action. After breakfast, you’ll leave around 9 am to start the journey back to Mombasa, Diani, or Nairobi.

Arriving by around 3:30 pm, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, ending your Kenyan wildlife adventure. The trip covers a lot of ground and wildlife in just five days, making it a packed but rewarding experience.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s value is evident in what’s included: full board accommodation at all lodges, park entrance fees, transport in a proper safari vehicle—with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing—and professional driver guides. Water is also provided throughout, which is a big plus given the long days.

However, extras like beers or Champagne are not included, so if you’re looking to toast a sunset, prepare to bring some along or buy at lodges. The flexible booking policy is convenient, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Transport & Comfort

Traveling in a proper safari vehicle with a pop-up roof makes game viewing easier and photography much better — a favorite among reviewers. The vehicles are spacious enough for groups, and the guides are experienced, often making good jokes or sharing interesting facts that enhance the experience.

Lodging & Meal Quality

While the lodges are functional and comfortable, they lean more toward practical than luxurious. The buffet meals are generally praised for their variety and quality, providing enough fuel for the busy days. Some travelers note the lodges can get quite cold at night, so packing a warm layer is wise.

Wildlife & Scenery

The biggest draw here is undoubtedly the chance to see large herds of elephants, lions, and other wildlife in their natural environments. Many reviews mention the spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli, which add a layer of awe to your photo collection.

Guides & Experience

The guides are often highlighted as knowledgeable and personable, making the game drives both educational and fun. Notably, some reviews mention Chris, who kept everyone entertained and helped spot elusive animals, making the drives memorable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Safari for You?

This 5-day Kenya safari offers a comprehensive taste of the country’s top wildlife parks, with a good balance of nature, comfort, and adventure. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to cover multiple parks without sacrificing the richness of the experience. The affordability combined with quality lodges and expert guides makes it a solid value for wildlife lovers and those new to safaris alike.

If you love large herds of elephants, iconic mountain vistas, and the thrill of seeing big cats in action, this tour hits many high points. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a busy schedule packed with game drives, without too much downtime. Keep in mind, the early mornings and long drives require a good level of energy and patience.

This safari offers a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and stunning scenery—an excellent way to truly experience Kenya’s wild heart in just five days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation in a proper safari vehicle included?
Yes, the tour uses proper safari cars with pop-up roofs designed for game viewing and photography, making the drives more enjoyable and comfortable.

What is the accommodation like?
All lodges and camps offer full-board meals, with a focus on comfort and practicality. They provide a cozy base for nightly rests after full days of game drives.

Are park entrance fees included?
Absolutely. The price covers entrance fees for Tsavo East & West, Amboseli, and Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.

Can I see the Big Five?
While the itinerary isn’t guaranteed to see all five, it offers high chances of spotting elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos, especially with experienced guides.

What should I bring?
Pack your passport, comfortable clothing, a camera, sunglasses, and some extra layers for cooler evenings at the lodges.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers over 2 years old and under 95, given the early mornings and long drives. Always check with the provider if traveling with children.

To sum it up, this safari is a fantastic introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, especially for those wanting an immersive experience without a prohibitive price tag. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and unforgettable scenery, it’s a trip that promises memorable encounters with Africa’s most iconic animals. Perfect for adventure seekers eager to see elephants, lions, and Mt. Kilimanjaro all in one go, this tour offers true value and a chance to connect deeply with Kenya’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: