From Mombasa:5 Days Tsavo East,West and Saltlick Lodge safar

Exploring Kenya’s Wild Side: A 5-Day Safari from Mombasa to Tsavo East, West, and Salt Lick Lodge

If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants, lions, and other iconic wildlife amid stunning landscapes, a well-organized safari can make those dreams come true. The 5-day Tsavo East and West safari from Mombasa, offered by Perfect Wilderness Tours and Safari, promises a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife moments. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, detailed reviews and itineraries paint a picture of a highly-rated experience that’s perfect for wildlife lovers and those seeking a taste of Kenya’s famous national parks.

What really catches our eye about this tour? First, the chance to see the Big Five animals—something many travelers regard as the ultimate safari milestone. Second, the combination of Tsavo East and West means diverse landscapes and ecosystems, increasing your chances of wildlife sightings. Third, the inclusion of Salt Lick Lodge, known for its stunning vistas and great photography opportunities, adds a special touch. One consideration to keep in mind is the price point at $1,600 per person, which, when broken down, offers quite a lot for the value—yet it’s still a significant investment for some travelers.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate well-organized, guided safaris, want to see the Big Five, and prefer comfortable accommodations in the middle of wild landscapes. If you’re after a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a solo wildlife quest, this trip offers plenty of value if you’re ready to embrace the safari life.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Spot the Big Five and a variety of other animals in their natural habitat over multiple game drives.
Comfort and Convenience: Stay in well-rated lodges like Voi Wildlife Lodge, Ngulia Lodge, and Salt Lick, ensuring restful nights after exciting days.
Authentic Experience: Enjoy a picnic lunch in Tsavo parks, see hippos and crocodiles at Mzima Springs, and perhaps catch a leopard at Ngulia Lodge.
Expert Guides: Travel with professional guides who know the parks intimately and can help spot elusive animals.
Varied Landscapes: Experience the contrasting environments of Tsavo East and West, plus Taita Hills Conservancy, each offering unique scenery.
Flexible Options: The tour includes optional extras like visiting a Maasai village, and you can reserve and pay later, making planning flexible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

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Day 1: Mombasa to Tsavo East

Your safari kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or the airport, followed by a scenic drive along the Mombasa Nairobi Trans-African highway. Using the Bachuma Gate, the journey is smooth, and the anticipation builds as you head into Tsavo East. A game drive en route takes you past iconic animals—giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and elephants—and sets the tone for the days ahead.

Arriving at Voi Wildlife Lodge, you’re greeted with a comfortable stay and a hearty lunch. The afternoon game drive at Voi main gate is a perfect way to start actively spotting wildlife. Reviewers mention the guides’ skill at finding animals, and many appreciated the chance to see the big cats if luck was on their side. Sunset drives are a highlight here, with animals stirring as the day cools.

Day 2: Full Day in Tsavo East

The morning begins with an early breakfast and another chance to explore the park’s vast landscapes. The game drives are designed for maximum wildlife sightings, with the park’s varied terrain providing a stunning backdrop. A picnic lunch—delivered by the tour—adds a touch of adventure while you enjoy your meal amid nature. Expect to see herds of elephants, possibly lions, and plenty of plains game.

Relaxing back at the Voi Wildlife Lodge afterward, many reviews highlight the value of relaxing with a swim or just soaking in the views. The guides’ expertise means early sightings are common, and guests often mention how they appreciated the insightful commentary about animal behavior and park ecology.

Day 3: Tsavo East to Tsavo West

After an early breakfast, you leave Tsavo East and head to Tsavo West. The journey itself offers spectacular scenery, with the landscape shifting from open plains to lush, green hills. The stop at Mzima Springs is a highlight—imagine peering into a crystal-clear spring and watching hippos and crocodiles glide past in their natural environment. It’s a rare chance to see aquatic wildlife up close without a boat.

Arriving at Ngulia Lodge in time for lunch, you’ll get a chance to settle in. One reviewer mentions the possibility of catching a glimpse of the resident wild leopard, which is a bonus if luck’s on your side. In the evening, the lodge’s prime location makes it perfect for spotting such elusive creatures and enjoying the serenity of the wilderness.

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Day 4: Tsavo West to Salt Lick Lodge via Taita Hills

Following breakfast, you journey to the Taita Hills Conservancy for a game drive and lunch at the Taita Hills Resort. This area is known for its abundant wildlife and stunning scenery, and you may spot some animals that are less common in other reserves. The highlight is the evening sunset game drive at Salt Lick Lodge, which is renowned for its panoramic views, elevated decks, and fantastic photography opportunities.

Guests frequently mention the chance to see animals coming out to graze or hunt as the sun sets. Salt Lick Lodge’s unique position overlooking a waterhole means you’re close enough to feel part of the action without disturbing it.

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Day 5: Return to Mombasa

Your final morning begins with a short game drive in Taita Hills, offering last-minute wildlife sightings. After breakfast, you’ll visit a Maasai village—a wonderful opportunity to learn about local culture, traditions, and crafts. This adds a meaningful cultural element to an otherwise wildlife-focused trip.

The journey back to Mombasa includes a complimentary lunch and drop-off at your hotel, Diani, Malindi, Watamu, or the airport, depending on your preference. Many travelers appreciate this flexible end to the safari, especially those with early flights or additional beach plans.

Transportation and Accommodation

The tour uses customized safari vehicles equipped with a pop-up roof, maximizing your wildlife viewing and photo opportunities. The guides are described as experienced professionals, ensuring both safety and insightful commentary. Accommodation ranges from the Voi Wildlife Lodge to the Ngulia Safari Lodge and Salt Lick Lodge; each offers comfortable, full-board stays designed to keep you rested and ready for the next day of adventure.

Guests consistently mention the value of staying in lodges situated in prime locations, which minimizes travel time and maximizes game viewing opportunities. The lodges are also praised for their amenities, cleanliness, and friendly staff.

Price and Value Analysis

At $1,600 per person, the cost might seem steep, but when you consider all inclusions—transport, park fees, meals, and guided game drives—the value becomes clearer. The tour covers multiple parks, offers expert guides, and includes memorable experiences like the picnic lunch at Tsavo and viewing hippos at Mzima Springs. For wildlife enthusiasts, this package offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and cultural insights, making it a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts

This safari from Mombasa to Tsavo East, West, and Salt Lick Lodge offers a comprehensive, well-structured wildlife experience. It combines the thrill of spotting Africa’s iconic animals with comfortable lodgings and knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of cultural visits and scenic stops adds depth and authenticity to the trip. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see the Big Five, explore varied landscapes, and enjoy a hassle-free, guided tour.

If you’re after a safari that delivers on wildlife, scenery, and comfort, and you’re prepared for a full, active itinerary, this tour can be a fantastic choice. The organized nature, experienced guides, and inclusive package make it a reliable, value-packed option for those looking to tick Kenya’s safari off their bucket list.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the safari?
Yes, the tour includes transport in a customized safari car with a pop-up roof, ideal for game viewing and photography.

Are park entrance fees included?
Absolutely, all park entrance fees are covered for all guests, making the process straightforward.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in comfortable lodges like Voi Wildlife Lodge, Ngulia Lodge, and Salt Lick Lodge, all with full-board arrangements.

Can I visit a Maasai village as part of this tour?
Yes, there is an optional visit to a Maasai village, which offers insights into local culture and traditions.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Mainly the Big Five—elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos—plus hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, zebras, and more.

How long are the game drives each day?
While specific durations aren’t detailed, the itinerary suggests morning and evening drives, optimizing wildlife sightings.

Is this safari suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the well-organized nature and focus on wildlife make it suitable for families with older children or teenagers.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The tour operates on guaranteed daily departures, but wildlife sightings are generally good year-round, especially during dry seasons when animals congregate around water sources.

Can I extend or customize this safari?
Yes, the company offers pay-later options and can organize drop-offs to Nairobi or other locations, facilitating customization.

This 5-day safari from Mombasa combines the best of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, offering a blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural exposure—ideal for anyone eager to experience Africa’s majestic wilderness.