Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Salt Lick and Ngutuni Safari

Discover the Wild Side of Kenya: Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Salt Lick, and Ngutuni Safari

Planning a safari that offers a blend of iconic wildlife, scenic landscapes, and authentic Kenyan camp experiences can be challenging. This tour from Frenzy Adventures Limited ticks all those boxes, guiding you through Tsavo East and West National Parks, visiting the famous Salt Lick Lodge, and spending nights at the comfortable Ngutuni Lodge. It’s a chance to see Kenya’s wildlife in their natural habitat while enjoying the comfort of well-located lodges and experienced guides.

What makes this safari appealing? First, the chance to spot large herds of elephants, including the so-called “jumbo red elephants” of Tsavo, is a highlight. Second, the visit to Mzima Springs offers a unique opportunity to see hippos and crocodiles up close, set in a lush environment. Third, the Taita Salt Lick Sanctuary provides a chance to witness animals in a stunning, natural salt lick setting, including a rare view into the underground animal tunnels.

However, a possible consideration is the early mornings—starting at 5:00 am—an aspect that might not suit everyone. The schedule is packed but designed to maximize wildlife encounters, so if you’re an early riser and wildlife enthusiast, you’ll love it. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to experience Kenya’s wildlife hotspots without the fuss of self-driving or multiple bookings, especially if you’re after a comprehensive, guided experience that takes care of all logistics.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price provides peace of mind with meals, park fees, and accommodation.
• Expert multilingual guides enhance the safari with local knowledge and insights.
• Full-day game drives maximize animal sightings like elephants, lions, cheetahs, and rhinos.
• Visit to Mzima Springs offers a close-up view of hippos and crocodiles in a scenic setting.
• Salt Lick Lodge and underground tunnels provide a rare wildlife viewing perspective.
• Comfortable stay at Ngutuni Lodge includes three nights of restful accommodation to recharge after long days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Experience

Starting Your Day Early for Maximum Wildlife Encounters

The adventure kicks off at 5:00 am, a time that might seem brutal but is strategic for catching animals when they are most active and the temperatures are cooler. The first stop is Tsavo East National Park, famous for its red elephants, large herds, and diverse landscape. The early morning game drive is about seeking out iconic animals like water buffaloes, zebras, and various antelopes.

Guests report that the guide’s ability to spot animals early is impressive; one reviewer mentioned, “Our guide, Jackson, was incredible at finding animals even in the thickest bush.” Expect to spend several hours in the park, with a break at lunchtime, when you’ll enjoy a picnic or sit down for a meal at the designated rest areas. Afterward, there’s time for a short siesta—worth doing to recharge before the afternoon safari, which continues until around 6 pm.

Exploring Tsavo West and Mzima Springs

The second day takes you to Tsavo West, a slightly more mountainous park with rugged terrain and scenic views. The full-day game drive offers chances to see animals like giraffes, cheetahs, and rhinos—a trip highlight for many. The visit to Mzima Springs is particularly special; it’s a lush oasis with clear water feeding the springs that draw hippos and crocodiles. Watching these creatures in their natural environment, especially from the viewing platforms, makes for a memorable moment.

Guests note that the picnic lunch at Mzima Springs is well-organized and allows for a relaxed break in a beautiful setting. One reviewer commented, “Seeing the hippos and crocodiles so close was surreal,” highlighting how this stop adds a different dimension to the safari experience.

The Unique Taita Salt Lick Sanctuary

On the third day, after a dawn game drive, you’ll travel to the Taita Salt Lick Sanctuary. The highlight here is the chance to observe animals like Cape buffaloes, Masai giraffes, and hartebeests, especially around the salt lick. The underground tunnel, which allows visitors to observe animals from a close yet safe perspective, is a sensory highlight. The viewing experience is often described as “remarkably intimate,” giving guests a sense of being part of the wildlife spectacle rather than just observing from afar.

Guests appreciate that the salt lick setting is different from traditional game drives, offering more focused animal encounters. Lunch is at Taita Hills Lodge, which boasts great views and a comfortable setting, making it an ideal spot to relax after hours of game viewing.

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Final Day: Early Morning Game Drive and Departure

The last morning begins with an early game drive at the sanctuary, providing a final opportunity to glimpse wildlife before heading back. After breakfast and a mid-morning drive, the tour concludes with lunch before returning to your booked beach hotel, giving you a perfect blend of safari adventure and coastal relaxation.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

This tour offers great value considering the comprehensive itinerary and inclusions. The price of $1,555 per person covers all meals, park entry fees, accommodation at Ngutuni Lodge, and professional guides. The guides are described as knowledgeable and multilingual, which can be especially helpful for international travelers.

One point to consider is that drinks outside of water are not included, so you might want to bring some extra beverages or alcohol for the evenings. Plus, while the tour covers all park fees and taxes, optional extras like souvenirs or additional drinks at lodges are not included.

Accommodation and Comfort

Staying three nights at Ngutuni Safari Lodge offers a restful base after long days of game drives. Guests often remark on the cleanliness and comfort of their rooms, along with the friendly staff. The lodge’s location makes it convenient, with easy access to the parks and scenic surroundings.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour typically involves a private or small group vehicle, ensuring good visibility and personalized attention from the guide. The early start times mean you’ll want to be prepared for long days, but most reviews mention that the experience outweighs the early mornings.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Safari?

This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat, including the iconic elephants and rare rhinos. It’s perfect if you prefer guided tours that handle all logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. The inclusion of scenic stops like Mzima Springs and Salt Lick Sanctuary makes it more than just a game drive; it’s a well-rounded experience.

Travelers with moderate fitness levels will appreciate the early mornings and full days on safari, but the comfort of Ngutuni Lodge offers a restful retreat afterward. If you’re looking for a value-packed, immersive safari with knowledgeable guides and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour makes a compelling choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All meals, drinks (water in the vehicle), park entry fees, government taxes, accommodation at Ngutuni Lodge, and a professional multilingual guide are included.

Are park fees covered?
Yes, all entry park fees are included in the price, so there are no hidden costs for entering Tsavo East, Tsavo West, or Taita Salt Lick Sanctuary.

What is the accommodation like?
You will stay three nights at Ngutuni Safari Lodge, which offers comfortable rooms, friendly service, and convenient access to the parks.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation in a private or small group vehicle is included for all game drives and transfers between parks and lodges.

Are meals included?
All meals are included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—offering a good variety and the chance to enjoy local dishes.

Can I book this tour later or cancel?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s best suited for wildlife lovers, first-time visitors to Kenya, and those who want a guided, stress-free safari experience.

Are there options for non-English speakers?
The tour guides speak multiple languages, including French, German, Polish, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for various travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing for early mornings, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture wildlife moments. Extra drinks are optional, as they are not included.

This safari offers a well-balanced combination of wildlife viewing, scenic stops, and comfortable accommodation, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience Kenya’s legendary parks without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a dedicated animal lover or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this tour provides a genuine taste of Kenya’s wilderness at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: