From Mombasa: 5-Day Safari to Tsavo East $ Saltlick Lodge

From Mombasa: 5-Day Safari to Tsavo East & Saltlick Lodge

Planning a safari that balances adventure, comfort, and genuine wildlife encounters? This 5-day tour from Mombasa to Tsavo East and West offers a well-rounded escape into Kenya’s famous national parks, with game drives, scenic stops, and stays in inviting lodges. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, this trip promises moments of awe and authentic wildlife viewing, all at a reasonable price point.

What appeals most? We appreciate the chance to see the Big Five, the variety of game drives, and the convenient mix of park adventures and relaxing lodge stays. The inclusion of the source of Mombasa’s fresh water at Mzima Springs adds a unique touch, as does the opportunity to enjoy a sunset game drive in Saltlick Lodge’s private conservancy. That said, keep in mind that long drives, typical of safaris, can feel tiring, especially with early mornings. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive Kenyan safari with good guides, comfortable accommodations, and an authentic taste of Africa’s wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot the Big Five and other animals during game drives, with multiple chances to see elephants, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and big cats.
• Diverse Stops: Visit Mzima Springs, the source of most of Mombasa’s water, and enjoy a picnic amidst the wildlife.
• Comfortable Lodges: Stay at well-rated lodges like Voi Wildlife Lodge, Ngulia Lodge, and Saltlick Lodge, known for their cozy, functional accommodations.
• Expert Guides: Benefit from professional guides who know the parks well, making wildlife spotting more rewarding.
• Flexible Experiences: Enjoy optional activities such as a Maasai village visit or a sunset game drive—adding cultural and scenic highlights.
• Value for Money: At $1,580, this package offers a lot—game drives, park entry, lodges, and meals—making it a practical choice for a comprehensive safari.

Exploring the 5-Day Safari Itinerary

Day 1: From Mombasa to Tsavo East – A Scenic Drive and a First Look at Wildlife

After being picked up from your hotel or the airport, the journey starts along the busy Mombasa-Nairobi highway, a route that’s both functional and scenic. The drive uses the Bachuma Gate to access Tsavo East, a park renowned for its red soil and vast open spaces. The drive itself sets the tone—expect to see herds of zebras, antelopes, and maybe even some elephants grazing along the roadside.

Once inside, the game drive begins en route to the lodge, which is a great way to start spotting wildlife immediately. Many travelers mention that the guide’s experience makes a difference; they’re often able to pick out signs of animals not obvious to the untrained eye. Arriving at the lodge around midday, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy a hearty lunch, surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness.

In the late afternoon, the tour departs for an evening game drive using the Voi main gate. This is prime time for predator activity—lions, leopards, and cheetahs tend to be more active now—and you’ll keep a lookout for giraffes, elephants, and buffaloes. For many guests, this first safari experience is both exciting and surprisingly peaceful, with the setting sun casting a golden glow over the landscape.

Day 2: Full Day of Game Drive in Tsavo East

This day is dedicated to exploring Tsavo East’s impressive terrain and wildlife. After breakfast, the safari continues with a morning drive, where the guides use their knowledge to locate animals hiding in the bush. The park’s expansive plains and watering holes are ideal spots for observing herds of elephants bathing or zebras grazing.

A highlight for many is the chance to witness the Big Five—if luck is on your side. The guides often share insightful stories about the animals’ behaviors, adding depth to the experience. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in the park itself, which many reviewers find memorable—nothing beats eating in the wild with animals nearby.

Travelers have noted that the safari guides are skilled at spotting animals and explaining their habitats, making the game drives more engaging. Some reviews mention that the park’s landscape is particularly scenic, with rolling hills and acacia trees contributing to a truly authentic African vibe.

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Day 3: From Tsavo East to Tsavo West – Water and Underwater Viewing

Early breakfast means an early start as you check out of Tsavo East and head toward Tsavo West. The drive offers scenic views and a chance to spot wildlife on the move. The main highlight here is a visit to Mzima Springs, a crystal-clear spring that supplies most of Mombasa’s water. The springs are a favorite stop because you can walk down to an underwater observation chamber and watch hippos and crocodiles swim below.

After the Mzima Springs visit, you’ll have a picnic lunch in the park—another opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. The afternoon drive takes you to Ngulia Lodge, perched on the edge of the park, offering panoramic views of the landscape. Many travelers appreciate this lodge’s location, which often provides a good chance to spot wildlife from the comfort of your room or balcony.

Day 4: Full Day in Taita Hills and Saltlick Lodge – A Mix of Game Viewing and Cultural Insights

This day explores the Taita Hills Conservancy, a private sanctuary that adds a different dimension to your safari. The game drive here allows you to see animals in a more intimate setting, with fewer travelers than the national parks. The terrain is hilly and lush, with wildlife often visible from elevated viewpoints.

After a relaxing lunch at Taita Hills Resort, the journey continues to Saltlick Lodge, situated within a private conservancy. This lodge is worth mentioning for its luxurious yet authentic ambiance, combining comfort with a true wild setting. Many guests enjoy the sunset game drive from 4 to 6 PM, a time when predators may be more active and the landscape glows with golden light.

Guests often find Saltlick’s location ideal for spotting big cats and elephants up close, making it a highlight of the trip. The evening game drive is a favorite, offering a chance to see nocturnal animals starting their night.

Day 5: Return to Mombasa with a Final Game Drive and Cultural Visit

The last day begins with a quick morning game drive in Taita Hills—an opportunity to spot any animals missed earlier or to see them again in softer morning light. Afterward, you’ll check out and head back toward Mombasa.

The tour includes a complimentary lunch at a local Traveller’s Motel, providing a taste of local hospitality and cuisine. Many travelers also take the chance to visit a traditional Maasai village, gaining insight into their unique culture and way of life—an enriching addition for those interested in Kenya’s indigenous communities.

Finally, the safari concludes with drop-off at your hotel or airport in Mombasa, leaving you with lasting memories of Kenya’s vibrant wildlife and scenic landscapes.

What We Love About This Safari

This tour offers a well-rounded experience — combining game drives, scenic stops, and comfortable lodges. The inclusion of the Big Five and exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities make it ideal for travelers seeking authentic encounters. The knowledgeable guides and flexible schedule help maximize your chances of seeing animals and understanding their environment.

The logistics are thoughtfully planned, with park entries, meals, and accommodations covered, making it a smooth journey. We also appreciate the chance to visit Mzima Springs, which adds a fascinating water-based perspective to your safari.

However, it’s worth noting that early mornings and long drives are part of the experience—something to consider if you prefer more relaxed travel days. The tour’s price reflects the inclusive nature, offering good value when you factor in park fees, accommodations, and guided expertise.

This experience suits travelers who want an immersive, authentic safari without sacrificing comfort, along with those who appreciate cultural touches like a Maasai village visit. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore Kenya’s famous wildlife.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day safari from Mombasa to Tsavo East and West offers a comprehensive look at Kenya’s incredible wildlife and landscapes. The carefully curated itinerary balances game drives with scenic stops, and the lodges provide cozy, authentic bases after exciting days in the bush.

The inclusion of key highlights like Mzima Springs, the Big Five sightings, and a sunset game drive ensures that you get a well-rounded experience. The guides’ local knowledge and the variety of activities offered add depth, making each day memorable.

For those looking to explore Kenya’s iconic parks in a manageable timeframe, this tour provides excellent value—blending adventure, comfort, and cultural insight into one package. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see the Big Five and experience Kenya’s wilderness without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

FAQ

What animals will I likely see during this safari?
You can expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and possibly big cats like lions and leopards. The tour is designed to maximize wildlife sightings, especially during game drives.

Are park entry fees included in the price?
Yes, the package covers game drives in Tsavo East and West, which include park entry fees, picnic lunches, and guided drives.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay at comfortable lodges such as Voi Wildlife Lodge, Ngulia Lodge, and Saltlick Lodge. These lodges are praised for their cozy atmospheres and good locations for wildlife viewing.

Is transportation provided, and what is it like?
Transportation is in a safari van, providing a good balance of space and visibility. The drive from Mombasa to the parks is scenic, taking you through Kenyan landscapes with plenty of photo opportunities.

Can I customize or add activities?
While the tour includes a Maasai village visit and optional sunset game drives, additional customization might depend on your guide or tour operator. It’s worth asking about extra options.

How strenuous is the schedule?
The tour involves early mornings and long game drives, which can be tiring but are typical of safaris. If you enjoy wildlife with some downtime, this schedule offers the right balance.

What should I pack for this safari?
Light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, and camera gear are essential. Also, bring layers for early mornings and evenings when temperatures are cooler.

In summary, this safari offers a well-organized, wildlife-rich experience that showcases Kenya’s iconic parks and animals, all while providing comfortable lodges and knowledgeable guides. Perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, adventurous, and culturally enriching safari adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: