Mombasa: 3-Day Tsavo East and West Safari with Accommodation

Planning a safari in Kenya? This 3-day adventure through Tsavo East and West National Parks promises a well-rounded wildlife experience, combining game drives, nature walks, and cozy lodge stays. While the $870 per person price covers quite a bit, it’s the authenticity and variety of experiences that truly set this safari apart.

We love how this tour offers a balance of guided safaris and active exploration, including a walk to Ziwani Waterfall—something you won’t often find on standard game drives. The chance to see Big 5 animals, especially lions and elephants, in their natural habitat is a major draw. The night game drive adds a thrilling nocturnal perspective on Kenya’s wildlife. However, travelers should consider that the tour is quite packed, and early mornings mean early starts, which might not suit everyone.

This safari is ideal for those who want a deeper connection with Kenya’s wilderness, appreciate wildlife photography, or are keen to experience the parks beyond just passing through. If you’re after a memorable, well-organized adventure with a blend of activity levels, this could be a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife Variety: Spot the Big 5, hippos, crocodiles, and more in their natural habitat.
• Active Experiences: Includes game drives, a nature walk, and a night drive for diverse perspectives.
• Comfortable Stay: Accommodation at Ngutuni Safari Lodge offers a cozy base after busy days.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included, making logistics easy.
• Value for Money: All major safaris, meals, and activities are covered, providing a comprehensive experience.
• Limited for Relaxation: It’s a busy schedule, so relaxation may take a backseat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Experience

Starting From Mombasa: Convenient Pickup and Transport

The adventure begins with a pickup directly from your hotel in Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Watamu, or Malindi. This all-inclusive pickup and drop-off service simplifies travel arrangements—no fussing with taxis or independent transfers. The transfer itself is a comfortable drive filled with anticipation, as the landscape shifts from coastal towns to the bushveld.

Day 1: Tsavo East – First Encounters with Wildlife

Expect an early start around sunrise, as your safari begins with a drive into Tsavo East National Park. The first game drive is the chance to see iconic African animals: mighty elephants with their characteristic red dust, graceful antelopes, zebras, water buffaloes, and potentially lions lounging in the early morning sun.

Travelers who’ve previously done safaris comment on how the guides excel at spotting animals, even in dense bush. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was amazing at finding wildlife, and the big elephants at Tsavo East were a highlight.” The morning drive typically lasts until mid-morning, after which a hearty lunch at Ngutuni Safari Lodge offers a welcome break.

The afternoon game drive runs from 4 to 6 pm, offering a different perspective as animals become more active before sunset. Expect the chance to see elusive predators like leopards or waterbucks that come out in the cooler hours. The park’s landscape, with its open plains and acacia trees, makes for fantastic wildlife photography.

Night Game Drive: A Thrilling Twist

After dinner, you’ll head out for a night game drive between 6:30 and 7:30 pm. This is where things get exciting. Seeing nocturnal animals such as hyenas, owls, and perhaps even a leopard stalking its prey adds a whole new dimension to your safari experience. Many reviews highlight this as a standout feature, with one guest mentioning, “The night drive was intense and very different from daytime safaris—seeing animals in the dark is a real adrenaline rush.”

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Day 2: Tsavo West and Ziwani Waterfall Walk

Early morning, you’ll go on a sanctuary game drive from 6:30 to 8:30 am, giving another chance to observe wildlife before breakfast. Afterward, the tour takes a scenic turn with a visit to Tsavo West for the notable Ziwani Waterfall walk. A guided nature walk here means getting close to crocodiles and hippos in their natural environment—something that many travelers find memorable and refreshing compared to the usual vehicle-based safaris.

The waterfall walk provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the ecosystem and spot water birds, crocodiles, and hippos. It also offers some fantastic photo possibilities with the waterfall and wildlife backdrop. Lunch at Ziwani Camp continues the nature theme, with chances to spot more wildlife along the way.

Post-lunch, the tour returns to Ngutuni Sanctuary for an afternoon game drive. From here, the safari’s focus is on spotting larger mammals, with reviews noting good animal sightings and attentive guides. The evening concludes with dinner and another overnight at Ngutuni Lodge, where travelers can reflect on the day’s adventures.

Day 3: Final Morning & Return to Mombasa

On the last morning, an early game drive at Ngutuni Sanctuary offers a final wildlife encounter. Guests often find that early mornings reveal the most active animals, and the guides are adept at tracking elusive species. After this, breakfast is served at the lodge, followed by a final sanctuary safari drive.

The journey back to Mombasa is straightforward, allowing travelers to arrive in time for afternoon relaxations or further explorations along the coast. Reviewers mention that the day’s timing feels well-paced, with enough time to enjoy the last sights and sounds of the bush.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Inclusion of Night Drive: The night game drive is a rare treat, allowing you to witness animals’ nocturnal behaviors often missed during standard safaris. This adds depth to your wildlife experience, especially for those interested in predator activity and night-time animal behaviors.

Guided Nature Walks: The Ziwani Waterfall walk lets you get closer to the ecosystem, observing hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds first-hand. It’s an active complement to the game drives, providing a different appreciation for Kenya’s diverse habitats.

Comfortable Accommodation: Ngutuni Safari Lodge offers a cozy retreat after long days of exploring. Its location within the safari circuit means you’re close to wildlife, and reviews commend the friendly staff and good food.

Flexible & Convenient Logistics: With hotel pickup and drop-off included, along with all transportation and activities, the tour feels seamless. The group size seems manageable, ensuring personal attention from guides.

Value for Money: For $870, you cover multiple game drives, meals, nature walks, and even a night safari. This bundling makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive safari without multiple bookings.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Pack comfortable shoes for the nature walk and early morning game drives.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water—early mornings and midday sun can be intense.
• A good camera with zoom capabilities will help capture wildlife photos.
• Be prepared for early starts, especially on days with safaris beginning around 6:30 am.
• Reviewers suggest that guides are knowledgeable, so ask questions about animal behavior and ecosystem.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who crave more than just a quick peek at Kenya’s animals. If you’re interested in active experiences like nature walks and night safaris, you’ll find this trip enriching. It also suits travelers who prefer organized logistics and comfortable accommodations, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking convenience and adventure.

However, those seeking a relaxed, slow-paced holiday might find the schedule a bit packed. Also, travelers with back problems or pregnant women should consider the early mornings and active parts carefully.

FAQs

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your beach hotel in Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Watamu, or Malindi, making logistics hassle-free.

What activities are included?
This safari features game drives in Tsavo East and West, a guided nature walk at Ziwani Waterfall, and a night game drive, all covered in the price.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals as per the itinerary are included, so you don’t need to worry about finding food during your adventure.

Can I see the Big 5?
Absolutely. The safari is designed to maximize chances of spotting the Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—alongside other wildlife.

Is there flexibility to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended to stay comfortable during game drives and walks.

This 3-day safari offers a well-rounded look at Kenya’s incredible wildlife, blending iconic game drives with active nature experiences and comfortable stays. It suits travelers who want quality wildlife sightings without sacrificing adventure or convenience, making it an excellent choice for first-timers and seasoned safari-goers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: