Nairobi: 6-Day Amboseli, Tsavo West & Taita Hills Safari

Planning a safari in Kenya? This 6-day journey offers a well-rounded experience of some of the country’s most iconic wildlife areas, including Amboseli, Tsavo West, and Taita Hills. From spotting the Big 5 to learning about Maasai traditions, it’s designed for travelers seeking authentic encounters without sacrificing comfort.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the chance to see Mount Kilimanjaro during your game drives in Amboseli. Second, the diverse landscapes—ranging from open plains to lush springs—promise captivating wildlife viewing. And third, the comfortable lodges with all meals included help keep the trip relaxed and convenient.

That said, it’s worth considering that park entrance fees aren’t included, which could add to your overall costs. This safari suits those who value guided insight, beautiful scenery, and genuine wildlife encounters, especially if they appreciate staying in cozy accommodations with meals taken care of.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Big 5: Perfect for animal lovers eager to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, and more.
• Cultural experience: Visiting a Maasai village adds an enriching local element.
• Comfort & convenience: Lodges with meals included make for a stress-free trip.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed insights.
• Scenic variety: From Mount Kilimanjaro views to lush springs and open plains.
• Flexibility: Activities like game drives and visits are thoughtfully scheduled for optimal viewing times.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Kenya Safari

This tour is crafted for those who want to see a broad swathe of Kenya’s prime wildlife areas with the comfort of guided tours and cozy lodges. The 6-day itinerary balances solid game viewing with cultural insights, making it suitable for first-time visitors or seasoned safari-goers looking for a well-organized adventure.

Day 1: From Nairobi to Amboseli National Park

Your journey kicks off with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or residence. You’ll then head south toward Amboseli, famous for its elephants and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, most groups have lunch at the camp, which is a good chance to settle in and enjoy the surroundings.

In the afternoon, a game drive offers your first glimpse of Kenya’s wildlife, with the chance to see elephants crossing the plains or perhaps lions lounging under Acacia trees. If you’re interested, visiting a Maasai village can add a cultural dimension—learning about their traditions and lifestyle.

Review insight: Many travelers appreciate the first game drive’s peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see elephants up close. One said, “Our guide’s deep knowledge made the animals come alive with stories and facts.”

Day 2: Full Day in Amboseli

Starting early is key here. The morning game drive offers the best chance to see wildlife in the cool of the day, with Mount Kilimanjaro often visible in the soft dawn light. The plains are famously populated with herds of elephants, and spotting them crossing the landscape is a hallmark experience.

Afternoon activities are flexible—some guests opt for more game drives, while others relax at the lodge or take a dip in the pool. Dinner is served back at the camp, with the chance to swap stories under the stars.

Review insight: Guests often mention how the guides’ expertise enhances their sightings. One shared, “Our guide knew exactly where to look for the big cats, making every drive exciting.”

Day 3: Amboseli to Tsavo West

An early start sees you leaving Amboseli after breakfast, heading towards Tsavo West National Park. The drive itself is part of the adventure, with opportunities to view wildlife along the way.

Once in Tsavo West, the afternoon includes a visit to the rhino sanctuary, a critical effort in Kenya’s conservation landscape. Staying at Ngulia Lodge or Sarova Saltlick Lodge, you’ll enjoy scenic views and a chance to unwind after a day of travel.

Review insight: Travelers love the diversity of landscapes—“The transition from Amboseli’s open plains to Tsavo’s lush greenery was remarkable,” remarked one guest.

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Day 4: Exploring Tsavo West

Today is dedicated to exploring Tsavo West’s varied habitats. Expect to see lions, buffaloes, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. The two game drives give ample opportunity to witness these creatures in their natural environment.

A visit to Mzima Springs is a highlight—here, you can watch hippos and crocodiles lounging in the water, plus observe colorful birdlife. The landscape is lush, contrasting sharply with the more arid Amboseli.

Review insight: Many mention the guides’ ability to spot elusive animals. “We saw a cheetah lounging in the shade—something I never expected in Kenya,” one reviewer noted.

Day 5: Tsavo West to Taita Hills Sanctuary

After breakfast, the adventure continues as you move to the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. The game drive en route offers a chance to see animals like cape buffalo, African bush elephants, leopards, and lions. The sanctuary’s unique landscape includes historic salt licks and waterholes, drawing many species.

Staying at the Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and the opportunity to relax after your drives. The lodge’s location in a private reserve offers excellent wildlife viewing at your doorstep.

Review insight: Visitors enjoy the chance to see predators like lions and leopards close-up—a real highlight. One said, “The guides’ ability to track animals in this terrain was impressive.”

Day 6: Return to Nairobi

The final morning begins with an early game drive—your last chance to spot wildlife before heading back to Nairobi. The drive offers a scenic farewell, with chances to see animals in the early light.

Returning to Nairobi completes your safari, leaving you with memories of incredible wildlife encounters and cultural insights.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Budget For

This tour covers game drives, meals, and 5 nights’ accommodation in comfortable lodges, making it a convenient all-in-one package. The inclusion of bottled water and a professional guide ensures you stay refreshed and well-informed throughout your journey.

However, park entrance fees are not included, which could add to your final bill. You might find some parks are pricier than expected, so budgeting an extra amount for these fees is wise.

Transportation & Guide Expertise

The group size tends to be small, often with a dedicated guide who’s well-versed in animal behavior and local geography. This makes spotting wildlife more effective and the commentary more enriching. Many reviews highlight guides’ knowledgeable, friendly approach, which can elevate the experience from just sightseeing to understanding Kenya’s ecosystem.

Lodging & Meals

Staying in lodges like Ngulia and Sarova Taita Hills ensures comfort after long days out in the bush. Many visitors appreciate the scenic views from their rooms and the availability of meals on-site, which simplifies logistics and adds a touch of luxury.

What to Bring & What to Know

Travelers are advised to carry essentials like a camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for game drives. A valid passport is necessary, and keeping your credit card handy can cover optional extras like drinks or park fees.

Since the tour is not wheelchair accessible, those with mobility issues should consider this. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Safari?

If you love wildlife and are eager to see the Big 5 in a variety of landscapes, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided experience with comfortable accommodations and opportunities to learn about local culture through a Maasai village visit.

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the diversity of habitats—from the mountain views of Amboseli to the lush springs of Tsavo West. Photographers will find plenty of scenic vistas and wildlife moments to capture, especially with knowledgeable guides at your side.

This safari balances adventure with comfort, making it suitable for those new to safaris or seasoned travelers looking for a well-organized trip without the hassle of planning every detail.

The Sum Up

This 6-day safari offers a compelling blend of wildlife viewing, cultural experience, and relaxation in some of Kenya’s most renowned parks. From the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop to the varied ecosystems of Tsavo and Taita Hills, every day promises new sights and stories. The carefully chosen lodges, expert guides, and inclusive meals make it a smooth, enjoyable adventure.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive safari experience with plenty of opportunities to see Africa’s legendary animals up close. The focus on guided insights and comfortable accommodations ensures you’ll leave with not just photos, but rich memories and new knowledge.

While the cost is reasonable given the scope, remember to factor in park entrance fees and optional extras to avoid surprises. If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic safari with cultural highlights and expert guiding, this tour stands out as a thoughtfully curated option.

FAQ

Are park entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, park entrance fees are not included, so you will need to budget separately for those costs.

Is this tour suitable for children or family groups?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves game drives and some physical activity, it’s best suited for older children and adults.

How many people usually go on this tour?
The tour is described as a private experience, so only your group participates, making it more personalized.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak both English and French, accommodating a variety of travelers.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with a flexible “book now, pay later” option.

What should I pack for this safari?
Bring passport, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a credit card for extras.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not wheelchair accessible and may not suit those with mobility challenges.

How long are the game drives each day?
While specific durations aren’t provided, expect early morning and late afternoon drives, typically lasting a few hours each.

What’s the best time of year for this safari?
While the tour details don’t specify, safaris generally thrive during dry seasons when animals congregate around water sources.

This safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and comfort—perfect for those wanting to connect deeply with Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes without the stress of planning every detail.

You can check availability for your dates here: