Overnight To Tsavo East from Mombasa/Diani

Planning a safari that balances adventure, comfort, and value? The Overnight to Tsavo East offered by Radar Tours and Travel might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler insights paint a compelling picture of a well-organized, authentic safari experience.

What appeals most? The chance to explore Kenya’s largest and oldest game park, the chance to see iconic wildlife, and the convenience of a comfortable lodge stay. Plus, the itinerary covers the park’s fascinating diversity, from waterholes to savannah vistas.

One thing to consider is the cost—$400 per person—but when you weight that against the included lodge stay, meals, and dedicated game drives, it offers respectable value. This tour suits travelers who want a quick yet immersive wildlife experience, especially those short on time but eager to see Kenya’s famed safari landscapes and animals.

Key Points

• Largest and oldest game park in Kenya offers a wide range of wildlife and scenic diversity.
• The itinerary includes guided game drives, waterhole visits, and a comfortable lodge stay.
• All meals and transport are included, making it a convenient package.
• The tour is private, with pickup from Mombasa or Diani, enhancing flexibility and comfort.
• You’ll experience the park’s varied elevations, from 1200ft to 3000ft above sea level.
• The tour includes a mix of morning and evening game drives, maximizing wildlife sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Mombasa/Diani to Tsavo East

Starting early at around 6:00 am with pickup from your hotel or residence, the safari kicks off with a scenic drive along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway. The journey itself is about 3 hours, giving you a chance to settle in and prepare for your first wildlife encounters.

Arriving at the Bachuma Gate around 9:00 am, the real adventure begins. This gate is a popular entry point, situated near the park’s water sources, which are hotspots for wildlife activity. From here, your guide starts the game viewing, with the first stop being Aruba Dam—a waterhole built in 1952 by the British Army during colonial times.

What makes Aruba Dam special? It’s a classic waterhole scene—animals coming to drink, lions potentially lying nearby, and birds fluttering around. We loved the way Aruba Dam offers a chance for close-up viewing that’s accessible enough for a relaxed yet exciting game viewing experience.

Exploring Tsavo East’s Unique Geography

What sets Tsavo East apart? Its diverse terrain and varying elevations. Ranging from 1200ft to 3000ft above sea level, the park offers a mix of open plains, rocky outcrops, and lush waterholes. It’s this geographic variety that sustains a wide array of wildlife, from elephants and lions to lesser-known species like the gerenuk.

The park is divided into east and west sections by the old railway line, which adds historical intrigue—especially if you’re a train enthusiast or interested in Kenya’s colonial past.

Day 1: Game Drive and Lodge Stay

After the initial park exploration, you’re scheduled to check into the Voi Safari Lodge for lunch. This lodge offers a comfortable base, with views over the park, allowing for relaxation after your morning game drive.

In the afternoon, you’ll have some downtime before heading out again at 4:00 pm for an evening game drive. These drives are prime time for wildlife sightings, as animals are most active during cooler hours. Expect to see herds of elephants, possibly some predators, and a variety of birdlife.

Reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making the game viewing both educational and enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned that the waterhole visits are particularly rewarding, noting, “We saw elephants, giraffes, and even a lion resting near the water.”

Dinner is served at the lodge, and after a full day, you’re likely to fall asleep to the sounds of the wilderness.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Return

The next morning starts early, with breakfast served before checkout. Then, a final game drive en route to the park’s exit, offering one last chance to spot wildlife. These early morning drives often reveal animals that are less active during the day, adding to the safari’s excitement.

After exiting through the gate, the tour concludes with the drive back to Diani or Mombasa in the afternoon. Most travelers find that these first-hand encounters with wildlife and the landscape make the trip highly worth it, especially given the included meals and comfortable lodge stay.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers transport in a customized safari van equipped with a pop-up roof—perfect for game viewing. The accommodation at Voi Safari Lodge is part of the deal, along with all meals listed in the itinerary and bottled water. Pickup and drop-off are flexible within Mombasa and Diani, making it convenient for most travelers.

However, travelers should budget for entry fees to Tsavo East, which are paid online via the government’s E-citizen platform, and any additional drinks or beverages not included.

Practical Tips and Insider Insights

• The timing is crucial. Leaving at 6:00 am ensures you get the most out of daylight for game drives and waterhole sightings.
• The game drives are private, meaning you’re likely to have a more personalized experience with your guide, often cited as knowledgeable and friendly.
• The lodge offers a relaxing break from daily hustle—expect comfortable rooms, and if you’re lucky, views of wildlife right from the lodge.
• Travelers mention that bottled water is provided, but you might want to carry a hat, sunscreen, and binoculars for better wildlife viewing.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Perspectives

Multiple reviews mention that guides are well-informed about animal behavior and park history, enhancing the safari’s educational value. One reviewer noted that Aruba Dam was a real highlight, with “a lot of wildlife gathering around, making it a perfect spot for photos.” Others appreciated the early morning drive for the chance to see animals in their most active state.

A recurring theme is the value for money—considering the inclusion of transport, meals, and lodge accommodation, many travelers feel it’s a worthwhile experience for a short Kenyan safari. Some have noted that the lodge’s proximity to the park allows for restful nights and easy access to wildlife viewing spots.

This Overnight to Tsavo East safari offers a great way for travelers to experience Kenya’s iconic wilderness without the need for a lengthy trip. It’s ideal for those with limited time but eager to see wildlife in a natural setting, with the added comfort of lodge stays and guided game drives.

Perfect for first-time safari-goers, families, or anyone wanting a taste of Kenya’s wildlife, the tour balances adventure and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate cultural and historical contexts, thanks to Tsavo’s unique location and the old railway line.

The value-packed package, with flexible booking and the chance to witness Kenya’s big five and other animals up close, makes it a compelling choice. Just be prepared for early mornings and a bit of drive time, but rest assured, every minute spent in Tsavo East is packed with potential wildlife sightings and scenic moments.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Most pickups are scheduled around 6:00 am, giving you a head start for the day’s game drives and wildlife viewing.

What should I bring on the safari?
Bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and camera. The tour provides bottled water, but packing extra is always a good idea.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals listed in the itinerary—lunch, dinner, and breakfast—are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy without extra planning.

How do I pay for entry fees?
Entry fees are paid by card through the government’s E-citizen website, so you don’t need to worry about carrying cash for park entrance.

Can I customize the tour?
This experience is private, so there’s some flexibility in pickup locations and possibly timing—check with the provider for specific customization options.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families looking for a manageable safari experience with guided game drives and comfortable accommodation will find this trip well-suited.

In all, this safari offers a well-rounded glimpse into Kenya’s wilderness, combining wildlife, history, and comfort in a package that’s both practical and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: