3 Days Kenya safari to Tsavo East and Taita Hills Sanctuary from Mombasa & Diani
Explore the amazing Tsavo East National Park famous for 'red elephants and red elephants. You will also have the opportunity to stay at Salt Lick Safari Lodge - one of the most photographed safari lodges in the world. We will pick you from your Mombasa beach resort / airport and drop you at your Nairobi hotel or airport
Day 1: Mombasa to Tsavo East National Park
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your beach resort or hotel on the beautiful Kenya coast. Your friendly driver and guide will greet you and ensure your belongings are safely stowed as we embark on our journey.
We will set off along the scenic Mombasa-Nairobi Highway, surrounded by the stunning landscapes and vibrant flora of Kenya. The drive will take approximately 3.5 hours, bringing us to the iconic Bachuma Gate—your entry point to the magnificent Tsavo East National Park.
During the journey, we’ll take a brief stop at the park gate for refreshments, allowing you to stretch your legs and prepare for the excitement ahead. Please note that payment for refreshments is made directly at this stop.
Upon entering the park, the real adventure begins. Prepare for an exhilarating safari game-viewing drive, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot a diverse array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic elephants, regal lions, graceful zebras, towering giraffes, formidable buffalo, swift cheetahs, elegant antelopes, and the striking kudu, among many other fascinating animals.
As the day progresses and the sun rises higher in the sky, you’ll have the chance to unwind at your lodge or camp. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the serene atmosphere as you recharge for the afternoon game-viewing drive. As the heat of midday begins to fade, the park comes alive again, providing another fantastic opportunity to encounter the vibrant wildlife of Tsavo East National Park in action.
Overnight at your Tsavo East Hotel
Day 2: Tsavo East to Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
We’ll start our day bright and early, joining the wildlife as they venture onto the vast plains, eager to see what the day holds. The sight of animals awakening and beginning their daily routines is truly a magical experience.
After exploring the surroundings, we’ll retreat to our comfortable accommodation for a well-deserved safari breakfast. This meal will offer us the chance to refuel with delicious local dishes, preparing us for the adventures ahead.
Having already enjoyed much of the park, it’s time to broaden our horizons by visiting the neighboring Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. We’ll exit the park and make our way to this stunning reserve, where breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife await us.
Upon arrival at Taita Hills, we’ll check in to the Saltlick Safari Lodge, a unique lodge built on stilts, providing spectacular views of the waterholes below. After settling in, we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch featuring a variety of fresh, local ingredients.
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a thrilling game drive in Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. This experience will allow us to explore the diverse habitats and encounter an array of wildlife, from majestic elephants to graceful antelopes, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful hills. Every moment promises to be unforgettable as we immerse ourselves in the wonders of this natural paradise.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Overnight at Saltlick Safari Lodge
Day 3: Taita Hills to Mombasa
We will set off bright and early once again for an exciting adventure!
Start your day with an early morning game drive, where you can experience the thrill of spotting wildlife as the sun rises over the horizon. After an exhilarating morning, we’ll return to the lodge for a delicious breakfast that will fuel our day ahead.
Following breakfast, we’ll embark on an extra game viewing drive at the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. This intimate park offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife closely, making it easier to spot animals that might be elusive in larger reserves. It’s a fantastic chance for photography and creating lasting memories.
During our journey, we will stop for lunch at a scenic location, allowing everyone to refresh and enjoy the surroundings.
Once we’ve enjoyed our meal, we will continue our journey to the beautiful coastal city of Mombasa.
Finally, we’ll drop you off at your Mombasa Hotel, where you can relax and unwind after a day filled with adventure and exploration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
COST INCLUSIONS:
- Full board accommodation as per the itinerary and program
- All road transport using a 4X4 Land Cruiser
- Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
- All airport/hotel transfers as indicated.
- Driver’s allowances and other vehicle expenses
- Services of an English-speaking driver guide
- Game drives
- Drinking water during safaris
- Park entrance fees
- Emergency medical evacuation cover
- Meals as stipulated in the itinerary
COST EXCLUSIONS:
- Visas
- Personal items
- Beers, sodas, wines &spirits
- Balloon safari
- Visit to Masai village
- Tips and gratitude
- International/local flights
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Trip Request:
Frequently Asked Questions About the 3 Days Tsavo East and Taita Hills Sanctuary Safari from Mombasa & Diani
1. What is the 3 Days Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari?
The 3 Days Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari is a short Kenya wildlife tour designed for travellers staying in Mombasa or Diani Beach. It combines the expansive wilderness of Tsavo East with the scenic wildlife environment of Taita Hills Sanctuary.
2. Where does the 3-day safari start?
The safari is designed to start from Mombasa or Diani Beach, making it an excellent option for travellers enjoying a coastal holiday before heading into Kenya’s wildlife country.
3. Can I start the safari from Diani Beach?
Yes. Travellers staying in Diani Beach can arrange to begin their safari from Diani, subject to the final itinerary and travel arrangements with Elara Luxury Safaris.
4. Which destinations are visited on this safari?
The safari focuses on Tsavo East National Park and Taita Hills Sanctuary, two destinations that offer different landscapes, habitats and wildlife experiences.
5. Why combine Tsavo East and Taita Hills Sanctuary?
Combining the two destinations provides a varied safari experience within a relatively short timeframe. Tsavo East offers vast wilderness and classic game viewing, while Taita Hills provides a more intimate wildlife experience in a scenic setting.
6. Is three days enough for a Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari?
Yes. Three days offer a practical introduction to both destinations, making this safari particularly suitable for travellers who have limited time but still want to experience a Kenya wildlife safari from the coast.
7. What animals can I see on the Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari?
Depending on the season and location, you may encounter elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, wildebeest, warthogs and many bird species.
8. Can I see the Big Five on this safari?
Tsavo East and Taita Hills provide opportunities to encounter several Big Five species. Possible sightings include elephants, lions and buffaloes, while leopard and other wildlife may also be encountered. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
9. What is Tsavo East National Park famous for?
Tsavo East is renowned for its vast wilderness, dramatic landscapes, red-earth scenery, elephants and diverse wildlife. It is one of Kenya’s most famous safari destinations.
10. What is Taita Hills Sanctuary famous for?
Taita Hills Sanctuary is known for its scenic hills, diverse habitats and wildlife viewing opportunities. Its setting provides a different atmosphere from the expansive plains of Tsavo East.
11. Can I see elephants in Tsavo East?
Yes. Tsavo East is particularly well known for its elephants, and encountering these impressive animals can be one of the highlights of the safari.
12. Is Taita Hills good for wildlife viewing?
Yes. Taita Hills offers opportunities to see a variety of wildlife in a more intimate sanctuary environment, making it a valuable addition to a Tsavo East safari.
13. What is the best time for a Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari?
Both destinations can be visited at different times of the year. The ideal period depends on factors such as weather, wildlife viewing conditions, photography interests and your preferred travel experience.
14. Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Kenya?
Yes. The safari provides an excellent introduction to Kenya’s wildlife, particularly for travellers who are staying on the coast and want to experience a short safari without travelling for many days.
15. Is the safari suitable for families with children?
Yes. Families can enjoy the wildlife, scenery and game drives. Elara Luxury Safaris can discuss suitable arrangements based on the children’s ages and your family’s travel preferences.
16. Is this safari suitable for couples?
Yes. Couples can enjoy this safari as a private wildlife getaway from the Kenyan coast and combine it with additional time on the beaches of Mombasa or Diani.
17. Can honeymooners take the Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari?
Yes. The safari can form part of a Kenya safari and beach honeymoon, allowing couples to combine wildlife adventures with relaxation on the Kenyan coast.
18. Can I book this as a private Kenya safari?
Yes. Private safari arrangements can be discussed with Elara Luxury Safaris, allowing greater flexibility over the itinerary, game drives and pace of travel.
19. Can Elara Luxury Safaris customise the 3-day safari?
Yes. Elara Luxury Safaris can discuss tailoring the safari around your preferred travel dates, starting point, accommodation preferences, interests and onward travel plans.
20. What type of accommodation is used on the safari?
Accommodation depends on the selected safari package and availability. Elara Luxury Safaris can advise on suitable lodge or tented-camp options according to your preferred comfort level and budget.
21. Are game drives included in the safari?
Game drives are a central part of the Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari experience. The exact schedule depends on the final itinerary and arrangements for your trip.
22. Are park and sanctuary fees included?
This depends on the specific safari package and quotation. Travellers should confirm the current inclusions and exclusions with Elara Luxury Safaris before booking.
23. Are meals included during the 3-day safari?
Meal arrangements depend on the selected accommodation and safari package. Elara Luxury Safaris can confirm the meals included in your specific quotation.
24. What should I pack for a Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari?
Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal toiletries, a camera and any essential medication. A light jacket can also be useful for cooler mornings and evenings.
25. What should I wear on a Kenya safari?
Comfortable, lightweight clothing is recommended. Neutral or natural colours are practical for game drives, while comfortable closed shoes, sun protection and a warmer layer can be useful.
26. Is this safari good for wildlife photography?
Yes. Tsavo East and Taita Hills offer excellent opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography. A camera with a suitable zoom lens, spare batteries and sufficient storage are useful.
27. Should I bring binoculars on the safari?
Yes. Binoculars are highly recommended for observing distant animals, birds and other details during game drives.
28. Is this safari suitable for bird watching?
Yes. Both Tsavo East and Taita Hills support diverse birdlife. Bird sightings vary according to the season, habitat and areas visited.
29. Can solo travellers book this safari?
Yes. Solo travellers can enquire about available arrangements with Elara Luxury Safaris. Private or shared options may depend on travel dates and the selected safari package.
30. Can I combine this safari with a Mombasa beach holiday?
Yes. The safari is particularly well suited to a Mombasa safari and beach holiday, allowing you to combine wildlife viewing with time at the Kenyan coast.
31. Can I combine the safari with a Diani Beach holiday?
Yes. You can spend time relaxing in Diani before or after your safari, creating a classic Diani Beach safari and beach holiday.
32. Is this a good safari from Mombasa beach resorts?
Yes. Its relatively short duration makes it convenient for travellers staying at Mombasa’s beach resorts who want to add a wildlife experience to their coastal holiday.
33. Is this safari suitable for travellers staying in Diani?
Yes. Diani Beach is a popular base for travellers looking to combine a beach holiday with a short Kenya safari. Elara Luxury Safaris can arrange the safari from Diani according to the agreed itinerary.
34. How far in advance should I book this Kenya safari?
Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during popular travel periods. Early planning provides greater flexibility when choosing travel dates and accommodation.
35. Can I extend the 3-day Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari?
Yes. Travellers with additional time can ask Elara Luxury Safaris about extending the safari or adding other Kenyan destinations to their itinerary.
36. Can I add a beach holiday after the safari?
Yes. You can extend your Kenya holiday with additional nights in Mombasa, Diani Beach or another coastal destination.
37. Why choose Tsavo East and Taita Hills for a short Kenya safari?
The combination offers a rewarding wildlife experience without requiring a long safari. You get the expansive wilderness of Tsavo East together with the distinctive landscapes and wildlife environment of Taita Hills.
38. Why book the Tsavo East and Taita Hills safari with Elara Luxury Safaris?
Elara Luxury Safaris specialises in Kenya wildlife and beach experiences and can help organise a tailor-made safari from Mombasa or Diani. The itinerary can be adapted around your travel dates, interests and preferred safari style.
39. How do I book the 3 Days Tsavo East and Taita Hills Sanctuary safari?
Contact Elara Luxury Safaris with your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, starting location and accommodation preferences. The team can help you plan the safari and provide the relevant quotation and booking information.
