3 days safari Tsavo East and Taita hills (Saltlick lodge)

This experience made our article of Discover 16 Great Tours & Things To Do In Mombasa.

Exploring a 3-Day Safari in Tsavo East and Taita Hills – An Honest Look

Planning a safari is an exciting endeavor, but choosing the right one can be tricky. This 3-day private adventure through Kenya’s Tsavo East and Taita Hills, with a stay at Saltlick Lodge, offers a compelling option for wildlife lovers and those craving an authentic African safari experience. We haven’t personally done this trip, but based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it seems to offer excellent value, balanced with practical comfort.

What caught our attention? First, the early start—a 5 am departure—means you’ll get a head start on wildlife viewing, which is ideal for spotting animals when they’re most active. Second, the quality of the lodges, especially Saltlick, which promises a scenic, immersive experience in the wildlife sanctuary. A potential consideration? The long days and early mornings might not suit travelers looking for a more relaxed pace. But if you’re eager to maximize game sightings, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers, families, or small groups who are ready to spend full days in vehicles, with a keen interest in seeing a wide variety of animals. It’s designed for those who want a private, personalized safari without the crowds. Budget-wise, at $900 per person, it offers a solid balance between cost and quality, especially considering all meals, game drives, and park admission fees are included.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters: Expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more, often with young animals.
• Comfortable lodges: Saltlick Lodge provides a memorable base for game drives and relaxation.
• Dedicated safari experience: Private tours mean fewer crowds and tailored attention.
• Full-day game drives: Early mornings and late afternoons maximize animal sightings.
• Inclusive meals and park fees: Simplifies planning and budgeting.
• Efficient itinerary: Combines Tsavo East and Taita Hills for diverse landscapes and species.

A Practical Breakdown of the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Diani Beach to Tsavo East

The adventure kicks off with an early departure from your coastal hotel at 5 am. We like the fact that this early start prioritizes prime wildlife viewing hours—animals tend to be most active during the cooler morning hours. The three-hour drive is straightforward, and once at Tsavo East, the game drives begin in earnest, lasting until lunchtime. The inclusion of transportation, park admission, and game drives makes this a convenient package.

You’ll check in around noon at either Voi Safari Lodge or Voi Wildlife Lodge—both are well-situated for game viewing and offer a comfortable retreat after a morning of spotting wildlife. Lunch is included, and the afternoon game drive continues until around 6:20 pm. Expect to see a variety of animals, from elephants bathing in waterholes to perhaps lions resting under acacia trees. The reviews highlight the success of sightings, with visitors describing seeing lions, buffalos, elephants, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and antelopes—some with young ones.

Day 2: Tsavo East to Taita Hills

After an early breakfast, you’ll head out for another game drive before 10 am, focusing on spotting any animals missed previously. The drive then takes about two hours to reach Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, a different landscape with its own array of species and scenery. The highlight here is the Saltlick Lodge, which is famed for its spectacular views over the wildlife sanctuary.

Checking in for lunch, you’ll settle in for an afternoon game drive from 4 pm to 6:20 pm. Taita Hills is known for its distinctive terrain and diverse fauna, and visitors often report seeing a variety of animals during these late drives. The lodge’s location offers an immersive experience—being right in the middle of wildlife activity—making this a highlight for many.

Day 3: Taita Hills and Return to Mombasa

The final morning begins with an early breakfast and another game drive, giving one last chance to spot animals before checkout. The drive back towards Mombasa includes a stopping point for lunch, allowing travelers to reflect on their safari adventures. The duration of the drive and the included lunch make for a smooth end to the trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s cost includes meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), park admission tickets, and all scheduled game drives, which simplifies budgeting and planning. The private nature of this tour means it’s just your group, providing a more personalized experience. Transportation is arranged from Mombasa, with convenient pickup options.

Not included are personal items like cigarettes, beers, tips, or souvenirs. While not specified, travelers should consider bringing appropriate clothing for early mornings and late afternoons, as well as binoculars and cameras to capture wildlife moments.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The overall rating is an impressive 4.8 out of 5, based on 45 reviews, with 96% recommending the tour. One reviewer, Silke, described it as an “unforgettable experience,” mentioning sightings of lions, buffalo, elephants, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and young animals—a testament to the success of the game drives. She called it a “super” experience, emphasizing how close and diverse the animals appeared.

Many reviews highlight the quality of sightings and the professionalism of the guides. The early start and full-day drives are appreciated for maximizing wildlife encounters. The lodges, especially Saltlick, are praised for their scenic views and comfortable accommodations, making the long days more enjoyable.

The Value of This Safari

Considering the price of $900 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package: multiple game drives, park fees, meals, and comfortable lodges. While it’s a modest price compared to multi-day luxury safaris, it delivers a genuine wilderness experience. The private nature ensures personalized attention, and the itinerary’s structure maximizes wildlife sightings, which is key for any safari.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits travelers who are keen to see a wide variety of animals and are comfortable with early mornings and full days in safari vehicles. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or couples looking for an authentic and immersive experience without the high costs of luxury lodges. The tour is also suitable for those who appreciate well-organized logistics, as all major elements are included, reducing the hassle of planning.

It’s a good fit for those wanting a balanced pace—not too rushed, but still packed with wildlife spotting opportunities. If you’re seeking a private, guided safari that combines comfort with adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

What is the starting time for this safari?
The tour begins at 5:30 am with pickup from your Mombasa hotel, allowing you to start early for optimal game viewing.

What animals will I likely see?
Expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, buffalo, cheetahs, and possibly young animals, based on reviews and the typical wildlife in Tsavo and Taita Hills.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes three breakfasts, three dinners, and three lunches, making it convenient to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at Saltlick Lodge during Day 2, which offers scenic views over the wildlife sanctuary. Day 1 lodging is at Voi safari or wildlife lodges, both providing comfortable facilities.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation from Mombasa is included, with pickup offered from your hotel, making logistics straightforward.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is typically booked about 41 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, offering flexibility and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day safari through Tsavo East and Taita Hills stands out as a well-organized, wildlife-focused adventure that offers excellent value for those eager to see Kenya’s iconic animals. The combination of early mornings, full-day game drives, and comfortable lodges ensures you get the most out of your trip without feeling overwhelmed. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a personalized experience with a balance of adventure and comfort.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, this tour provides a genuine window into Africa’s wilderness, all within a manageable timeframe and budget. The strong reviews and detailed itinerary suggest that many visitors leave with lasting memories of lions, elephants, and the breathtaking landscapes of Tsavo and Taita Hills. If you’re ready to chase those unforgettable wildlife moments, this safari could be just the ticket.

References

https://www.viator.com/tours/Mombasa/3-days-safari-Tsavo-east-and-Taita-hills-Saltlick-lodge/d22167-200151P6