Can first-time travellers manage this safari?

Yes – the itinerary is suitable for first-time safari-goers, with comfortable lodges and moderate driving times.

Is wildlife guaranteed in both parks?

While sightings are excellent, they depend on natural animal movements.

What makes Tsavo West different from Tsavo East?

Tsavo West features volcanic terrain, hills, and permanent water sources, while Tsavo East is known for open savannahs and red-dust elephants.

Are the game drives suitable for photography?

Yes – both parks offer wide-open vistas and excellent lighting for wildlife photography.

2 Days Tsavo East & Tsavo West (from Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Malindi,Watamu)

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Embark on a thrilling two-day safari from the Kenyan coast to explore the iconic wilderness of Tsavo East National Park and the dramatic landscapes of Tsavo West National Park. From the vast open plains and red-dust elephants of Tsavo East to the volcanic hills, Mzima Springs, and Shetani Lava Flow of Tsavo West, this itinerary offers diverse scenery, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable safari experiences.

Ideal for travellers seeking to experience both parks in a short time, the trip combines expertly guided game drives with scenic landscapes and comfortable lodge stays.

Trip Highlights

Explore vast open savannahs and wildlife-rich plains in Tsavo East National Park
Dramatic volcanic landscapes, hills, and woodland of Tsavo West National Park
Visits to Mzima Springs and the Shetani Lava Flow in Tsavo West
Excellent wildlife sightings including elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and antelope
Opportunity to see red-dust elephants wallowing in Tsavo East
Perfect for photography and immersive safari experiences

Day 01 :

Tsavo East Safari

05:00 a.m. – 09:30 a.m. | Departure from the Coast
Distance: 250 – 300 km
Drive Time: 4.5 – 5.5 hours

Pick up from your hotel or residence in Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Malindi, or Watamu and drive inland. The scenery changes from coastal landscapes to open plains and seasonal riverbeds as you approach Tsavo East National Park.

09:30 a.m. – 01:00 p.m. | Morning Game Drive in Tsavo East

Enter Tsavo East and explore its iconic landscapes in a 4×4 safari vehicle. See herds of elephants coated in red dust, zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species. Lions and cheetahs may also be encountered, while Mudanda Rock and Aruba Dam provide excellent photographic backdrops.

01:00 p.m. – 02:00 p.m. | Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch at a lodge or designated picnic site within or near the park, taking in sweeping views of the savannah.

02:00 p.m. – 05:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive

Continue exploring Tsavo East’s diverse plains, seasonal rivers, and waterholes. Your guide will adjust the route based on wildlife movement to maximize sightings.

05:30 p.m. | Dinner and Overnight

Head to Tsavo West to check in to your lodge or tented camp, enjoy dinner, and unwind as the sounds of the African wilderness create a memorable evening. the accommodation options are as below:

Option 1: Budget Tsavo Inn Lodge

Option 2: Standard Ngulia Safari Lodge

Option 3: Luxury Voyager Ziwani Camp | Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge | Severin Safari Camp

Option 4: Above Luxury Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp

Day 02 :

Tsavo West Exploration

After breakfast, depart for Tsavo West National Park and begin a morning game drive through rolling hills, woodland, and volcanic terrain. Look for lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes.

09:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Visit Mzima Springs

Observe hippos and crocodiles in the crystal-clear waters of Mzima Springs, fed by underground streams from Mount Kilimanjaro. The lush spring environment contrasts dramatically with the surrounding semi-arid landscape.

11:30 a.m. – 01:00 p.m. | Shetani Lava Flow & Game Drive

Drive through the rugged volcanic terrain of the Shetani Lava Flow while searching for additional wildlife. This geological feature provides striking scenery and excellent photographic opportunities.

01:00 p.m. – 02:00 p.m. | Lunch at Lodge or Picnic Site

Enjoy lunch within or near Tsavo West before beginning your return journey.

02:00 p.m. – 08:00 p.m. | Return to the Coast
Distance: 250 – 320 km
Drive Time: 4.5 – 5.5 hours

Depart Tsavo West in the afternoon and return to Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Malindi, or Watamu, arriving in the evening with memorable wildlife encounters and scenic safari experiences.