Is this safari suitable for first-time travellers?

Yes – the short travel distances and lodge-based wildlife viewing make it ideal for beginners.

What makes Salt Lick Lodge special?

The lodge is built on stilts above a floodlit waterhole, allowing guests to observe wildlife directly from their rooms or terrace.

Will I see elephants?

Yes – both Tsavo East and the Salt Lick waterhole attract elephants daily, along with other plains game and predators.

Is this safari family-friendly?

Yes – minimal long drives, safe lodges, and abundant wildlife make it suitable for families and young travellers alike.

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

Tsavo’s Wild Plains Meet Salt Lick’s Waterhole Wonders

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Combine the vast open plains and red-dust elephants of Tsavo East National Park with the exclusive conservancy experience at Salt Lick Safari Lodge on this two-day safari. Witness abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and enjoy an overnight stay at the lodge overlooking a floodlit waterhole where elephants, buffaloes, and other game gather at dusk.

Perfect for travellers seeking both classic national park scenery and intimate wildlife viewing in a short coastal safari.

Trip Highlights

Game drives in Tsavo East National Park with red-dust elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes
Scenic landscapes including open savannah, riverbeds, and seasonal waterholes
Excellent photography opportunities on game drives and at the lodge

Day 01 :

Tsavo East Game Drive

5:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Departure
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. Travel inland as coastal palms give way to open plains and seasonal riverbeds. Arrive at Tsavo East National Park in time for lunch at a designated picnic site or at a hotel.

12:30 p.m. – 01:30 p.m. | Lunch

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch overlooking the savannah before setting out on your first afternoon game drive.

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

Explore the open plains of Tsavo East in a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser, observing red-dust elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Visit key features such as Mudanda Rock and Aruba Dam, both popular gathering points for wildlife, while your guide maximizes viewing opportunities for photography and close encounters.

05:30 p.m. | Transfer to Salt Lick Lodge – Overnight Stay

Drive to Salt Lick Safari Lodge in Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary and check in to your stilted room overlooking the waterhole. Enjoy dinner at the lodge and unwind while wildlife congregates below, offering an unforgettable evening safari experience from the comfort of your room.

Day 02 :

Salt Lick Morning Game Drive

06:30 a.m. – 09:30 a.m. | Early Morning Game Drive

Rise early for a sunrise game drive around the lodge and nearby conservancy areas when wildlife is most active. Spot elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and other plains game in the soft morning light.

09:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Breakfast at Salt Lick Lodge

Return to the lodge for breakfast and enjoy a brief period of relaxation while observing the waterhole.

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Mid-Morning Game Viewing

Continue wildlife exploration within Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, visiting key water points and rolling hills where animals often congregate. Your guide adjusts the route based on recent sightings to maximize encounters.

12:30 p.m. – 01:30 p.m. | Lunch and Checkout

Enjoy lunch at the lodge or designated picnic site before preparing for departure back to the coast.

01:30 p.m. – 07:00 p.m. | Return to the Coast
Distance: 250 – 300 km
Drive Time: 4.5 – 5.5 hours

Depart Salt Lick Lodge and travel back to Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Malindi, or Watamu, arriving in the evening with lasting memories of wildlife encounters and scenic safari landscapes.