From Volcanic Springs to the Red Elephant Kingdom
Overview
This refined safari combines the rugged beauty of Tsavo West National Park with the expansive wilderness of Tsavo East National Park – together forming one of Kenya’s largest and most iconic wildlife ecosystems.
Tsavo West enchants with lava flows, natural springs and dramatic scenery, while Tsavo East captivates with sweeping savannahs and large elephant herds coated in distinctive red dust. The contrast between terrain, wildlife habitats and photographic opportunities makes this journey exceptionally rewarding.
Every detail – from your Nairobi pickup to your coastal drop-off – is handled with precision and executive-level care.
Crystal-clear Mzima Springs with hippos and crocodiles
- Lava landscapes and dramatic escarpments
- The famous red elephants of Tsavo East
- Vast open plains ideal for wildlife photography
- Big cats, giraffes, buffalo and diverse antelope species
Itinerary
This three-day executive safari journeys from Nairobi into the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West before continuing to the vast open plains of Tsavo East, renowned for its red elephants. The experience concludes with a seamless transfer to your selected beach hotel along Kenya’s coastline.
Distance: Approx. 240 km
Drive Time: 4 – 5 hours
07:00 a.m. | Personalised Pickup in Nairobi
Your safari begins with a professional meet-and-greet at your hotel, residence or the airport. After a comprehensive briefing, depart via the Nairobi–Mombasa highway.
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Arrival & Game Drive En Route to Lodge
Upon entering Tsavo West, the terrain transforms into rolling hills, volcanic cones and ancient lava flows. Wildlife is well adapted to this rugged environment. Elephants, buffalo and antelope species move between thickets and open clearings, while lions often patrol the rocky outcrops.
A visit to the famed Mzima Springs reveals crystal-clear pools fed by underground streams from Mount Kilimanjaro. Here, hippos and crocodiles are frequently observed in serene surroundings.
01:00 p.m. | Arrival & Lunch
Check in at your selected lodge or luxury camp and enjoy lunch.
03:30 p.m. – 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive
Explore scenic viewpoints, acacia woodland and riverine habitats before returning to the lodge.
07:30 p.m. | Dinner & Overnight
Dinner and overnight at your selected accommodation as per the options 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
Distance: Approx. 120 km
Drive Time: 3 – 4 hours (including game drive transit)
06:30 a.m. – 08:00 a.m. | Morning Game Drive & Breakfast
Enjoy an early game drive in Tsavo West before returning for breakfast.
08:30 a.m. | Depart for Tsavo East (Game Drive En Route)
Proceed toward Tsavo East, crossing through scenic wilderness corridors.
12:30 p.m. | Arrival & Lunch
Arrive at your lodge or tented camp within Tsavo East.
Tsavo East is renowned for its vast open plains, the dramatic Yatta Plateau and the iconic red elephants that dust themselves in the region’s iron-rich soil. The park supports large herds of buffalo, graceful giraffes, zebras and numerous antelope species. Lions and cheetahs roam the open savannah, making this terrain ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.
03:30 p.m. – 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive
Explore watering points and seasonal riverbeds where wildlife gathers in the late afternoon.
07:30 p.m. | Dinner & Overnight
Enjoy a refined dinner in tranquil surroundings before retiring for the evening at your preferred accommodation as per the option below.
Option 1: Budget | Lion Hill Lodge | Boma Simba Lodge | Impala Safari Lodge | Tausa Tsavo Eco Lodge | Two Oceans Hotel | Afrika Lodges Voi | Tsavo Lodge-Voi | Vacani Resort
Option 2: Standard | Voi Safari Lodge | Sentrim Tsavo Lodge | Man Eaters Camp
Option 3: Luxury | Ngutuni Lodge | Voi Wildlife Lodge | Ashnil Aruba Lodge | Manyatta Camp Tsavo
Option 4 : Above Luxury | Satao Camp | Galdessa Camp Tsavo | Kiboko River Camp
Optional Activities (At Extra Cost)
-Extended sunset game drive
-Private bush dinner
Distance: Approx. 120 – 250 km
Drive Time: 3 – 5 hours
06:30 a.m. – 08:00 a.m. | Sunrise Game Drive & Breakfast
Enjoy a final morning safari in Tsavo East before breakfast.
09:30 a.m. | Departure to the Coast
Begin your transfer to your selected beach destination:
01:30 p.m. – 03:30 p.m. | Arrival at Your Beach Hotel
Arrive comfortably at your coastal hotel, concluding your safari experience.
Optional (At Extra Cost)
-Extended morning game drive (subject to schedule)
Inclusions / Exclusions
Package includes
- Transport in a 4x4 Land Cruiser safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Park entrance fees for Tsavo West and Tsavo East
- 2 nights accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- Bottled mineral water during game drives
- Government taxes and levies
Excludes
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Optional activities listed above
- Tips and gratuities (optional but appreciated)
- Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Tsavo West features rugged volcanic landscapes, springs and denser vegetation, while Tsavo East is characterized by vast open plains, large elephant herds and excellent photographic visibility.
Yes. Drop-off is available in Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Watamu and Malindi.
Both parks have abundant wildlife; however, sightings vary as animals move freely in their natural habitat.
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral tones, a light jacket for early mornings, comfortable closed shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. Bring personal toiletries, medication if required, a camera, binoculars and a small day bag. Soft-sided luggage is recommended for ease of transport.
Yes. The itinerary can be tailored to suit families, couples and executive clients.
