Is Tsavo East suitable for first-time safari travellers?

Yes. Tsavo East’s open landscapes make wildlife easier to spot, making it an excellent choice for first-time safari guests.

What makes Tsavo East ideal for a day trip?

Its size, road access, and concentration of wildlife near main routes allow for meaningful game drives even on a single-day itinerary.

Does the safari include river or waterhole viewing?

Yes. Game drives often pass seasonal rivers and water points where animals gather, especially during dry periods.

Is the safari affected by weather conditions?

Safaris operate year-round. Wildlife viewing varies by season, but Tsavo East offers rewarding sightings in both dry and green seasons.

Tsavo East National Park Safari from Mombasa (1 Day)

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Set out on a thrilling one-day safari to Tsavo East National Park from Mombasa and explore one of Kenya’s largest and most iconic wilderness areas. Famous for its vast open plains, red-dust elephants, and the striking Yatta Plateau, Tsavo East delivers classic African safari scenery and excellent wildlife viewing. With early departure, expertly guided game drives, and well-planned timing, this full-day adventure offers an immersive safari experience without the need for overnight stays—perfect for coastal travelers seeking big game and big landscapes in a single day.

Classic Safari Landscapes from the Coast

Vast open plains and classic African savannah scenery
Herds of dust-red elephant wallowing, rolling or simply foraging
Sightings of giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and antelope
Possibility of spotting lions and cheetahs
The beautiful man made Aruba dam located on the north bank of the seasonal Voi River, is visited by thousands of animals and is a great game viewing destination.
Mudanda Rock - this whale-backed rock towers above a natural dam, which acts as a draw to thousands of elephants
Excellent photography opportunities in open terrain

Trip Info :

Itinerary

05:30 a.m. – 08:30 a.m. | Departure from Mombasa

Distance: 250 km
Drive Time: 4 – 4.5 hours

Begin with an early morning pickup from your hotel or residence in Mombasa. Travel inland through changing scenery as coastal landscapes transition into open countryside, rural towns, and expansive savannah. As you approach Tsavo East, the terrain opens up dramatically, setting the stage for a classic safari experience.

09:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Morning Game Drive in Tsavo East

Enter Tsavo East National Park and begin your game drive in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle. Explore vast plains, seasonal riverbeds, and acacia-dotted landscapes where wildlife is often easy to spot. Expect sightings of elephants coated in red earth, large herds of zebras and buffaloes, giraffes browsing treetops, and antelope scattered across the plains. Lions and cheetahs are present and may be encountered, adding excitement to the drive. The open terrain allows for excellent visibility and photography.

12:30 p.m. – 01:30 p.m. | Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch at a lodge or designated picnic site within or near the park. Take time to relax, refresh, and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness before continuing the safari.

01:30 p.m. – 03:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive

Continue exploring different sections of Tsavo East during the afternoon game drive. Visit key wildlife areas and water points where animals gather, and enjoy the softer afternoon light that enhances photography. Your guide will adjust the route based on wildlife movement for the best possible sightings.

03:30 p.m. – 08:00 p.m. | Return to Mombasa

Distance: 250 km
Drive Time: 4 – 4.5 hours

Depart the park in the late afternoon and drive back to Mombasa, arriving in the evening with lasting memories of a rewarding safari day.