3-days Tsavo East and Tsavo West
Embark on an unforgettable 3-day safari adventure, exploring two of Kenya's most iconic national parks - Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Witness the vast herds of "red elephants" roaming the dusty plains of Tsavo East, and encounter diverse wildlife amidst the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the contrasting beauty and abundant wildlife of these two remarkable parks.
Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo East National Park
Day 2: Tsavo East to Tsavo West National Park
Day 3: Tsavo West to Nairobi
Activities:
* Multiple game drives in both Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks
* Explore the unique landscapes and geological formations of each park
Optional activities: Visit the Mzima Springs, Shetani Lava Flow, Chaimu Crater, or enjoy a bush walk (additional cost)
Optional Travel Upgrade:
Travel Between Parks with Light Aircraft: For a seamless and time-efficient experience, consider upgrading your transportation between parks with a scenic light aircraft flight. This option offers breathtaking aerial views of the Kenyan landscape and significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to maximize your time on safari.
Wildlife & Scenic Highlights:
Tsavo East National Park: Elephants (including the famous "red elephants"), lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, antelopes, and a diverse array of bird species, such as ostriches, eagles, and vultures.
Tsavo West National Park: Lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, black rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Scenic Landscapes: The Yatta Plateau (the world's longest lava flow) in Tsavo East, the Mzima Springs, Shetani Lava Flow, and the Chaimu Crater in Tsavo West.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo East National Park (Approx. 3-4 hours drive)
- Morning (Arrival/Departure): Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Nairobi, you will be met by your professional driver/guide. After a brief welcome and safari briefing, depart for Tsavo East National Park.
- Mid-morning: The drive takes you southeast, passing through changing landscapes. A stop for lunch will be arranged en route, often in a town like Mtito Andei, which is a common gateway to Tsavo.
- Afternoon: Arrive at your chosen lodge or camp inside or near Tsavo East National Park. Check in and have some time to freshen up.
- Late Afternoon: Embark on your first game drive in Tsavo East. This park is known for its vast plains and large herds of elephants, often referred to as "red elephants" due to the red soil they dust themselves with. You'll also have opportunities to see other wildlife, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
- Evening: Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation Suggestions: Ashnil Aruba Lodge, Satao Elerai Camp, Voi Safari Lodge, Manyatta Camp, or similar.
Day 2: Tsavo East to Tsavo West National Park (Approx. 2-3 hours drive)
- Morning: Enjoy an early morning game drive in Tsavo East. This is a great time to see wildlife as they are most active in the cooler hours.
- Mid-morning: Return to the lodge for breakfast.
- Late Morning: Check out of your lodge in Tsavo East and drive to Tsavo West National Park. The drive is relatively short and offers a change in scenery as you move from the open plains of Tsavo East to the hilly and volcanic landscape of Tsavo West.
- Afternoon: Arrive at your chosen lodge or camp in or near Tsavo West. Check in and have lunch.
- Late Afternoon: Begin exploring Tsavo West. This park is known for its dramatic landscapes, including volcanic hills, lava flows, and springs. A visit to Mzima Springs is highly recommended. These natural springs are home to hippos, crocodiles, and various fish species, and offer excellent underwater viewing opportunities.
- Evening: Dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation Suggestions: Finch Hattons Camp, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, Severin Safari Camp, Voyager Ziwani Tented Camp, or similar.
Day 3: Tsavo West to Nairobi (Approx. 4-5 hours drive)
- Morning: Enjoy a final game drive in Tsavo West. Depending on your interests, you could focus on specific areas like the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary (check availability and pre-booking requirements) or explore the diverse landscapes further.
- Mid-morning: Return to the lodge for breakfast.
- Late Morning: Check out and begin the drive back to Nairobi.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for your departure flight or to a hotel for onward travel.
Important Notes :
- This is a sample itinerary and can be customized.
- Driving times are estimates and depend on road conditions.
- It is recommended that you book your safari well in advance.
- Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather, including warm layers (especially for early mornings and evenings), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.