Day 1 — Coast to Tsavo East
Drive from Malindi/Mombasa to Tsavo East. Afternoon game drive — dusty elephants, giraffe and large plains game. Overnight near Voi.
Why visit Tsavo?
Tsavo East & West form one of Kenya’s largest protected areas — vast, wild and less crowded than the major parks. Expect wide-open plains, volcanic landscapes, the famous red elephants, and unique attractions like Mzima Springs.
~13,700 km²
Combined area of Tsavo East & West
Red Elephants
Dust-coated elephants that roll in the red soil of Tsavo East
Diverse Terrain
Lava flows, springs, escarpments and riverine galleries
📍 Getting There & Best Time to Visit
Tsavo is accessible from Mombasa (approx. 2–4 hours by road) and Malindi (approx. 4–5 hours). The main gates for Tsavo East include Voi and Galana; Tsavo West includes many points near Mtito Andei and the Kilaguni area.
Best time: June–October for dry-season game viewing and easier roads. January–February is also good for fewer crowds. Heavy rains in April–May can make some tracks impassable.
Tip: Consider an early-morning departure from the coast to arrive mid-day for your first game drive.
🦏 Wildlife & Landscape Highlights
Tsavo East
- Red Elephants — dust-covered giants of the savanna.
- Open plains with large herds of buffalo and giraffe.
- Voi River and Galana River habitats with diverse water wildlife.
Tsavo West
- Mzima Springs — underwater hippos and clear pools ideal for viewing.
- Lava flows & Shetani — dramatic geology and scenic viewpoints.
- Rhino & rare species (scattered sightings), and strong birdlife.
🗺️ Park Map & Pick-Up Points
View your custom markers for Tsavo East & West, key gates (Voi, Galana, Mtito Andei), and coastal pick-up points.
📋 Sample 3-Day Tsavo Safari Itinerary
Day 2 — East to West (Mzima Springs)
Morning game drive in Tsavo East, then transfer to Tsavo West. Visit Mzima Springs, walking viewpoints and scenic lava flows. Overnight in Tsavo West lodge/camp.
Day 3 — Morning Game Drive & Return
Early morning game drive, then return to the coast via scenic route with optional sundowner stop.
🏨 Accommodation Options
Budget
Ashnil Aruba (East), Rhino Valley (West) — comfortable camps with basic amenities.
Mid-Range
Voi Wildlife Lodge (East), Finch Hattons (West) — good comfort and location.
Luxury
Severin Safari Camp, Kilaguni Serena Lodge — upscale lodges with excellent guides.
✔️ What’s Included / Not
- Park fees & guided game drives
- Accommodation & meals (as described)
- Transport from/to Malindi or Mombasa (if arranged)
- International flights & visas
- Alcohol, personal expenses & tipping
- Travel insurance
🎯 Essential Safari Tips
Packing & Gear
- Neutral clothing layers, hat, good walking shoes for short walks.
- Binoculars and camera with telephoto lens (200–400mm recommended).
- Water, snacks & refillable bottle — remote areas have limited shops.
Health & Safety
- Consult your travel clinic for malaria prophylaxis and routine vaccines.
- Follow your guide's instructions — wildlife is unpredictable.
- Do not exit the vehicle except where explicitly allowed by your guide.
📸 Photo Gallery
⭐ Traveler Reviews
“The guides were fantastic and the red elephants were a highlight. Great service from Waypoint Tours.”
“Mzima Springs was surreal — clear pools and hippos. Well organized trip.”
Ready to explore Tsavo?
Contact Waypoint Tours Malindi for custom Tsavo itineraries, flexible dates and expert local guides.