3-Day Tsavo East & Tsavo West Big Five Budget Safari
Key Highlights & Sell Points
Fast “beach-to-bush” connection: pairs perfectly with a Mombasa/Diani holiday.
Encounter Tsavo’s fabled red elephants, Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, Mzima Springs.
Dramatic landscapes: lava flows, baobabs, hills, oasis, and river scenery.
Accessibility
| Start/End | Main Parks | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
Daily Activities
Day 1: Mombasa ➡ Tsavo East National Park – Red Dust & River Life
Early morning departure from Mombasa, heading northwest toward Tsavo East National Park, Kenya’s oldest and largest park, famed for its vastness and raw wilderness.
Scenic drive through semi-arid landscapes, passing local villages and sisal plantations before entering the park via the Bachuma Gate.
Galana River circuit: follow the lifeline of Tsavo East, where crocodiles bask on the banks and herds of iconic red-dusted elephants roam freely. Keep an eye out for waterbucks, giraffes, and the elusive lesser kudu.
Midday check-in at your lodge or tented camp, ideally located with views of a waterhole or open savannah.
Lunch served al fresco, followed by a short rest or swim.
Late afternoon game drive: explore the park’s open plains and acacia woodlands as the golden light enhances your chances of spotting lions, cheetahs, and buffalo.
Optional evening storytelling session around the campfire, with tales of Tsavo’s infamous man-eating lions and conservation efforts.
Early breakfast, then depart westward through the Yatta Plateau, one of the world’s longest lava flows.
Stop at Lugard Falls: marvel at the sculpted rock formations and cascading rapids of the Galana River. A short walk offers dramatic photo opportunities and a chance to spot monitor lizards and kingfishers.
Continue into Tsavo West National Park, known for its rugged terrain, volcanic hills, and dense bush.
Lunch at Ngulia Safari Lodge, perched on the edge of the escarpment with panoramic views.
Afternoon rhino tracking at the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, a protected area home to endangered black rhinos. Learn about anti-poaching efforts and conservation strategies.
Evening ascent to Poacher’s Lookout: enjoy a sundowner cocktail or fresh juice as the sun dips behind the Chyulu Hills, casting long shadows over the plains. This vantage point once used by poachers now offers a peaceful reflection on nature’s resilience.
Early morning visit to Mzima Springs, a crystal-clear oasis fed by underground streams from Mount Kilimanjaro.
Walk along shaded trails to view hippos and crocodiles through an underwater observation chamber.
Spot vervet monkeys, baboons, and colorful birds like the paradise flycatcher.
Optional stop at Shetani Lava Flow, a stark black landscape formed by ancient volcanic activity, with local legends adding mystique.
Mid-morning departure for Mombasa, with scenic views and optional stopovers for souvenirs or local snacks.
Arrival in Mombasa by late afternoon, marking the end of your safari circuit.
Day 2: Tsavo East ➡ Tsavo West – Waterfalls, Rhinos & Sundowners
Day 3: Tsavo West ➡ Mombasa – Springs & Farewell
Accommodation Overview
| Day | Lodge Name | Category | Main Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
- Possible amenities include bush dinners, night game drives, Wi-Fi, spa (select lodges).
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions: All game drives, park fees, full-board, pro-guide, pick-up/drop-off at Mombasa.
Exclusions: International flights, laundry, tips, drinks, optional activities.
Packing List & Requirements
Soft duffel, quick-dry clothing, lens for photo, malaria prophylaxis, eVisa.