Destination

3-Day Nairobi to Tsavo West, Tsavo East & Mombasa Safari – Best Itinerary

Experience Kenya’s Best 3-Day Safari Adventure

Looking for a short yet thrilling safari from Nairobi to Mombasa? This 3-day safari takes you through Tsavo West & Tsavo East National Parks, Kenya’s largest wildlife reserves, before concluding at Mombasa’s stunning beaches. Expect breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a seamless transition from safari to coastal relaxation.

 

Journey Highlights:
Tsavo West – Scenic landscapes, rhino sanctuary & Mzima Springs
Tsavo East – Famous for red elephants, lions & vast open plains
Mombasa Beaches – Relax at Diani, Nyali, or Watamu

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Route to Nairobi Tsavo west Tsavo East Mombasa

Day-by-Day Itinerary – 3-Day Tsavo & Mombasa Safari

Distance: 250 km | Duration: Approx. 4 Hours
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner

Morning: Departure from Nairobi.

Your adventure begins at 7:00 AM when your professional Annest Kenya Safaris driver/guide picks you up from your hotel, residence, or airport. As you leave behind the bustling city of Nairobi, you’ll embark on a scenic drive along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, heading towards one of Kenya’s most breathtaking wildlife havens—Tsavo West National Park.

Arrival at Tsavo West National Park

You’ll know you’ve reached Tsavo West when the vast golden plains stretch endlessly before you. The park is home to Kenya’s largest population of elephants, often seen roaming in large herds, dusting themselves in the rich red soil.

Wildlife Encounters & Scenic Wonders

  • Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary – A rare opportunity to spot some of the 80 protected black rhinos, part of an ongoing conservation effort.
  • Mzima Springs – A spectacular freshwater oasis, producing millions of liters of crystal-clear water, drawing in hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. A unique underwater viewing chamber allows you to observe hippos and fish in their natural habitat.
  • Diverse Landscapes – From acacia woodlands to towering baobab trees and the rugged remains of ancient volcanic eruptions, Tsavo West is a land of contrasts. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance.

Evening: Relaxation & Overnight Stay

As the sun sets over the African wilderness, you’ll settle into your chosen safari lodge or tented camp for a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

Tomorrow, your journey continues to Tsavo East National Park, where even more incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes await!

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Morning: Sunrise Game Drive & Journey to Tsavo East

Wake up to the fresh morning air of Tsavo West National Park and embark on an early game drive, taking in the last views of this spectacular landscape. After breakfast, we’ll set off towards Tsavo East National Park, Kenya’s largest and one of its most iconic wildlife sanctuaries.

Tsavo East National Park – Home of the Red Elephants

As you enter Tsavo East, you’ll immediately notice its vast open plains and golden savannahs, teeming with wildlife. One of the most unforgettable sights here is the herds of red-dust elephants, rolling in the park’s rich, oxide-red soil and giving themselves a striking reddish hue.

Incredible Wildlife & Landscapes

  • Big Five & More – Keep an eye out for lions, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and leopards as they roam freely across the park.
  • Galana River – A lifeline for the park, this river attracts hippos, crocodiles, and waterbuck, creating excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Mudanda Rock – A towering rock formation that acts as a natural dam, drawing in thousands of elephants and other animals seeking water.
  • Yatta Plateau – At 300 km in length, this is the world’s longest lava flow and a paradise for birdwatchers, attracting migrating species from across the globe.

Evening: Relax & Overnight Stay

As the sun dips below the horizon, settle into your Tsavo East safari lodge or tented camp, where you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

This marks the perfect end to an action-packed safari, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife. Book your Tsavo adventure today!

Distance: 120 km | Duration: Approx. 3 Hours
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Final Game Drive in Tsavo East

Before saying goodbye to Tsavo East National Park, we’ll take one last early morning game drive, giving you another chance to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and more in their natural habitat. The golden morning light over the vast savannah makes for spectacular wildlife photography.

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll head towards the Voi Train Station, where your next adventure begins.

Train to the Coast – Madaraka Express Experience

At Voi, your Annest Kenya Safaris driver/guide will assist with your smooth transition onto the Madaraka Express Train—a modern, high-speed railway linking Tsavo to Mombasa and the beautiful Kenyan coast.

Why You’ll Love the Train Ride:

First-class ticket included – Enjoy an air-conditioned compartment with a comfortable reclining seat.
Panoramic Views – The train is elevated above the highway, offering breathtaking views of Tsavo East’s landscapes and wildlife.
Onboard Amenities – A buffet car with snacks and drinks, plus clean restrooms for your convenience.

Train Schedule:

  • 11:45 AM: Arrive at Voi Train Station.
  • 12:08 PM: Depart Voi on the Madaraka Express Train, soaking in the final glimpses of Tsavo East’s wilderness.
  • 2:00 PM: Arrive at Mombasa Train Station, where our transfer team will be waiting for you.

Seamless Transfer to Your Beach Destination

Upon arrival in Mombasa, we’ll provide a comfortable transfer to your preferred beach destination—whether it’s Diani, Mombasa, Malindi, Watamu, or Kilifi.

Now, it’s time to relax on Kenya’s stunning white-sand beaches, reflecting on an unforgettable safari experience.

Book your dream safari and beach getaway today!

3-Day Tsavo West & Tsavo East Safari – A Journey Through Kenya’s Wild Beauty

Looking for an unforgettable short safari? This 3-day Tsavo West and Tsavo East adventure is packed with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and natural wonders. From volcanic terrain to vast savannahs teeming with animals, this safari offers the best of Kenya’s wild side.

 

 

Tour Highlights: 3-Day Tsavo West & Tsavo East Safari

mASAI MARA SAFARI

Day 1: Tsavo West National Park – A Land of Volcanoes & Springs

Begin your journey in Tsavo West National Park, a rugged wilderness filled with recent volcanic formations, ancient lava flows, and stunning natural springs.

Highlights of the Day:

  • Explore Recent Volcanoes & Lava Flows – Witness dramatic landscapes shaped by past eruptions.
  • Mzima Springs – Visit this crystal-clear oasis, home to hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant fish. A unique underwater viewing area lets you see hippos gliding beneath the surface!
  • Game Viewing – Spot elephants, lions, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes as you explore the park.

As the day ends, relax at your safari lodge or tented camp, enjoying the peaceful sounds of the African wilderness.

The great migration

Day 2: Tsavo East National Park – Land of the Legendary Red Elephants

On the second day, head to Tsavo East National Park, known for its iconic dust-red elephants and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights of the Day:

  • Dust-Red Elephants – Marvel at these majestic creatures covered in the park’s red soil.
  • Aruba Dam – A prime spot for wildlife viewing, where herds of animals gather to drink.
  • Mudanda Rock – This towering rock formation overlooks a natural dam that attracts thousands of elephants.
  • The Yatta Plateau – At 300 km long, this is the world’s longest lava flow and a haven for migrating birds.

After an exciting safari, return to Nairobi or continue your journey to the coast for a relaxing beach escape.

Tsavo East Park Safari Lodges & Tented Camps

 
safari from Nairobi

Economy Level

Voi Safari Lodge

Kenya safari lodges and tented camps

Comfort Level

Ashnil Aruba Lodge
Sentrim Tsavo Camp
Voi Wildlife Lodge
Galana Crocodile Camp
Ngutuni Safari Lodge

Luxury Safari in Kenya Angama Mara

Luxury Level

Satao Camp

Tsavo West Safari Lodges & Tented Camps

Kenya safari

Economy Level

Ngulia Safari Lodge

Kenya safari lodges and tented camps

Comfort Level

Kilaguni Serena Lodge

Customized Kenya safaris

Luxury Level

Kilaguni Serena Lodge
Severin Safari Camp
Ziwani Tented Camp
Salt Lick Safari Lodge
Soroi Lions Bluff Lodge
Finch Hatton Luxury Tented Camp

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Nairobi to Mombasa for a safari

Best for scenery: Take the Madaraka Express Train & stop at Tsavo
Best for wildlife: Take a road trip safari through Amboseli & Tsavo
Best for luxury: Fly-in safari to Amboseli, Tsavo, or Maasai Mara

Prices range from $500 (budget train safari) to $6,000+ (luxury fly-in safari).

Yes! The Madaraka Express Train offers great views of wildlife in Tsavo, making it a scenic, budget-friendly safari experience.

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