3-Day Tsavo East and Tsavo West Classic Safari

Tsavo

Rates From $750

About This Tour

Tsavo East and Tsavo West offer a journey through contrasting landscapes, from red-earth plains to volcanic springs. The itinerary suits travellers seeking a short but intense immersion into Kenya’s oldest and largest protected areas.

The route travels from the lush, spring-fed greenery of Tsavo West to the vast, open savannahs of Tsavo East. The journey ends with a transition toward the Kenyan coast.

The pace is steady, allowing for multiple game drives across different ecosystems. Movement between the parks is unhurried, focusing on the changing textures of the landscape.

Our Community Impact

Johnbow prioritizes lodges that employ staff from local communities near Tsavo. These partnerships provide steady income and support local families. We also select partners who contribute to community-led conservation initiatives that protect the park’s boundaries.

Our Sustainability Promise

We choose lodges that operate with a light environmental footprint, such as Satao and Kilaguni Serena. These properties use sustainable waste management and energy-saving practices to protect the fragile Tsavo ecosystem.

Why This Safari Works

The routing follows a logical line from Nairobi toward the coast, making it an ideal bridge between the city and the beach. By spending one night in each park, the itinerary balances the volcanic scenery of the West with the high wildlife density of the East. The use of road transport allows for a continuous safari experience without the need for internal flights. This structure works best for first-time safari guests, couples, and those with limited time.

Your Trip at a Glance

A snapshot of your entire experience, from key highlights to where you'll stay and what to expect each day.

  • 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • Big Five Experience
  • Birding Experience
  • Bush Breakfast / Bush Dinner
  • Classic Safari
  • Couple
  • Family
  • Full Board
  • Game Drives

Trip Summary

  • Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo West
  • Day 2: Tsavo West to Tsavo East
  • Day 3: Tsavo East to Coast

Destinations

  • Tsavo East National Park
  • Tsavo West National Park

Where You Stay

  • Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge: 1 Night
  • Satao Camp: 1 Night

Safari Highlights

  • Volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West
  • Crystal clear waters of Mzima Springs
  • Large herds of red-dust elephants
  • Views of the Chyulu Hills
  • Open plains of Tsavo East
  • Evening waterhole sightings at Kilaguni
  • Classic tented camp experience at Satao
  • Sunrise over the savannah

Featured Destinations

Where You Stay

Route Map

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Itinerary Highlights

  • Views of the Chyulu Hills
  • Afternoon game drive in Tsavo West
  • Evening at the Kilaguni waterhole

Itinerary information

The journey begins with a drive from Nairobi into the rugged terrain of Tsavo West. The landscape features ancient lava flows and thick acacia woodland. In the afternoon, the vehicle moves through the park toward the lodge, observing wildlife among the volcanic hills. The day ends with a quiet evening overlooking a waterhole where animals gather to drink.

  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Kilaguni Serena

Itinerary Highlights

  • Visit to Mzima Springs
  • Vast plains of Tsavo East
  • Red-earth elephant sightings

Itinerary information

The morning starts with a visit to Mzima Springs to see hippos and crocodiles in clear water. The safari then moves eastward, entering the wide-open savannahs of Tsavo East. This park is famous for its large elephant population and distinctive red soil. The afternoon game drive offers clear views across the plains before arriving at the tented camp for the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Satao Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Early morning game drive
  • Galana River views
  • Transition to the Kenyan coast

Itinerary information

A final morning game drive captures the park as the sun rises over the Yatta Plateau. The vehicle travels toward the park exit, following the Galana River. After leaving the park, the journey continues toward the tropical coastline for the next stage of the trip.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: None (End of Safari)

JohnBow Safari Expert Insight

❝ This route is the most efficient way to see both Tsavo parks while travelling from the city to the beach. It offers great landscape variety in just three days. ❞

~Safari Team

Rates

Competitive rates for unforgettable experiences

SeasonDate Range2 Guests4 Guests6 Guests
Shoulder SeasonJan – March, 2026$980$810$750
Peak SeasonJuly – Oct, 2026$1,090$895$830

Important Rate Notes

  • Rates vary based on seasonal availability and room types.
  • Single room supplements apply for solo travellers.
  • Child policies differ by lodge and require confirmation at booking.
  • Lodge substitutions of a similar standard may be offered if needed.

What's Included

  • Accommodation as listed
  • Private 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • Daily game drives
  • All ground transfers
  • All meals as listed
  • All national park entry fees
  • Professional English-speaking driver guide

Optional Addons

  • Bush sundowner
  • Hot air balloon safari
  • Night game drive
  • Guided nature walk

What's Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Premium drinks
  • Laundry service

Ready to start planning your Safari? Tell us your travel dates, who you are traveling with, and what matters most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tsavo West is hilly and volcanic with thick vegetation, while Tsavo East consists of vast, flat savannah plains.
Yes, this itinerary is specifically designed to end at the coast, making it a perfect pre-beach activity.
A private four-by-four Land Cruiser is provided for all game drives and transfers.

See What Our Travellers Have To Say

info@johnbowtoursandtravel.com
Kenya Cinema Plaza, 3rd Floor Room 3-8. Moi Avenue, Nairobi