Package Overview

2-Day Safari to Tsavo West National Park

If you’re dreaming of a quick but unforgettable wildlife adventure, a 2-day safari to Tsavo West National Park is the perfect choice. Located between Nairobi and the coastal city of Mombasa, Tsavo West offers everything from dramatic lava landscapes to hippo-filled springs, elephants grazing against volcanic backdrops, and a rich birding experience.

This guide walks you through a day-by-day itinerary, practical planning tips, and essential FAQs. Whether you’re traveling with family, on a budget, or looking for a luxury lodge stay, you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip.

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Getting to Tsavo West

Wondering how to get to Tsavo West from Nairobi by car/air? You have two options:

• By car: From Nairobi, take the Nairobi–Mombasa highway and enter through Mtito Andei Gate. The drive takes about 4–5 hours depending on traffic.

• By air: Several airstrips (e.g., Kilaguni and Finch Hattons) make it possible to fly in directly from Nairobi or Mombasa, ideal if you want to maximize your safari time.

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Day 1: Arrival, Mzima Springs & Shetani Lava Flow

Your adventure begins as you drive into the park mid-morning. After checking in and paying the Tsavo West entrance fees (current 2024 rates are listed by the Kenya Wildlife Service), head straight to Mzima Springs.

Mzima Springs

This oasis is famous for its clear waters and underwater viewing chamber where you can see hippos and fish up close. The best Mzima Springs hippo viewing times are usually early in the morning and late afternoon when hippos are most active.

Shetani Lava Flow

Next, visit the Shetani Lava Flow, a striking black expanse of solidified lava from an eruption centuries ago. If you’re into geology, this site tells a dramatic story of volcanic power, a natural shetani lava flow geology guide in real life.

In the evening, check into your lodge. Options range from family friendly Tsavo West lodges to budget camps, to luxury lodges like Finch Hattons. Dinner under the stars, with the distant sounds of wildlife, makes for a magical end to the day.

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Day 2: Rhino Sanctuary, Birding & Chaimu Crater Hike

Wake up early for a game drive. This is when you’re most likely to spot elephants, lions, and giraffes.

Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary

Visit the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, a fenced area home to the endangered black rhino. It’s one of the park’s highlights and part of the ongoing conservation efforts. The Tsavo West conservation status elephants’ population 2024 is stable, with over 12,000 elephants roaming the wider Tsavo ecosystem, making sightings almost guaranteed.

Birdwatching

Don’t forget your binoculars: Tsavo West is a birder’s paradise. Carry a Tsavo West bird species list / birding checklist to spot hornbills, ostriches, kingfishers, and migratory birds depending on the season.

Chaimu Crater Hike

End your safari with the Chaimu Crater hike. The climb is short but steep, with loose volcanic gravel underfoot. The Chaimu Crater hike difficulty & map make it accessible to moderately fit hikers, and the panoramic views from the top are worth every step.

After lunch, you’ll begin your journey back to Nairobi or Mombasa, full of memories from a whirlwind safari.

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Why Not Extend to 3 Days?

While this is a 2-day safari, some travellers opt for a Tsavo West self-drive itinerary 3 days to slow down and enjoy more game drives, relaxation at lodges, and time for photography. If you can spare the extra day, it’s worth it.

Get in touch with us to book and customize your safari. We are glad to make your Kenya trip unforgettable. We love you