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Tsavo West · Private Tour

Tsavo West Safari

  • Duration2 days / 1 night
  • Group size1–12 guests
  • DifficultyModerate
  • AvailabilityOn request
From KES 62,000 per person
Book now Request a quote

Overview

Tsavo West safari: springs, lava and rugged bush

Tsavo West feels quite different from its eastern neighbour. The land is hillier and greener, with volcanic outcrops, crater lakes, seasonal streams and thick bush that gives the park a more secretive, exploratory feel. This two-day Tsavo West safari is planned as a private trip from the Kenya coast, with the route, lodge and pace shaped around your group.

Places worth the detour

Mzima Springs is the best-known stop, where crystal-clear water rising from underground supports hippos, crocodiles and fish, and an underwater viewing chamber lets visitors watch them from below. Nearby, the Shetani lava flow is a black, jagged field left by a relatively recent eruption, and Chaimu Crater is an easy climb with wide views. The Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary protects black rhino, though sightings inside secure sanctuaries are never assured. On clear mornings there can be views towards Mount Kilimanjaro.

What wildlife to expect

Elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, lesser kudu, lion and leopard live in the park, alongside plentiful birdlife. Thicker vegetation means animals can be harder to spot than on open plains, so a patient, experienced driver-guide makes a real difference.

A simple two-day plan

The first day is the drive inland, lunch, and an afternoon of game viewing and a stop at Mzima Springs. The second day includes a morning game drive, time at the lava flow or crater, and the return to the coast. Travelling from Nairobi is also possible, and Tsavo West combines well with Tsavo East or Amboseli for a longer trip.

Best time to visit

June to October and January to February are drier and better for wildlife around water. The green season, roughly March to May and November, is scenic but muddier.

Good to know

Walking near Mzima Springs is on marked paths with a ranger. Fees, lodge tiers and season change the total, so the price shown is a guide, and the final quote is confirmed before you pay. Tips, drinks and visas are extra.

Highlights

  • Mzima Springs and its hippo pools
  • Shetani lava flow and Chaimu Crater
  • Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary
  • Rugged, greener scenery than Tsavo East

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Day 1 – Coast to Tsavo West

    Drive inland, lunch at the lodge and an afternoon visit to Mzima Springs with a game drive.

  2. 2

    Day 2 – Lava flow and return

    Morning game drive, time at Shetani lava flow or Chaimu Crater, then the return to the coast.

What’s included

Included

  • Return transfers from the coast
  • driver-guide
  • 1 night full board in a lodge or tented camp
  • Tsavo West park fees
  • game drives
  • bottled water

Not included

  • Flights
  • visas
  • travel insurance
  • drinks
  • tips
  • optional activities
  • personal expenses

Practical information

Departure
Mombasa and coast hotels, early morning
Pickup
Mombasa, Diani and north coast hotels
Meeting point
Confirmed after pickup location is provided
Accommodation
Lodge or tented camp near Mtito Andei or the Mzima Springs area
Best time to go
June–October and January–February
Recommended age
Ages 5+
Cancellation & changes
Free request changes before final confirmation; final terms depend on the selected supplier.
How to book
Submit your dates and guest details. Our team confirms availability and the final itinerary before payment.
Guide price basis
Per person sharing, 2-day safari from Mombasa, one night full board, park fees and 4x4 vehicle. This is an estimate based on current market rates; the final price is confirmed in writing before any payment.

Frequently asked questions

Can we see the Mzima Springs hippos?

Hippos are regularly seen at Mzima Springs, but visibility varies with water clarity and time of day.

Is Tsavo West better than Tsavo East?

They are different. Tsavo West is hillier and greener; Tsavo East is flatter with big open plains. Many travellers combine both.

Can this trip start in Nairobi?

Yes, we can start from Nairobi or the coast; the price is quoted for the starting point you choose.

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