3-Day Tsavo & Taita Hills Train Safari Package from Nairobi

Ideal for: Lovers of Something Diffrent, safari travelers, couples, and off beaten track adventurers
Style: Train / Midrange Safari
Route: Nairobi – Salt Lick Lodge  - Taita Hills Lodge - (by rail) – Nairobi

A Scenic Train Journey and an Unforgettable Safari in Tsavo and Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

Step aboard the Madaraka Express and travel from Nairobi into Kenya’s southern wilderness, where the landscapes of Tsavo and the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary unfold into one seamless safari experience. This short yet rewarding journey combines scenic rail travel with close-up wildlife encounters in one of Kenya’s most accessible safari circuits.

At the heart of the experience are two iconic lodges:
Taita Hills Safari Lodge and Salt Lick Safari Lodge. Together, they offer a perfect blend of classic safari comfort and unique wildlife viewing over waterholes and open plains.

In just three days, you experience the thrill of game drives in Tsavo’s vast landscapes, the intimacy of a private conservancy in Taita Hills, and the unforgettable sight of elephants and buffalo just meters from your lodge balcony.

This is a true “rails to the wild” safari—fast, scenic, and rich in wildlife—ideal for travelers who want a quick escape from Nairobi without missing the essence of an authentic Kenyan safari.

Taita Hills Safari Lodge & Salt Lick Safari Lodge – A Complete 3-Day Train Safari Experience from Nairobi

The Taita Hills safari circuit is one of Kenya’s most underrated yet rewarding safari experiences. Located in the heart of the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, this destination blends dramatic landscapes, rich conservation history, and easy accessibility from both Nairobi and Mombasa via the SGR train. It is one of the few safari destinations in Kenya where you can combine affordability, wildlife density, and comfort within a short 3-day itinerary.

At the center of this ecosystem are two iconic properties:

• Taita Hills Safari Lodge
• Salt Lick Safari Lodge

Together, they form the backbone of the Taita Hills safari experience and offer one of the most accessible “quick safari” circuits in Kenya.

Over the years, the lodge has been associated with different branding and management references, including Hilton-linked marketing in earlier periods and later Sarova-associated branding in the region. Today, it is most commonly known simply as Taita Hills Safari Lodge, with Salt Lick Safari Lodge standing as its sister property. Regardless of branding changes, what remains constant is the conservation focus, wildlife density, and signature safari experience within the private sanctuary.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about a 3-day train safari from Nairobi to Taita Hills, including lodge experiences, game drives, the ecosystem, travel logistics, and why this remains one of the best value safari packages in Kenya.

Why Taita Hills Is One of Kenya’s Best Value Safari Destinations

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary sits between Tsavo West and Tsavo East, forming part of one of the largest and oldest ecosystems in Africa. This positioning is important because it allows wildlife to move freely across vast conservation landscapes, creating a natural safari experience that feels authentic and uncrowded.

Unlike the more commercial parks such as Maasai Mara or Amboseli, Taita Hills offers:

• Fewer vehicles during game drives
• High chances of private wildlife viewing
• Affordable luxury accommodation options
• Easy access from the SGR railway line
• A compact safari circuit ideal for short trips

For travelers who want a quick escape from Nairobi without sacrificing wildlife quality, this destination delivers exceptional value.

The Evolution of Taita Hills Safari Lodges

One of the most interesting aspects of this destination is its layered history.

Over time, the lodges in the sanctuary have been referred to in different ways:

• Earlier references linked the lodge experience with Hilton branding
• Later, Sarova Hotels & Resorts became associated with the Taita Hills circuit
• Today, the core properties are simply known under the Taita Hills Safari Lodge identity

Despite these branding transitions, the essence of the experience has remained unchanged: conservation-driven tourism supported by consistent hospitality standards and strong wildlife protection efforts.

The two key properties remain:

Taita Hills Safari Lodge

A classic safari lodge set on a hillside overlooking the sanctuary plains.

Salt Lick Safari Lodge

A world-famous elevated lodge built on stilts, designed for uninterrupted wildlife viewing at water level.

Together, they create one of the most unique safari combinations in Kenya.

Getting There – The Nairobi to Taita Hills Train Safari

One of the biggest advantages of this safari is accessibility. The introduction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) between Nairobi and Mombasa has transformed how travelers reach Tsavo and Taita Hills.

The journey begins in Nairobi and takes approximately 4–5 hours to reach the Voi SGR station, which is the closest major drop-off point to Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.

From Voi:

• A 45–60 minute transfer takes you directly into the sanctuary
• Game viewing often begins immediately upon entry
• The transition from railway to wilderness is seamless

This is why the experience is often described as a “train safari”—you literally travel from urban Nairobi into a fully wild ecosystem within half a day.

Day 1 – Nairobi to Taita Hills Safari Lodge

Your journey begins early in the morning with a transfer to Nairobi’s SGR terminal. As the train departs, the city slowly fades into open savannah landscapes, dotted with acacia trees and distant hills.

Upon arrival at Voi:

• You are met by your safari guide
• A short game drive en route introduces you to elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelope
• Entry into the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary marks the start of your safari experience

Check-in at
Taita Hills Safari Lodge

The lodge sits in a scenic elevated position overlooking the sanctuary, offering panoramic views of wildlife corridors below.

Afternoon Experience

After lunch and a short rest, you head out for your first full game drive.

Expect sightings of:

• Elephants moving in family groups
• Buffalo herds grazing near waterholes
• Giraffes silhouetted against the sunset
• Lions resting in the shade of acacia trees

The sanctuary is known for its strong predator population, making evening drives particularly rewarding.

Evening at the Lodge

Return to the lodge as the sun sets over the Taita Hills. Dinner is served in a warm, rustic dining setting, followed by relaxation around the fire area or viewing deck.

The night sounds of the bush—hyenas, distant lions, and rustling elephants—create an authentic safari atmosphere.

Day 2 – Full Day Safari in Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

Day two is dedicated entirely to exploring the ecosystem in depth.

After an early breakfast, you depart for a morning game drive. This is the best time to spot predators as they are still active from the night.

Morning Game Drive Highlights

• Lion prides on the move
• Leopards resting on tree branches
• Large elephant herds crossing plains
• Birdlife including hornbills, eagles, and kingfishers

The Taita Hills ecosystem is particularly rich in bird diversity, making it ideal for both casual and serious bird watchers.

Midday Rest

Return to
Taita Hills Safari Lodge for lunch and relaxation.

Guests often spend midday enjoying:

• Swimming pool views of the plains
• Lounge areas overlooking wildlife corridors
• Cultural and conservation storytelling sessions

Afternoon Transfer to Salt Lick Safari Lodge

In the afternoon, you are transferred to the iconic Salt Lick property:

Salt Lick Safari Lodge

This lodge is one of the most photographed safari lodges in Africa due to its unique architectural design.

Built on stilts above a busy waterhole, Salt Lick allows you to watch wildlife up close from your room balcony.

Evening Game Viewing from the Lodge

Instead of driving, your safari continues right from your room.

Expect:

• Elephants drinking just meters away
• Buffalo gathering in large herds
• Nocturnal wildlife arriving at the waterhole
• Stunning sunset photography opportunities

Dinner is served overlooking the illuminated waterhole, where wildlife continues to gather throughout the night.

Day 3 – Sunrise Safari and Return to Nairobi

Your final morning begins early, as sunrise over the Taita Hills creates soft golden light across the plains.

Early Morning Game Drive

Before departure, you take a short game drive to maximize final sightings. Early mornings are excellent for:

• Predator tracking
• Fresh kill activity (if lucky)
• Herd movement across open plains

Breakfast and Checkout

Return to Salt Lick for breakfast before check-out.

You then begin your journey back to Voi for the SGR train to Nairobi.

By afternoon or evening, you are back in the city—completing a full safari loop in just three days.

What Makes Salt Lick Safari Lodge Unique?

Salt Lick Safari Lodge is often considered one of the most unique safari lodges in Africa for several reasons:

1. Elevated Design

Built on stilts, the lodge offers uninterrupted views of wildlife at eye level.

2. Constant Wildlife Activity

The waterhole below the lodge attracts animals day and night.

3. Photography Opportunities

It is one of the best places in Kenya for close-range wildlife photography without leaving your room.

4. Night Game Viewing

Floodlights illuminate the waterhole, allowing 24-hour safari experiences.

Why Taita Hills Safari Lodge Complements Salt Lick

Taita Hills Safari Lodge offers a different but complementary experience:

• More traditional safari lodge atmosphere
• Spacious rooms and hillside views
• Swimming pool and relaxation areas
• Ideal base for game drives

Together, the two lodges create a balanced safari experience: comfort + immersion + wildlife proximity.

Wildlife in Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is home to a wide range of species, including:

• Elephants (large herds are common)
• Lions (stable resident prides)
• Leopards (elusive but present)
• Buffalo
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Impalas and gazelles
• Warthogs

The sanctuary also plays a key conservation role as a wildlife corridor between Tsavo East and Tsavo West.

Best Time to Visit Taita Hills

Taita Hills is a year-round safari destination, but the experience varies by season:

Dry Season (June to October, January to February)

• Best wildlife visibility
• Animals gather at waterholes
• Easier photography conditions

Green Season (March to May, November to December)

• Lush landscapes
• Fewer tourists
• Great birding opportunities

Who This Safari Is Perfect For

The 3-day Taita Hills train safari is ideal for:

• First-time safari travelers
• Families with limited time
• Nairobi-based professionals
• Budget-conscious safari travelers
• Couples looking for a quick escape
• Photographers and bird watchers

It is one of the most efficient ways to experience a full safari without traveling deep into remote parks.

Why This Is One of Kenya’s Best Short Safaris

The combination of train travel, short transfer times, and high wildlife density makes Taita Hills unique.

You get:

• Safari within 4–5 hours of Nairobi
• Two distinct lodge experiences
• Continuous wildlife viewing opportunities
• Affordable luxury accommodation
• Strong conservation environment

Few destinations in Kenya offer this balance of accessibility and wildlife immersion.

A Safari That Delivers More Than Expected

The Taita Hills safari experience is often underestimated, but it consistently delivers beyond expectations. Whether you are staying at the hillside comfort of Taita Hills Safari Lodge or the iconic water-level views of Salt Lick Safari Lodge, the result is the same: a deeply immersive, accessible, and rewarding safari experience.

For travelers looking for a quick yet authentic wildlife escape from Nairobi, the Taita Hills train safari remains one of Kenya’s best-kept secrets—efficient, scenic, and rich in wildlife encounters.

Discover the Magic of Tsavo East

Tsavo East National Park is one of Kenya’s oldest and largest national parks, covering more than 13,700 square kilometers. It forms part of the great Tsavo ecosystem—home to the legendary “Man-Eaters of Tsavo,” red-dusted elephants, and timeless landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

This is Kenya in its most elemental form:

• Endless plains scattered with acacia and baobab trees
• Red earth that coats the elephants, giving them their iconic “red” appearance
• The Galana River, winding through the dry savannah, drawing wildlife to its banks
• The Yatta Plateau, the world’s longest lava flow, standing like a natural monument to Kenya’s volcanic past

Within just a few hours of leaving Nairobi, you find yourself in a completely different world—raw, rugged, and alive with wildlife.

Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Included:

• Return First Class SGR train tickets (Nairobi–Voi–Nairobi)
• Transfers between Voi Station and your safari lodge
•  WW1 Talk & visit Artifacts Museum at Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa
• 2 nights’ accommodation 1 Night @ Taita Hills Lodge & 1 Night @ Salt Lick Lodge
• Meals as per itinerary (Full Board – breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver
• Daily game drives and bottled water during safari
• Shared Return Transfers: Inclusive from Voi Train Station.
•  Sanctuary Entry Fees: Included.

Not Included:

• Tips and gratuities
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Optional excursions and activities not mentioned
• Personal travel insurance
• Items of a personal nature
• Anything not mentioned under “Included”

Best Time to Visit Tsavo East

Tsavo East is a year-round destination, offering unique experiences in every season.

• June to October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife viewing as animals gather at water sources. The skies are clear, and game drives are most rewarding.
• November to December (Short Rains): The park is lush and scenic, with dramatic skies and fewer visitors.
• March to May (Long Rains): Known as the green season. It’s peaceful and photographic, though some roads may be muddy.
• December to February: Warm and dry—ideal for safaris, especially for visitors combining Tsavo with a beach holiday at the coast.

Getting There

By Train (Recommended):

The Madaraka Express SGR makes traveling to Tsavo easy, fast, and scenic.

• Morning Train: Departs Nairobi at 8:20 AM and arrives in Voi around 12:00 PM, perfect for an afternoon game drive.
• Afternoon Train: Departs Nairobi at 3:00 PM, arriving in Voi around 6:00 PM—ideal if you prefer to settle in and begin game drives the next morning.

Your guide will be waiting at the station to transfer you directly to your lodge.

By Road:

For travelers preferring a private drive, Tsavo East is approximately 6 hours from Nairobi via the Nairobi–Mombasa Highway (A109). The journey offers scenic stops along the way and flexibility in timing.

Where to Stay

Tsavo East offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler—from classic safari lodges to intimate tented camps surrounded by wilderness.

Other Options Include:

• Ashnil Aruba Lodge: Overlooking the Aruba Dam, great for waterhole wildlife sightings.
• Voi Safari Lodge: Panoramic views and easy access from the train station.
• Satao Camp: A classic tented camp experience with elephants often visiting the camp’s waterhole.
• Manyatta Camp: Blends comfort and authenticity, located near Voi Gate.

All options offer Full Board meal plans, game drives, and warm Kenyan hospitality.

What to Pack

To make the most of your safari, consider packing the following essentials:

• Light, neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors and dark blues)
• Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
• Binoculars and a good camera for photography
• Insect repellent
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm layers for early morning game drives
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel documents and personal essentials

Responsible Travel

Tsavo East is a fragile ecosystem—your visit can help protect it. Here’s how you can travel responsibly:

• Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance and never feed animals.
• Stay on designated tracks to prevent habitat damage.
• Avoid single-use plastics and carry your waste back to your lodge.
• Support local communities: Purchase locally made crafts or visit nearby cultural initiatives.
• Choose eco-conscious lodges that invest in conservation and renewable energy.

Your safari isn’t just an adventure—it’s a contribution to preserving Kenya’s natural heritage for future generations.

Why Choose “Rails to the Wild”

The Rails to the Wild – 2 Nights in the Heart of Tsavo East safari captures the essence of Kenya’s wilderness in a compact, well-organized package. Here’s why it’s one of the best short safaris you can take from Nairobi:

1. Seamless Travel: Enjoy the comfort and efficiency of the SGR train—no long drives, no traffic.
2. Immersive Safari Experience: Two full days inside Tsavo East means plenty of time to explore and relax.
3. Perfect Short Getaway: Ideal for busy professionals, couples, or families with limited time.
4. Flexibility: Customize your experience with optional activities, from guided nature walks to sundowners by the Galana River.
5. Affordability: You get the full safari experience without the high cost of flying.
6. Eco-Friendly: Train travel leaves a smaller carbon footprint, supporting sustainable tourism.

Whether it’s your first safari or your tenth, Tsavo East’s wide horizons, rich wildlife, and evocative landscapes leave a lasting impression.

Quick Facts

Extend Your Adventure

If you’d like to spend more time exploring Kenya, consider combining your Tsavo safari with a coastal beach escape in Diani, Watamu, or Mombasa. After two nights in the wild, you can continue your train journey to the coast for sun, sand, and sea.

Alternatively, you can extend your safari to include Tsavo West, Amboseli, or the Taita Hills, creating a 5–7 day itinerary filled with variety and adventure.

Book Your Safari

Rails to the Wild – 2 Nights in the Heart of Tsavo East is your gateway to Kenya’s wild heart—just a train ride away from Nairobi. It’s a short break that delivers big on wildlife, landscapes, and relaxation.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or as a family, this safari offers the perfect balance of comfort, authenticity, and adventure.

Book your 2 Nights Tsavo East Safari by Train today and experience Kenya’s wild heart—just a train ride away.If you would want a more customized safari in Kenya please reach out to us . The Holiday Dealers - Tailor Made Safaris.

The Lions of Tsavo – History, Wildlife Encounters & the Legend of the Man-Eaters

A safari to Tsavo is never complete without understanding the remarkable story of the Tsavo lions—one of the most studied and talked-about lion populations in the world. These lions, made famous by their unique appearance and dramatic place in Kenyan history, continue to inspire curiosity among travelers, researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Tsavo is home to one of Africa’s largest protected ecosystems, and within this landscape, the lions of Tsavo have evolved distinct characteristics that set them apart from other lion populations across the continent.

Why Tsavo Lions Are Different

The typical Tsavo lion is known for its short or almost absent mane, a trait shaped by the region’s intense heat, thorny vegetation, and rugged terrain. Unlike their Serengeti or Mara cousins, Tsavo lions tend to have more muscular builds and stronger hunting tendencies, often forming smaller and more flexible prides. These behavioral differences are part of what continues to make lion research in National Park Tsavo both fascinating and important.

Tsavo is divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, collectively forming the largest national park in Kenya. Both parks offer opportunities to observe the lions of Tsavo in natural hunting territories—open plains, thick woodland, or rocky outcrops where they patrol for prey. Whether you are staying inside Tsavo East or exploring the volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West, lion sightings are some of the most rewarding moments on any Tsavo safari.

The Man-Eaters of Tsavo – A Legendary Chapter in History

No discussion about Tsavo lions is complete without the chilling story of the Man Eaters of Tsavo. In 1898, during the construction of the Kenya-Uganda Railway, workers camped near the Tsavo River were stalked and attacked by two unusually bold lions. Over several months, these lions became known as the Tsavo man-eaters, creating fear and chaos among the crew working on the railway bridge.

Today, the story remains one of the most dramatic human-wildlife encounters ever recorded. Although there is still debate about the exact number of victims, historians and biologists agree that the lions displayed unusually aggressive behavior. Various explanations have been suggested—injury, lack of prey, environmental stress, or territorial displacement. Whatever the cause, the Tsavo man-eaters remain a central part of Tsavo’s identity.

Visitors interested in this history can explore sites connected to the event, including the area where the attacks occurred, museum pieces, and preserved information about Lieutenant Colonel John Henry Patterson, the engineer who ultimately shot the lions. The story has been retold in books, documentaries, and the Hollywood film The Ghost and the Darkness. Yet the real fascination lies in seeing present-day Tsavo lions thriving in the same landscape where this remarkable chapter unfolded.

Understanding the Behavior of Tsavo Lions Today

Although the man-eaters of Tsavo created a global legend, it’s important to understand that modern Tsavo lions behave like typical African lions. They hunt primarily zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and occasionally weaker or older elephants. Their lack of mane is simply an adaptation, not a sign of aggression, and visitors should not expect to encounter the same behavior that made the Man-Eaters famous over a century ago.

Current research in National Park Tsavo shows that lion populations within the park are healthy and stable. Conservationists closely monitor their movements, hunting patterns, and pride structures to ensure long-term protection. Ecotourism continues to play an important role in funding this research, making every safari visitor part of Tsavo’s conservation story.

Tsavo and Its Wildlife Beyond Lions

While the lions attract a huge amount of attention, a full Tsavo safari showcases the park’s incredible diversity. Tsavo is home to the “Red Elephants,” named for the deep rusty color they get from the volcanic soil. The park also supports leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, buffaloes, giraffes, rhinos, and an extensive variety of birds.

Even the lesser-known species, such as Tsavo rodents, play an important role in the park’s ecosystem. Many of these small mammals are found only in arid zones and form a critical part of the food chain that supports predators. For keen naturalists, Tsavo offers opportunities to observe rare and endemic species that often go unnoticed in more tourist-heavy safari regions.

Why Tsavo Is One of Kenya’s Top Safari Destinations

As one of the largest protected wildlife sanctuaries in the world, Tsavo offers a more rugged and authentic safari experience compared to other parks. Its vast landscapes allow animals to roam with minimal human interference, making every sighting feel private and organic. Whether you are tracking the lions of Tsavo, learning about the famous Tsavo man-eaters, or simply enjoying the sweeping savannahs and ancient baobabs, this national park represents the true spirit of Kenya’s wilderness.

Visitors can explore both Tsavo East and Tsavo West, each offering a distinct experience. Tsavo East is known for open plains and dramatic red-soil scenery, while Tsavo West offers lush springs, volcanic hills, and the famous Mzima Springs where hippos and crocodiles can be viewed underwater. Together, the parks form a safari destination ideal for wildlife photography, family safaris, luxury holidays, and adventure travelers seeking the untamed side of Kenya.

Connecting the Story to Your Safari

When you embark on a Tsavo safari, you’re not just viewing wildlife—you’re stepping into a living story. The plains you drive across are the same landscapes where the Tsavo man-eaters once roamed, the same terrain that has shaped generations of resilient and powerful Tsavo lions. Every game drive becomes an opportunity to connect history, culture, conservation, and wildlife in one of Africa’s most iconic national parks.

From the dramatic legends of the man eaters of Tsavo to the daily rhythms of present-day lion prides, Tsavo remains a destination that blends myth and reality. Whether your interest lies in history, wildlife photography, adventure travel, or big-cat behavior, Tsavo delivers an experience that stays with you long after the safari ends.