Kenya Safari & Beach Relaxation (Mombasa & Watamu)

Upon landing at Moi International Airport, a representative from African Diurnal Safaris will greets you with a big smile: ‘Karibu Kenya – welcome to Kenya!’. He will transfer you straight to Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort, while you take in the first images of the vibrant city of Mombasa. From the old ruins of Fort Jesus to the white sand beaches of the turquoise-blue Indian Ocean, Mombasa is a dream destination. Your Kenya safari and beach relaxation has just started!

Departing Mombasa at around 7:30 AM, you embark on a 4-hour drive inland to the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. The journey takes you through small villages and ever-changing landscapes, offering occasional glimpses of wildlife as you travel.

The Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary and Lumo Conservancy are two smaller reserves nestled between the expansive Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. These areas provide unique opportunities for night game drives, and their close proximity makes it convenient to explore both. Visitors on Kenya safari can encounter a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and more than 300 bird species.

The journey from Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary to the entrance of Tsavo West National Park takes about 45 minutes, with the Maktau gates, whether northern or southern, being the most commonly used entry points. Once inside, it’s another drive of 1 to 2 hours to reach at Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, with the duration varying based on animal sightings and stops along the way. Upon arrival and check-in, lunch is served, followed by an afternoon game drive.

Tsavo West National Park is a park that shows a diverse and remarkable nature with. Being one of the Kenya’s largest national parks, its usual to spot four of the Big Five roaming freely here. Besides, you fairly easily spot regulars like giraffes, zebras, antelopes, gerenuks and many different species of birds, all between the green hills, acacia forests, savannah, natural springs and huge lava rocks from nearby volcanos.

The drive from National Park to Tsavo East National Park unfolds across rugged volcanic hills and lava flows before easing into the wide, open savanna. It’s a 4‑hour journey that steadily transitions from dramatic highlands to the arid plains, with wildlife and acacia trees marking the way.

Spanning an expansive 13,000 square kilometers, Tsavo East National Park is vast, awe-inspiring, and steeped in history, having been established in 1948. Explore the sweeping savannah of the Yatta Plateau, home to impressive herds of red elephants, some of the last remaining super tuskers, and the unique maneless lions.

Depart with a 4-hours drive from the rust–colored wilderness of Tsavo East National Park and the turquoise serenity of Watamu‘s coastline. The journey takes you briefly through Malindi before descending into this tranquil, sheltered bay, seamlessly transitioning from elephant-dotted savannahs to sea turtle-filled waters—all within a single, unforgettable drive.

Watamu, a charming fishing village situated 100 kilometers north of Mombasa, is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal–clear ocean waters. Along the coastline, you’ll encounter forested sandy coves and expansive beaches, while farther inland lies a tranquil retreat of secluded resorts. Nearby, Mida Creek, bordered by mangrove forests, adds to the area‘s natural allure. Visitors can enjoy activities like windsurfing and water skiing or delve into the wonders of the Watamu Marine National Park. Whether through boat excursions or snorkeling adventures, you can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside sea turtles, marvel at schools of colorful fish, spot playful dolphins, and, with some luck, even encounter majestic whale sharks.

This is your last day! Unfortunately, our driver will have to take you to Mombasa to catch your flight home from Moi International Airport. Sad to leave…? Then don’t worry! We can still add a few more days on those beautiful beaches or even add a few exciting safari days to your holiday!