3 Days Tsavo East Safari 2026/2027/2028 from Malindi โ Kenyaโs Coast to Wildlife Adventure
Discover Kenyaโs remarkable wildlife in just three days.
This 3 Days Tsavo East Safari from Malindi (2026โ2028) departs from Kenyaโs beautiful coast and takes you deep into the semi-arid wilds of Tsavo East National Park โ one of Kenyaโs largest and most iconic game-reserves, known for herds of dust-red elephants and classic African savannah scenery. Starting with pickup from Malindi or the nearby coastal resort area, youโll transfer into the park via the Sala or Voi gates, embark on two full days of expert-guided game drives (including dawn and golden-hour sessions), stay in a luxury or comfortable lodge within or adjacent to Tsavo East, and return refreshed to the coast on day three. Unique to this safari: a seamless coast-to-wilderness logistic, fewer crowds than more typical routes, and opportunities to witness lesser-seen features like the Galana River game zone, Mudanda Rock lookout and abundant birdlife. Whether youโre a photography-enthusiast, family traveller, or time-conscious nature seeker, this compact safari combines coast, conservation and comfort. Book early for 2026-2028 departures with Top Cream Safaris.
Itinerary โ Day by Day
Day 1 โ Malindi (Coast) to Tsavo East & Sunset Game Drive
Depart early from Malindi (or your coastal resort) and head inland toward Tsavo East, passing through Kenyaโs changing landscape from lush coastline to open plains. Upon entering via Sala or Voi gate youโll check in at your lodge, enjoy lunch and a brief rest before heading out on a late-afternoon game drive. Expect to spot dust-red elephants wallowing in the Galana River, graceful giraffes against the wide horizon, and large herds of buffalo and antelope drawn to watering holes. As the light softens, youโll capture silhouettes of wildlife amid the red-soiled terrain โ a dramatic photographic moment. Retreat to your lodge for dinner under a starlit African sky and overnight with the sounds of the bush.
Day 2 โ Full Day Game Drives & Red-Dust Safari Magic
Today is dedicated to full-day exploration of Tsavo Eastโs rich wildlife habitats. After an early morning drive when predators and elephants are most active, youโll spend much of the day traversing open plains, riverine corridors and classic savannah. Highlights include the vast elephant herds, maneless lions (a Tsavo speciality), and landmark features such as Mudanda Rock and the Yatta Plateau โ the longest lava flow in the world. Picnic lunch in the bush gives you time to soak in the environment and enjoy birding opportunities (over 500 bird species recorded). Afternoon drives focus on golden-hour light, when the red-dust terrain glows and wildlife silhouettes come alive. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 3 โ Early Drive & Return to Malindi via Coastal Drop-Off
On your final morning, rise early for a dawn game drive โ the perfect opportunity for lingering photographs of elephants crossing the Galana River or hippos in the morning mist. After breakfast return toward Malindi, reflecting on your safari highlights as you transition from wilderness back to the coast. Arrive mid-afternoon at your hotel or airport drop-off, marking the end of an unforgettable 3-day wildlife adventure with Top Cream Safaris.
Price Comparison Table
| Package Tier | Length | Price (USD) per person* | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Range Lodge | 3 Days | From USD 1,150 | Shared 4ร4 vehicle, full board |
| Luxury Lodge / Tent | 3 Days | From USD 1,650 | Premium lodge, private vehicle |
| Private Custom Safari | 3 Days | On request | Tailored itinerary, expedition-style |
*Indicative pricing for 2026โ2028 seasons. Contact Top Cream Safaris for exact quote, lodge supplements & availability.
Key Aspects of This Tour
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Convenient departure from Malindi: Ideal for travellers staying on Kenyaโs coast.
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Focused short safari: Only three days but maximised game-drive time.
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Signature wildlife experiences: Dust-red elephants, large open plains, rare lion types. Kenya Wildlife Service+2SafariBookings.com+2
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Luxury or comfort options: Choose mid-range or premium lodges to suit your budget.
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Expert local guides: Drive by seasoned safari guides who know the park intimately.
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Photographer friendly: Dawn, golden-hour drives, and iconic backdrops like Mudanda Rock.
Discover more
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Tsavo East National Park Safari Overview
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Learn more about the parkโs wildlife on the Kenya Wildlife Service site: Tsavo East National Park Kenya Wildlife Service
Included in the 3 Days Tsavo East Safari Package
Your safari from Malindi to Tsavo East National Park includes everything needed for a seamless and unforgettable adventure:
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Pick-up and drop-off from Malindi hotels or airport
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Transport in a private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
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Professional English-speaking driver-guide with extensive local experience
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All park entry fees and government taxes
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Unlimited game drives in Tsavo East National Park
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Full-board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in a mid-range or luxury safari lodge
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Bottled mineral water during game drives
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Services of Top Cream Safarisโ support team throughout the trip
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Emergency evacuation cover (AMREF Flying Doctors)
Excluded from the Package
The following items are not included in the tour price but can be arranged upon request:
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International or domestic flights
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Visa fees and travel insurance
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Soft and alcoholic beverages at lodges
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Personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, souvenirs)
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Tips and gratuities to driver-guides and lodge staff
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Optional activities such as balloon safaris or cultural village visits
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Extra nights in Malindi before or after the safari (available at an additional cost)
Why Choose Top Cream Safaris
At Top Cream Safaris, every journey is curated for comfort, safety, and authentic experiences. Our guides are locals who know Tsavo Eastโs hidden gems, ensuring you enjoy the best wildlife sightings, luxurious stays, and flexible itineraries tailored to your pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. From Malindi, how long is the transfer to Tsavo East?
A: It takes approximately 3-4 hours by road to the park gate plus lodge check-in time, allowing for afternoon game drives on day 1.
Q2. What wildlife is best seen on a 3-day Tsavo East safari?
A: Expect large elephant herds, buffalo, antelope, maneless lions, crocodiles in the Galana River and a rich birdlife (500+ species recorded).ย
Q3. When is the best time for this safari from Malindi?
A: Dry season months (June-October, January-February) are best for wildlife visibility and comfortable driving roads.
Ready to explore Kenyaโs wild coast-to-bush safari?
Book your 3 Days Tsavo East Safari (2026-2028) with Top Cream Safaris today โ limited seats available for premium lodges and prime departure dates.
๐ Enquire Now
Call us/whatsapp +254723952785
Past Travelersโ Feedbackย
1. โIncredible Safari from the Coast โ Worth Every Minute!โ โ โ โ โ โ
โWe booked the 3-day Tsavo East safari from our hotel in Malindi, and everything was seamless. The transfer, the guide (Peter), and the lodge exceeded our expectations. Seeing elephants bathing in the Galana River was pure magic. Highly recommend Top Cream Safaris for anyone staying on the coast!โ
โ Samantha K., UK โ June 2024
2. โAmazing Game Drives and Great Valueโ โ โ โ โ โ
โThe Tsavo East trip was perfectly organized. Our driver-guide had deep knowledge of animal behaviour, and we spotted lions, buffalo, and hundreds of elephants. The lodge was mid-range but clean and comfortable. Iโd rate it 4.5 stars overall โ great value for money.โ
โ Rahul M., India โ February 2025
3. โFantastic Short Safari โ Perfect Add-On to a Beach Holidayโ โ โ โ โ โ
โWe only had a few days after relaxing in Malindi, and this 3-day safari was exactly what we wanted. The red-dust landscapes, sunrise drives, and friendly service made it unforgettable. Loved the personal touch and attention to detail.โ
โ Maria & Luis G., Spain โ August 2024
4. โProfessional Guides and Superb Wildlife Sightingsโ โ โ โ โ โ
โTop Cream Safaris delivered an incredible experience. Our guide was professional and patient, ensuring we saw elephants, giraffes, and even a cheetah hunt! Meals were tasty, and the staff genuinely cared about guest comfort. Weโll definitely book again.โ
โ Jonathan W., USA โ December 2023
5. โShort but Spectacular!โ โ โ โ โ โ
โOnly three days but packed with wildlife and breathtaking views. The park is huge, and the red elephants are truly special. Would have loved an extra night, but itโs an excellent safari from Malindi for travelers short on time.โ
โ Leila T., France โ March 2025

