Diani Beach in 1 Day for Friends - Tsavo East National Park - full-day game drive
In Collaboration with Expedition Happy Hour. Updated on February 22, 2026.
Full-day guided safari from the Kenyan coast to Tsavo East National Park to search for big game, observe natural predator–prey behaviour, and take in the park’s dry, scenic landscapes and the Yatta Plateau on the horizon. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off along the coast; park entrance fee and lunch are not included and must be arranged in advance with the guide.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Expedition Happy Hour, inspired by the tour Day Trip - Tsavo East National Park ( Man Eater Lions of Tsavo & Other Big Five). Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Tsavo East National Park - full-day game drive
- Search for Big Five and the historic 'Man Eater' lions of Tsavo
- Views of the Yatta Plateau and river confluence landscapes
- Customized safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup from coastal hotels/meeting point and transfer inland to Tsavo East National Park.
Hotel pickup and transfer to Tsavo East
Pickup from your hotel or agreed meeting point on the coast (Diani/Mombasa/Nyali/Watamu/Malindi area). Drive inland toward Tsavo East National Park — travel time roughly two hours from Diani depending on exact pickup location and traffic. Vehicle is a customized safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready at your hotel 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time; the driver will proceed on the agreed route and cannot wait indefinitely.
- Carry a government-issued ID or passport for checkpoint checks when entering the park.
- Wear layered, neutral-coloured clothing for the early-morning transfer; mornings can be cool but the day warms up quickly.
Day 1
Morning and afternoon game drives inside Tsavo East; stop for lunch (arranged in advance with guide).
Full-day game drive in Tsavo East National Park (morning + afternoon)
Enter Tsavo East for an extended game drive through semi-arid plains, riverine corridors and acacia woodlands. Expect morning and afternoon viewing windows to maximize wildlife activity — look for elephants, buffalo, rhino sign, giraffes, zebras, antelopes and predators including the historic Man Eater lions territory. Lunch is not included; discuss options with your guide in advance so a suitable stop or packed lunch is provided.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens; keep noise low and follow the guide’s instructions when animals are nearby.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat and refillable water — shade is limited in many viewing areas; vehicle will carry water but bring your personal bottle.
- Park entrance fee is not included and must be paid separately (the operator will advise the current method); confirm lunch preference with the guide before the trip.
Day 1
Free drop-off at hotels and residences in Mombasa or Diani (sequence depends on group routing).
Drop-off: Mombasa / Diani (coastal hotels)
After exiting the park, return transfer to coastal hotels. The driver will follow a drop-off order that depends on passenger hotel locations; estimated timing shown is an approximate window — your guide will confirm the exact return time for your hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your exact hotel name and room number with the guide at pickup so the driver can plan the drop-off order efficiently.
- Expect the drop-off window to be approximate—traffic and wildlife viewing delays can extend return time.
- Keep personal items with you in the vehicle; if you left belongings at the hotel pickup point, check they’re loaded before departure from the coast.
Day 1
Optional drop-off for guests based in Malindi (timing subject to routing and group composition).
Drop-off: Malindi (coastal hotels/residences)
If your hotel is in Malindi, the vehicle will return you to an agreed drop-off point in Malindi after the safari. Exact timing depends on group routing and is confirmed on the day.
Tips from local experts:
- If you require drop-off in Malindi, advise the operator in advance so the guide can plan the route and confirm arrival window.
- Longer road transfers to Malindi are possible after the park — carry any medications or items you will need before returning to your hotel.
- If multiple drop-off towns are required, the vehicle will follow the most efficient route; be prepared for an extended return window compared with single-town drop-offs.
Day 1
Optional drop-off for guests based in Watamu (timing subject to routing and group composition).
Drop-off: Watamu (coastal hotels/residences)
Return to Watamu hotels/residences for drop-off. The sequence and timing are planned by the driver according to the day’s route and group needs.
Tips from local experts:
- Tell the guide your Watamu hotel name at pickup to ensure an efficient drop-off sequence.
- If you plan to stop for a meal after the safari in Watamu, tell your guide in the morning so they can suggest timing and options.
- Expect the stated time window to be approximate; late wildlife sightings or road conditions can affect exact arrival.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 1 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor |