Red Earth Rails Safari

Overview

A perfect short luxury safari combining Kenya's dramatic red-dust landscapes with iconic Mount Kilimanjaro views. Start in vast Tsavo East — home to the famous “red elephants” — continue to volcanic Tsavo West with its crystal-clear Mzima Springs and underground hippo viewing, then finish in Amboseli National Park, renowned for massive elephant herds photographed against Africa's highest mountain. Travel in a private 4x4 with an expert guide, stay in exclusive tented camps, enjoy sundowners and optional hot-air balloon flights. Ideal for travellers wanting big game, stunning scenery and comfort without long drives — easily accessed from Diani Beach via the modern SGR train.

Trip Highlights

• Tsavo East's famous red-dust elephants
• Underwater hippo and crocodile viewing at Mzima Springs
• Shetani Lava Flow and the volcanic Tsavo West landscape
• Amboseli's massive elephant herds beneath Kilimanjaro
• Sundowners over the Chyulu Hills
• SGR Madaraka Express from Emali back to the coast

Day By Day

1. 01
   Day 1

   Diani Beach – Tsavo East National Park

   You will be picked up from your Diani Beach hotel in the morning and transferred by road to Tsavo East National Park, approximately 4–5 hours. Enter Tsavo East, famous for its red-dust elephants, large buffalo herds and vast open plains. Enjoy an afternoon game drive as you head to your lodge overlooking Aruba Dam, arriving in time for sunset. Dinner and overnight at Ashnil Aruba Lodge (Safari Tent). (L, D)

2. 02
   Day 2

   Tsavo East – Tsavo West National Park

   Start the day with an early morning game drive in Tsavo East to catch the wildlife at its most active. Return briefly to the lodge for breakfast, then depart for Tsavo West, approximately 2–3 hours, with game viewing en route. After checking in, head out for an afternoon game drive including the spectacular Mzima Springs, where you can view hippos and crocodiles underwater from an observation tank. End the day with sundowner drinks overlooking the volcanic landscape. Dinner and overnight at Severin Safari Camp (Luxury Tent). (B, L, D)

3. 03
   Day 3

   Tsavo West – Amboseli National Park

   After breakfast, enjoy a final short game drive in Tsavo West including Shetani Lava Flow. Depart for Amboseli via the scenic Chyulu Hills route, approximately 4–5 hours. Enter Amboseli in the early afternoon for your first game drive with the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, weather permitting. Large elephant herds, lions and abundant birdlife are common sightings. An optional late-afternoon visit to a local Maasai village can be arranged. Dinner and overnight at Kibo Safari Camp (Deluxe Tent). (B, L, D)

4. 04
   Day 4

   Full day in Amboseli National Park

   Spend a full day exploring Amboseli with morning and afternoon game drives. The park is renowned for its massive elephant herds and some of the best views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa. Drives take you across swamps, open plains and acacia woodland, offering excellent photographic opportunities. Picnic lunch in the park. An optional early morning hot-air balloon safari can be arranged at additional cost. Dinner and overnight at Kibo Safari Camp (Deluxe Tent). (B, L, D)

5. 05
   Day 5

   Amboseli – Emali Station – Diani Beach

   Enjoy an optional early morning game drive followed by breakfast at the camp. Check out and transfer to Emali Railway Station, approximately 1.5–2 hours. Board the SGR Madaraka Express departing at 09:31 and arriving in Mombasa around 14:00. On arrival you will be met and transferred back to your Diani Beach hotel or the airport for your onward journey. (B, L)