Overview
Embark on Kenya’s most spectacular journey that seamlessly blends heart-pounding wildlife encounters with blissful coastal relaxation. This expertly crafted 9-day bush to beach safari takes you from the elephant kingdom of Amboseli, through the raw wilderness of Tsavo East, to the pristine white sands of Diani Beach – all connected by an unforgettable scenic train journey.
✓ Mount Kilimanjaro views ✓ Big 5 wildlife encounters ✓ Scenic train experience ✓ Pristine beach paradise ✓ All-inclusive pricing
Why This Bush to Beach Safari is Kenya's Best
- Historic railway journey from wilderness to coast through changing landscapes
- Mount Kilimanjaro sunrise views from Amboseli's observation points
- Exclusive game drives in Kenya's most elephant-rich parks
- Seamless transition from safari vehicles to beach loungers
- Local expertise with guides who've lived these landscapes for generations
Detailed 9-Day Bush to Beach Itinerary
Unlike generic tours, this safari is meticulously designed to maximize both wildlife experiences and beach relaxation. You'll witness Africa's greatest wildlife spectacle in the morning and feel Indian Ocean waves at your feet in the evening - all without exhausting transfers or complicated logistics.
We've perfected this route over decades, timing each experience for optimal wildlife viewing and perfect weather. The result? A safari that captures Kenya's complete essence - from the call of the wild to the whisper of ocean waves.
Accommodation: Premium city hotel | Meals: Dinner included
Morning/Afternoon:
- Meet and greet at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
- Transfer to carefully selected Nairobi accommodation
- Rest and acclimatize to East African time zone
- Optional city tour: Karen Blixen Museum or local markets
Evening:
- Welcome dinner at iconic Carnivore Restaurant
- Safari briefing with your expert guide
- Early rest before adventure begins
Highlights: Arrival orientation, safari preparation, authentic Kenyan dining
Accommodation: Luxury safari camp with Kilimanjaro views | Meals: All meals included
Day 2 Activities:
- Early departure for Amboseli (3.5-hour scenic drive)
- First game drive upon arrival - immediate wildlife encounters
- Lunch with views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Afternoon game drive focusing on Amboseli's famous elephant families
- Sundowner drinks with Africa's highest peak as backdrop
Day 3 Highlights:
- Dawn game drive - capture elephants silhouetted against Kilimanjaro
- Observation Hill climb for panoramic views of the park
- Cultural experience - authentic Maasai village visit
- Photography workshop with professional guide tips
- Evening relaxation at camp with traditional entertainment
Wildlife Encounters: 1,000+ elephants, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, buffalos, 400+ bird species Photography Gold: Elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop at sunrise
Amboseli Advantage: Home to some of Africa's largest elephant herds with unobstructed Mount Kilimanjaro views - a photographer's dream destination
Accommodation: Traditional safari lodge | Meals: All meals included
Day 4 Journey:
- Morning game drive en route to Tsavo East
- Scenic drive through changing landscapes (2.5 hours)
- Arrival lunch at safari lodge
- Afternoon game drive in Kenya's largest national park
- Evening relaxation by the lodge pool
Day 5 Exploration:
- Full day game drives in diverse ecosystems
- Aruba Dam visit - wildlife magnet and photography hotspot
- Mudanda Rock climb for elevated savanna views
- Bush lunch under acacia trees
- Night game drive option for nocturnal species
Wildlife Highlights: Red elephants of Tsavo, massive buffalo herds, lions, leopards, cheetahs Unique Features: Red-dusted elephants, baobab trees, dramatic rock formations
Tsavo Secret: The park's red soil gives elephants their distinctive rusty appearance, creating unique photography opportunities found nowhere else in Africa.
Transportation: SGR railway | Accommodation: Beachfront resort | Meals: All meals
Morning:
Final game drive in Tsavo East
Brunch at safari lodge
Transfer to historic Voi Railway Station
The Railway Journey (4 hours):
Comfortable seating in restored railway cars
Changing landscapes from savanna to coastal forests
Wildlife spotting from large train windows
Refreshments served during the scenic journey
Historical commentary about the colonial railway
Evening:
Arrival at tropical Diani Beach
Sunset welcome with tropical cocktails
Beachfront dinner with Indian Ocean views
Journey Highlights: Railway experience, landscape transformation, comfortable transit, wildlife viewing opportunities
Accommodation: 4-star beachfront resort | Meals: All meals included
Beach Activities & Experiences:
Day 7 - Beach Introduction:
- Morning relaxation on pristine white sand beach
- Snorkeling expedition to coral reefs with tropical fish
- Beachfront lunch with fresh seafood specialties
- Afternoon leisure - swimming, sunbathing, reading
- Sunset dhow cruise on traditional sailing vessel
Day 8 - Adventure Options:
Choose your perfect beach day:
- Water sports: Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing
- Cultural tour: Local fishing village and spice plantation visit
- Nature walk: Colobus monkey sanctuary and coastal forest
- Spa treatments: Traditional massages and wellness therapies
- Deep-sea fishing: Optional full-day excursion (additional cost)
Day 9 - Farewell Paradise, end of our Bush to Beach Safari:
- Final beach morning for last-minute relaxation
- Shopping expedition for local crafts and souvenirs
- Farewell lunch with ocean views
- Transfer to airport for departure or extend your stay
Beach Features:
- Pristine conditions: Powder-white sand, crystal-clear waters
- Marine life: Dolphins, tropical fish, sea turtles
- Activities: Snorkeling, diving, sailing, cultural experiences
- Dining: Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, international cuisine
What's Included in Your Bush to Beach Safari
Complete Safari Package
- 8 nights accommodation from luxury safari camps to beachfront resorts
- All meals throughout the safari (27 meals total)
- Professional English-speaking guide with extensive wildlife knowledge
- All park entry fees and government taxes
- Game drives in custom 4WD vehicles with pop-up roofs and charging ports
- Historic train journey from Voi to Diani Beach
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- Bottled water during all activities and transfers
- Cultural experiences including Maasai village visits
Excluded from Package
- International flights to/from Kenya
- Travel and medical insurance (highly recommended)
- Optional activities at Diani Beach (diving, deep-sea fishing)
- Alcoholic beverages (available for purchase at all locations)
- Personal shopping and souvenirs
- Gratuities for guides and staff
- Kenya visa fees (if required for your nationality)
Frequently Asked Questions
Children 8 years and older will love this adventure. We provide family-friendly accommodations and age-appropriate activities. The beach extension is perfect for younger travelers
Elephants are abundant year-round in both Amboseli and Tsavo. Dry season offers easier viewing as they gather at water sources, while green season provides dramatic photography with lush backgrounds.
Absolutely! Diani Beach offers excellent accommodations and activities. We can arrange extended stays, additional excursions, or alternative coastal destinations.
Our expert guides have a 95%+ success rate for lions, elephants, and buffalo. Leopards are more elusive (60% success rate), while rhinos are rare but possible in Tsavo East.
Kenyan Shillings (KES) for small purchases, US Dollars widely accepted. Credit cards accepted at most locations. We advise carrying small bills for tips and local shopping.
Good connectivity in Nairobi and Diani Beach. Safari camps have limited but functional Wi-Fi. This disconnect is part of the authentic bush experience!
Tipping is customary and appreciated. We provide detailed guidelines for appropriate amounts for guides, camp staff, and service providers.