Mombasa Tsavo West Safari Review: 3 Days Exploring Ngulia

So, thinking about a little getaway from Mombasa and dreaming of seeing some seriously unbelievable wildlife? Very many people consider the 3-day Tsavo West safari, especially the one that goes to Ngulia, and that can just be what the doctor ordered. Too it’s almost like trading the beach for the bush, which, in my book, is never a bad thing. Anyway, I took the plunge recently, and that’s my no-holds-barred review of the whole experience, to give you the skinny before you decide whether or not to book it.

Booking and Getting Ready for Your Tsavo Adventure

Okay, first things first. Seemingly there are so many safari companies offering pretty similar packages, picking one can be a bit overwhelming. Arguably what worked for me was reading tons of reviews (yep, just like you’re doing now!), checking what’s included (and, actually, what’s not), and, in a way, going with a company that had very quick, super informative responses when I emailed them my many questions. Just a little tip: make absolutely certain about the park fees situation and what kind of vehicle you’ll be rolling in—a pop-up roof is very, very non-negotiable for top-notch wildlife viewing.

Seemingly when it comes to packing, that is where things can get real. So, remember Tsavo West can get pretty darn hot during the day, but then things get really chilly once the sun dips below the horizon. That means you should think about layering. You are definitely gonna want light, breathable clothes, and like your trusty khaki pants and shirts are safari staples for a reason, believe me. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (the African sun is no joke, naturally), and also a warm jacket or fleece. Next to that, bring a good camera with a zoom lens – phone cameras are often not gonna cut it when you’re trying to capture that leopard lounging up a tree. That, and binoculars, which are truly game-changers. I also suggest carrying a small backpack for water, snacks, and any books or entertainment for downtime. Seriously. This should make the travel enjoyable.

Day 1: From Mombasa to Tsavo West – First Glimpses of the Wild

As I was saying, the first day typically starts very, very early with a pick-up from your hotel in Mombasa. Actually the drive to Tsavo West can be quite long – like your talking around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and any stops. Still, the landscape starts shifting from coastal scenery to rugged bushland. As a matter of fact, that’s super fascinating to watch.

Anyway once you arrive at Tsavo West, the safari more or less is truly on! As a matter of fact, the first game drive tends to be en route to your lodge, and, very, very likely you’ll spot some pretty impressive wildlife right off the bat. Now, when I went, the trip to the lodge was a collection of animals I’ve only seen on the television. Zebras were running on both sides of the car. As a matter of fact, there were even gazelles prancing. Then there was the majestic giraffe which I could barely get a good photograph of. I did though, the same day get a photo of an African Harrier Hawk, because apparently it felt like modelling that day. All I’m saying, this drive set the tone. And that, truly is wonderful, isn’t it?

You will eventually check into Ngulia Safari Lodge, which just kind of hangs on the edge of a cliff, offering panoramic views of the rhino sanctuary below. The view, I’ll say, are to die for and that in itself can really sell the place. So, lunch is typically followed by a bit of downtime before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Usually the afternoon is a great time to spot elephants as they head to watering holes. The magic is truly there when you have a keen eyed driver.

Day 2: Exploring Tsavo West – Mzima Springs and Wildlife Encounters

Clearly day two is commonly a full day of wildlife viewing. As a matter of fact, the itinerary included a trip to Mzima Springs. Right, it’s is literally an oasis where you can actually see hippos and crocodiles from an underwater viewing chamber. I’ll say, seeing hippos chilling beneath the surface is a really surreal experience, and really puts you a world away from whatever stress is waiting for you. Too it’s almost a really welcome break. Afterwards, you grab lunch.

As I was saying, after that, the rest of the day involved going out into the bush, trying to see whatever cool creatures call Tsavo West their home. This is when it could be super handy to have an experienced guide. Very much someone that knows the park inside and out. Then the best bit comes – with a little luck, it can be almost guaranteed that they know where to find lions, cheetahs, and maybe that very elusive leopard, which I failed to spot myself. I tell you, spotting a pride of lions dozing under an acacia tree at sunset. That’s seriously peak safari vibes.

Day 3: Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary and Return to Mombasa

As I was saying, the final day typically starts with an early morning game drive, with some safaris doing this before breakfast. This provides an opportunity to spot animals that are really active before the heat of the day sets in. Then there is always an optional visit to the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary which is usually incorporated. Just a little important thing, Tsavo West plays a truly vital role in rhino conservation efforts, and also seeing these majestic creatures up close is deeply inspiring.

Well, with this day done, then you return to the lodge for breakfast, pack up and check out, and the journey back to Mombasa begins. Of course, that very last game drive on the way out of the park gives you a final chance to spot anything you might have missed. Then it allows you to say farewell to the unbelievable landscape. As a matter of fact, by the time you are getting close to Mombasa, I found that I was reflecting on all the amazing things I was privileged enough to see, very grateful. And pretty tired from the early wake up times, obviously.

Staying at Ngulia Safari Lodge: A Room with a View

Okay, let’s be real, so Ngulia Safari Lodge might be somewhat basic. Then the location really sells it. As a matter of fact, those rooms clinging to the cliff edge provide some truly amazing views overlooking the vast wilderness. Still the rooms have comfy beds and, clearly, mosquito nets which are kind of non negotiable and totally vital.

Too it’s almost like the lodge does offer pretty decent food, typically buffet style, with a range of international and local dishes, in case you were wondering. Well, I actually had a waiter serve me some pasta, which, really, wasn’t so authentic. However, I could hardly complain because there were animals running around the open doors where I could photograph. On top of all of this, the highlight really has to be the floodlit watering hole below the lodge, which attracts all manner of animals at night. Also that meant that, there was dinner with a show every single night.

Is a 3-Day Tsavo West Safari from Mombasa Worth It?

Actually, if you’re thinking “should I do it?”, my simple answer is yes. In a way, it’s an unbelievable chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Mombasa. Actually you get a glimpse of what the real African bush is all about. As I was saying, while three days is just enough to scratch the surface of Tsavo West, this is a highlight tour so it gives you some absolutely unforgettable moments. Okay, just bare in mind the drive can be pretty tiring and that the accommodation might not be super luxurious.

Right, it’s is vital to bring the appropriate stuff and to know what you should bring to make it unforgettable. But hey, the chance to see elephants, lions, rhinos, and loads more wildlife in their place where they belong? Then there are sunsets that you’ve never seen before. That definitely outweighs any minor discomforts. That, or any tiredness from being out for extended periods.

Seemingly all in all, if you crave the magic of the wild and also want to get as close to it, the 3-day Tsavo West safari from Mombasa has something really unbelievable waiting.

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