Mountain gorillas resting among dense forest vegetation

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary Travel Guide

Explore Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary through watching elephants drink from the underground tunnels at Salt Lick Safari Lodge, taking a night game drive to spot elusive nocturnal species like bushbabies and owls, viewing the vast Tsavo plains from the elevated Taita Hills.
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Why visit

The sanctuary offers a distinct character defined by its status as a private conservancy, allowing for exclusive experiences like night game drives and guided bush walks that are not permitted in national parks. Its primary appeal lies in the concentration of wildlife around permanent water sources, ensuring reliable sightings even during drier months.

Travellers value the sanctuary for its accessibility and the well-connected blend of comfort and nature. The scenery is striking, with golden plains framed by ancient hills, providing a stunning setting for evening sundowners. The relatively small size of the sanctuary means less time spent driving between sightings, which is a major benefit for families with children.

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Destination guide

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is a private conservancy located in southeast Kenya, forming a vital corridor between Tsavo West and Tsavo East National Parks. It is best known for its unique landscape of grassy plains and riverine forests, dominated by the dramatic backdrop of the Taita Hills. The sanctuary provides a sanctuary for a high density of elephants and diverse birdlife.

The atmosphere is peaceful and intimate. The terrain consists of open savannahs punctuated by rocky outcrops and acacia woodlands, offering clear sightlines for wildlife viewing. The elevation provides a slightly cooler climate compared to the surrounding lowlands, making the air feel crisp and refreshing.

This destination is ideal for families, photographers, and those seeking a quieter safari experience away from the busier national parks. It is particularly popular with travellers looking for a convenient stopover while journeying between Nairobi and the coast.

Key experiences

  1. Night Game Drives

    Explore the sanctuary after dark to see a different world of wildlife, including leopards and smaller nocturnal cats.

  2. Underground Tunnel Viewing

    Observe wildlife from a unique perspective at the waterhole via a secure underground tunnel.

  3. Guided Nature Walks

    Walk through the savannah with an expert ranger to learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem like tracks and plants.

  4. Bush Sundowners

    End your afternoon drive with drinks and snacks at a scenic viewpoint as the sun sets over the hills.

  5. Birding Excursions

    Discover the rich avian life including the rare Taita Thrush and various raptors with a specialized guide.

  6. Visit to Lumo Community Wildlife Sanctuary

    Explore the neighbouring community-run sanctuary which shares an unfenced border with Taita Hills.

Destination questions

Two nights are usually enough to experience the main highlights and enjoy several game drives.

Walking is only permitted when accompanied by a professional armed ranger on a designated nature walk.

You can see four of the Big Five, as rhinos are not present in this specific sanctuary.

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