Kenya 6-Day Safari Itinerary: Amboseli, Tsavo West and the Coast

Many first itineraries go west to the Masai Mara. This one goes south, where the landscape is drier, the elephants are famous and the skyline is dominated, on clear mornings, by Kilimanjaro across the border. It suits travellers who want a safari-and-sea trip without too many internal flights.

The plan balances two parks with a coastal finish. Compare it with the Mara-based 5-day itinerary and the longer 7-day plan.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Day-by-Day Outline

Amboseli on Days 1 and 2

Amboseli is flat, open and dusty, with swamps fed by water from Kilimanjaro that draw elephants, buffalo, hippos and birds. The mountain is often hidden by cloud by mid-morning, so rise early for clear views. Elephants here are well studied and often relaxed around vehicles, which makes for excellent photography.

Spend your two days at different times: one at dawn on the plains and one in the swamps and woodland in the afternoon. See the Amboseli wildlife guide, Amboseli itineraries and Nairobi to Amboseli.

Tsavo West on Days 3 and 4

Tsavo West is wilder and more varied than Amboseli, with lava flows, rocky hills, springs and thick bush. Wildlife is less concentrated, so viewing rewards patience, and a guide who knows the park pays off. Elephants, buffalo, giraffe and plains game are regular sightings, while predators require luck and time.

Choose accommodation inside or near the park and ask about walking options in designated areas. Read Tsavo West itineraries and the Tsavo West wildlife guide for ideas.

The Coast on Days 5 and 6

The drive to the coast is long, so start early and keep lunch simple. Diani offers a white-sand beach, warm water and a relaxed atmosphere, and it is a welcome contrast to the dusty parks. A coastal finish also helps with jet lag and with sorting luggage before flying home.

Options include snorkelling trips, a dhow outing or simply resting. See the Diani Beach guide, Mombasa to Diani and getting around the Kenya coast.

Pacing and Variations

• Fly from Nairobi to Amboseli or from Tsavo to the coast if available, to shorten the longest transfers; check Kenya domestic flights.
• Drop Tsavo West and spend three nights in Amboseli for a slower pace.
• Swap Tsavo West for Tsavo East, which is flatter and more open, if you prefer drives to hills.
• Replace the beach with Mombasa old town and a heritage day; see the Mombasa guide.
• Keep the first and last days light, because Nairobi traffic can be unpredictable.

Best Season

The dry months, roughly June to October and January to February, are best for firm roads and animals concentrating near water. The long rains, around March to May, bring green scenery and fewer visitors, though some tracks may become difficult and the coast is humid. Short rains around November vary. Check the Amboseli best-time guide and Kenya beach best time.

Who This Suits

This itinerary is good for photographers who love elephants, couples wanting a safari and a beach, and families who do not want a long flight-heavy trip. It is less suited to those who want the big-cat intensity of the Mara; for that see Mara itineraries. Honeymooners can read the coast honeymoon guide for how to extend the beach stay.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team