Amboseli, Tsavo & Diani Beach
A southern safari route combined with a Madaraka Express train ride to the coast, connecting savannah and beach without domestic flights.
From elephant herds under snow-capped mountains to the red elephants and volcanic landscapes of Tsavo, then boarding the Madaraka Express (SGR) at Voi to the coast—this route saves you a flight connection compared to a Mara-to-coast itinerary. With four nights on safari and three nights at the beach, it perfectly balances wildlife viewing and relaxation. Skipping the big cats and migration of the Mara ensures a smooth, easy-paced journey, making it ideal for families with children and those seeking a safari-and-beach vacation.
Sea conditions are best from December to March; some beaches may have seaweed during the winter months.
Day by day
Day 1 · Nairobi South to Amboseli
Drive via the Namanga Road or Emali, taking four to five hours. Arrive in the afternoon for an evening game drive.
Stay: Inside Amboseli Park and Around the Main Gate
Day 2 · Amboseli: Elephants and Mt. Kilimanjaro
Amboseli（Amboseli National Park、Observation Hill）
Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives, returning to your lodge to rest at midday. Driving distances within the park are relatively short.
Stay: Inside Amboseli Park and Around the Main Gate
Day 3 · To Tsavo West: Springs and Lava Flows
Tsavo National Parks（Tsavo West National Park、Shetani Lava Flow、Mzima Springs）
Drive via Kimana to Tsavo West, taking about three to four hours. Visit Mzima Springs and the Shetani Lava Flow in the afternoon.
There are no restaurants at Mzima Springs, so bring a packed lunch. Confirm if the underwater viewing chamber is open.
Stay: Tsavo West Lodges
Day 4 · Cross from Tsavo West to Tsavo East
Tsavo National Parks（Roaring Rocks、Tsavo East National Park、Mudanda Rock）
Enter Tsavo East via Manyani Gate, taking about two hours, with a game drive en route to Voi.
Stay: Voi (Tsavo East Gateway)
Day 5 · Morning Game Drive, Train to the Coast
Tsavo National Parks（Kanderi Swamp） → Diani Beach
Take the midday intercity train from Voi to Mombasa (approx. two hours), then drive about 1.5 hours to Diani Beach.
Train tickets should be booked in advance via the official system. Double-check the current timetable.
Stay: Central Diani Beach
Day 6 · Dhow Cruise to Kisite Marine Park
Diani Beach（Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park、Wasini Island）
Drive about 1.5 hours to Shimoni, board a traditional dhow for a cruise, and return to Diani in the evening.
Sea conditions are affected by monsoons; confirm if the boat can sail before booking.
Stay: Central Diani Beach
Day 7 · Leisure Day at Diani Beach
Diani Beach（Colobus Conservation、Diani Beach、Ali Barbour's Cave Restaurant）
Walk or take a tuk-tuk around the beach area. No long-distance travel; enjoy a completely free day.
Reservations are required in advance for dinner at the cave restaurant.
Stay: Central Diani Beach
Day 8 · Mombasa Old Town and Departure
Mombasa（Fort Jesus、Mombasa Old Town）
Drive to Mombasa Island via the Likoni Ferry (approx. 1.5 hours), then head to the airport in the afternoon.
The Likoni Ferry can have long queues during peak hours; allow plenty of extra time to reach the airport.