Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kenya’s lesser-known safari gems, tucked between Tsavo West National Park and the Tanzanian border. Famous for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the iconic Salt Lick Safari Lodge, Taita Hills offers an intimate and rewarding safari experience away from the crowds.
Whether you’re looking for a quick 2-day trip from the coast or including it in a longer East African safari itinerary, Taita Hills is a destination that combines wildlife, culture, and stunning views.
Home to Salt Lick Lodge – one of Africa’s most photographed safari lodges
Night game drives available – rare in Kenyan parks
Private sanctuary with fewer vehicles – enjoy peaceful sightings
Close to both Tsavo East/West and the coastal towns of Watamu and Diani
Excellent option for first-time or family safaris
Taita Hills is home to a wide variety of animals, including:
Elephants
Lions
Buffaloes
Leopards
Zebras
Waterbucks
Giraffes
Rare birds like the Taita thrush and Taita apalis
The sanctuary features rolling hills, open grasslands, and natural waterholes, attracting large herds of wildlife, especially during dry seasons.
Day and Night Game Drives
Taita is one of the few places in Kenya that permits night safaris, offering a rare chance to spot nocturnal wildlife like hyenas, owls, and civets.
Photography at Salt Lick
Capture stunning shots of elephants and other animals visiting the lodge’s waterholes.
Bird Watching
A haven for birders, with endemic species and over 300 types of birds.
Cultural Visits
Interact with the local Taita people and learn about their traditions and history.
Guided Nature Walks
Some lodges offer walking safaris with rangers for a more immersive experience.
Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge – iconic lodge built on stilts above watering holes
Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa – offers classic lodge experiences with added comfort
Lions Bluff Lodge – located nearby with spectacular views of the surrounding plains
The best time to visit is June to October and January to March, during the dry seasons when wildlife viewing is at its best.
However, since it is a private sanctuary, it’s accessible and rewarding all year round — even during Kenya’s green season.
Taita Hills fits perfectly into the following routes:
3–4 day Coast Safari: Combine it with Tsavo East and Amboseli, ideal from Watamu, Diani, or Mombasa
Longer East African itineraries: As a midpoint between Nairobi, Tsavo, and Tanzania’s northern parks
