Your Kenya adventure begins with a warm welcome upon arrival at Moi International Airport in Mombasa, where your driver meets you and assists with a smooth transfer to the nearby Mombasa SGR Terminus. You board the Madaraka Express train bound for Voi SGR Station in the Tsavo region, enjoying a scenic 2- to 3-hour journey through the Kenyan countryside with views of rolling plains and distant wildlife. Upon arrival at Voi, a short road transfer of about 30-45 minutes brings you to The Hildana Lodge.
Check in at this luxurious, intimate safari retreat nestled at the foot of the Taita Hills in a private 5,000-acre sanctuary that forms part of the vital Tsavo elephant corridor. After settling into your elegant en-suite cottage—complete with Mediterranean-Swahili style interiors and stunning views—you have time to unwind by the swimming pool or in the shared lounging areas while taking in the serene landscape. In the afternoon, you embark on a shared game drive in an open vehicle through the sanctuary, where you'll likely encounter impressive herds of elephants drawn to the seasonal waterholes (including the one right in front of the lodge), along with possibilities of spotting giraffes, zebras, antelopes, cheetahs, lions, or even the elusive African wild dog. The drive offers a thrilling introduction to the wildlife corridor linking Tsavo East and West, with expert guiding to highlight the area's rich biodiversity. Return in time for sundowners, followed by a delicious dinner under the stars, perhaps with views of nocturnal visitors at the waterhole, setting a magical tone for your safari experience.
Transfers
Train ticket from Mombasa to Voi
Transfer from Voi station to the lodge
Afternoon game drive
Start with an early morning shared game drive, capitalizing on the best wildlife viewing times as the sun rises over the sanctuary. You'll explore different routes across the 5,000-acre private reserve, focusing on the elephant migration paths and water sources that attract large herds and other species like big cats and diverse birdlife, providing excellent photographic opportunities and insights into the ecosystem's conservation role. After returning for a hearty breakfast and some relaxation—perhaps lounging by the pool or enjoying the peaceful surroundings—you head out in the afternoon for the guided tour of the century-old sisal factory and working estate farm. This fascinating included experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the eco-friendly sisal plant is harvested, processed, and utilized, as well as the broader operations of the family-owned estate—the second-largest sisal producer in the world. It supports thousands of local families through sustainable agriculture, including arable projects, a fish farm, and hydroponic initiatives powered by factory wastewater. The tour blends history, industry, and community impact, providing a unique cultural contrast to the wildlife focus. The day concludes with a relaxed evening at the lodge, dinner, and perhaps more wildlife sightings from your vantage point.
Morning game drive
Tour of a working Sisal plantation
Enjoy wildlife encounters with both a morning and afternoon shared game drive in open vehicles. The early drive capitalizes on cooler temperatures and active animals, venturing across the sanctuary to track elephant herds at waterholes, predators like cheetahs or lions, diverse antelopes, giraffes, and rich birdlife in this vital Tsavo corridor. After returning for breakfast and a leisurely midday—perhaps pool time, relaxation in your cottage, or simply enjoying the views—you set out again in the afternoon for another game drive, exploring different areas or following fresh tracks for varied sightings and a chance at something special like a big cat hunt or large mammal gatherings. Optional add-ons (at extra cost) could include guided nature walks in nearby Taita Hills for endemic birds or intimate cultural encounters if desired. Evenings bring sundowners in the bush or by the pool, a memorable dinner, and the magical sight of elephants quenching their thirst at the lodge's waterhole under the African sky.
Morning and afternoon game drives
After a final morning activity and breakfast, you check out and transfer back to Voi SGR Station to catch a return train to Mombasa Terminus. The comfortable rail ride provides more views of the Kenyan terrain. Upon reaching Mombasa, a private transfer of about 1 to 1.5 hours heads south along the coast to Diani Beach, where you arrive at Mwazaro Beach Lodge. This tranquil beachfront retreat features 300 meters of private, pristine beach backed by mangroves, away from busier areas, with sea-facing rooms built from natural materials and a laid-back coastal atmosphere. You check in, unwind on the white sands, take a swim in the warm Indian Ocean, and enjoy dinner as the sun sets.
Train from Voi to Mombasa
Transfer to Diani Beach
Spend the day relaxing at the lodge or book an optional activity or excursion.
Optional Wasini Island Exursion (extra cost)
Enjoy a full day excursion to Wasini Island where you will go snorkelling and likely see dolphins en route.
Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your accommodation place, which can be a hotel, villa, or apartment where you stay within Diani.
Upon arrival in Shimoni, guides handle entry fee payments for Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park while you refresh. You will then board a traditional dhow, a vessel steeped in maritime history, and set sail on the Indian Ocean.
Arrive at Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park to snorkel in crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant corals and fish. There is a high chance to see playful bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. During low tide, a stunning sandbank emerges for relaxation and 360-degree views.
Savor a delectable tropical seafood lunch showcasing the rich flavors of the coast. Please mention any special dietary requirements when booking.
Departure from Shimoni after lunch with a drop-off at your hotel in Diani Beach.
Spend another day relaxing and enjoying the Swahili Coast.
Optional excursion (extra cost) Kaya Kinondo Forest Walk
Experience the Kaya coastal culture walk in the sacred forest. Have a chance to see the endangered species of the flora and fauna. Kaya Kinondo is the only forest open to visitors among the nine tribes along the coast. Ceremonies are centred around the most sacred area of the Kaya, especially the burial site for the elderly, where they believe the spirits dwell.
Spend another day relaxing and enjoying the beach.
Spend another day relaxing and enjoying your time at the beach.
Optional excursion: Whale Shark spotting (extra cost - seasonal)
Enjoy a whale shark excursion. Whale sharks are around Diani from October through March, peaking in January and February.
Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world. They are not predatory, like other sharks. Whale sharks spend most of their time cruising the open ocean, which means much of their lives remain a mystery. It is an amazing experience to interact with these gentle giants. Whale Sharks are spotted near the coast of Diani during the months of February – March. A spotter plane is used to locate them from the air then they send a report to update the speed boat about the location of the whale sharks. The departures are based on minimum numbers in the boat, a private boat hire is also possible. You can Swim with the whale sharks out on the reef and dolphins are also spotted during these adventures.
Itinerary
8am Pick-up from your hotel or villa
Pick-up from your hotel in South coast Kenya, then you will be transferred to the departure point.
Follow the spotter plane
Board the speed boat that will follow the spotter plane to begin your adventure in search of the whale sharks.
Snorkel or Scuba dive with these giants
Choose to snorkel or scuba dive with these gentle giants. Swimming with whale sharks in their own environment is an unforgettable experience.
Duration
The trip lasts for 3-4 hours, you are then dropped off at your hotel.
Spend the day relaxing and enjoying your time at the Swahili Coast
After breakfast, check out and transfer back to Moi International Airport in Mombasa for your onward travels.
