"Nature's Canvas of Wildlife Majesty"
Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary Tourism
Situated in Kenya's Taita-Taveta County, the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary spans 28,000 acres and is a privately owned national park. Nestled next to Tsavo West National Park, it forms part of the ancient Eastern Arc Mountain Range, showcasing lush green mountains and expansive grassy plains bustling with wildlife.
Established in 1970 and managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service, the sanctuary has become a well-liked destination for tourists. It's home to over 50 large mammals, including the African bush elephant, and boasts a diverse bird population with more than 390 species. Notably, the sanctuary is famous for two of its unique accommodations - the Salt Lick Safari Lodge and the Taita Hills Resort & Spa.
Entry Fee to Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary:
Citizens / Residents: Adult – KSH 500, Child – KSH 250
Non-Resident: Adult - $35, Child - $20
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Things to do in Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Taita Hills WWI Museum
Situated within the sanctuary, the Taita Hills WWI Museum is a historical gem providing insights into the events of World War I. Open during regular park hours, visitors can explore exhibits for appro (Read More)ximately 1-2 hours, gaining a deeper understanding of the region's wartime history.
2. Mzima Springs
Mzima Springs, a natural oasis within the sanctuary, offers crystal-clear waters and a unique underwater view of hippos and crocodiles. Accessible during park hours, a visit typically lasts 2-3 hours, (Read More) providing a chance to appreciate the beauty and wildlife that thrive in this serene setting.
3. Game Drives
For an adrenaline-filled adventure, game drives across the sanctuary unveil diverse wildlife, including large mammals and predators. Conducted during morning and late afternoon hours, each drive lasts (Read More) around 2-3 hours, delivering an immersive safari experience.
4. Walking Safaris
Explore the sanctuary's natural beauty on foot with walking safaris, providing an intimate encounter with flora and fauna. Available during morning and afternoon hours, these walks typically last arou (Read More)nd 2 hours, offering a slower-paced connection to nature.
5. Bird Watching
Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is a birdwatcher's paradise, hosting over 390 bird species. Best enjoyed during early mornings and late afternoons, birdwatching opportunities abound throughout the day, (Read More) with varying durations based on personal interest.
Must Know Before You Travel to Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
- Timings: The sanctuary is open from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM every day throughout the year.
- Accommodation Rates: Accommodation costs within the lodges don't cover the Park Entry Fee.
- Combo Visit: Most travellers combine their visit to Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary with Tsavo West National Park.
- Self-Drive Option: You can explore the sanctuary at your pace with the convenience of well-maintained internal roads for self-driving.
- Accommodation Costs: Accommodations range from USD 250 to 400 per person per night, depending on your preferences and budget.
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Wildlife in Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is home to over 50 large mammals, including elephants, zebras, cape buffaloes, giraffes, lions, leopards, antelopes, and cheetahs. With over 390 bird species, ranging from residents to migrants, the sanctuary is a birdwatcher's paradise. Rare birds like the Taita apalis, Taita thrush, Taita Falcon, Taita White-eye, and Southern Banded Snake-eagle, along with unique reptiles such as the Taita Hills purple-glossed snake and Taita blade-horned chameleon, make this sanctuary truly special.
Accommodation at Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
- Salt Lick Safari Lodge: Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge offers 96 elevated rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Rooms are elevated on stilts, providing panoramic views.
Price: Starts from $270 per night. - Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa: Taita Hills Safari Resort and Spa has 60 well-appointed standard rooms, some with exclusive views of the watering hole.
Price: Starts from $240 per night.
Best Time to Visit Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
How to Reach Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
How to Reach Overview
Getting to the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is straightforward with various travel options. If you're in Nairobi, a 360-kilometre road trip takes about 6-7 hours, or you can opt for air travel via the Voi Airstrip, just 40 kilometres away. Travellers from Mombasa can cover a similar distance in approximately 5-6 hours. Nairobi, serving as an international airport, adds flexibility.
How to reach Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary by flight
For international travellers, you can use Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as your main entry to the country. The sanctuary is accessible by air through the Voi Airstrip, located approximately 40 kilometres away.
How to reach Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary by road
- From Nairobi: If travelling by road from Nairobi, the journey covers approximately 360 kilometres and takes about 6-7 hours.
- From Mombasa: For those coming from Mombasa, the distance is around 360 kilometres as well, and the drive usually takes about 5-6 hours.
How to reach Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary by bus
Matatus (shared minibuses) and taxis are available for local transportation within the region.
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