Taita Hills Wildlife Reserve
Taita Hills: A Private Sanctuary in Tsavo
Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is a private reserve set between Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Wildlife moves freely between the parks and the sanctuary, so game viewing is excellent, especially around the waterholes.
The sanctuary is best known for its unusual lodge on stilts, where you can watch elephants drinking directly beneath you.
Things to Do in Taita Hills
Game drives reveal elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes and many antelope species. Night drives are permitted, giving a chance to see nocturnal animals. Guided walks and visits to the surrounding Taita communities add variety.
Getting There
Taita Hills is about two and a half hours from Mombasa, and it is a convenient stop on a Tsavo and Amboseli circuit or a safari-and-beach holiday.
Explore our Kenya safaris or ask us for a tailor-made itinerary.
This biodiversity hotspot supports a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and several antelope species such as the elusive bushbuck and the rare Taita subspecies of the duiker. The reserve is also rich in birdlife, featuring species like the Taita Apalis and the strikingly beautiful White-cheeked Turaco.
Visitors to Taita Hills Wildlife Reserve can partake in various activities that highlight its unique landscape and wildlife. Game drives offer opportunities to explore the reserve’s varied habitats, from forested areas to open savannahs, and to observe its diverse fauna. The reserve’s elevated terrain provides excellent vantage points for panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the neighboring Tsavo National Parks.
Guided walks are another popular option, allowing for a closer look at the reserve’s flora and smaller wildlife, and providing insight into the ecological significance of the region. Additionally, cultural interactions with the local Taita communities can enrich the visit, offering insights into traditional practices and the relationship between the people and their environment. As part of Kenya’s national parks, Taita Hills Wildlife Reserve represents a vital component of the country’s conservation efforts and provides a serene and immersive safari experience.
Where to Stay near Taita Hills
Every Traford safari comes in three styles: Signature (luxury), Classic (mid-range) and Adventurer (budget). These are the options we recommend most often; final choices depend on your dates and availability.
- Classic: Saltlick Safari Lodge, raised on stilts above a waterhole, and Taita Hills Safari Resort.
