Experiences at Taita Hills
Discover the essence of adventure at Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa, nestled in the vibrant Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. Engage in our reforestation initiative, enjoy guided wildlife safaris, and connect with local culture, all while relishing the comfort and serenity of our resort. Experience the perfect blend of conservation, culture, and luxury in the heart of Tsavo.
Experiences
Reforestation
The program aims at habitat restoration which will eventually improve ecological health of the sanctuary after the original vegetation had been degraded by bush fires, heavy grazing and browsing by mega herbivores, droughts due to climate change etc. The reforestation project was first established in 2010 as a pilot project which covers 308 trees planted per Acre. So far more than 10,000 indigenous trees have been planted and are thriving. Guests visiting Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary are encouraged to be part of wildlife wellbeing & rehabilitation activities, like planting of a tree during their stay.
Experiences
Day out with ranger
At the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, our team of fifteen expert rangers brings the wilderness to life through their vast knowledge in birding, bushcraft, and indigenous practices, alongside an intimate understanding of the local flora and fauna. These guardians of the sanctuary not only guide guests through immersive tours but also share their deep-rooted connection with the land, offering insights into the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts. Their stories and expertise transform each encounter into a profound journey of discovery, underlining the sanctuary’s commitment to preserving the natural world for future generations. Through their dedication, guests leave with a renewed sense of responsibility towards nature and an enriched appreciation of Earth’s diverse inhabitants.
Experiences
Swimming
At the heart of the Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa lies a captivating oasis: a stunning, free-form swimming pool that mirrors the serenity and beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Open from dawn till dusk, this aquatic haven invites guests to bask in the tranquil waters under the vast African sky, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and refreshment amidst the natural splendor of the Taita Hills. Whether you’re seeking a serene swim to start your day, a midday escape from the sun, or a peaceful dip as the evening sets in, our pool awaits to enhance your safari experience with its refreshing embrace.
Experiences
Wildlife Talks
Within the enchanting ambiance of Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa, as twilight descends and the stars begin to twinkle in the vast African sky, guests are invited to immerse themselves in a captivating wildlife presentation. This unique experience, delivered by a highly qualified ecologist or ranger, unfolds upon request, offering a rare glimpse into the intricate web of life that thrives in the sanctuary. Through vivid storytelling and expert insights, these evening sessions not only enlighten but also deepen the connection between our guests and the natural world. It’s an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of conservation efforts, wildlife behavior, and the ecosystem’s delicate balance, making each presentation a memorable part of the safari experience.
Experiences
WWI Excursions
At the Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa, our rangers bring history to life through their profound knowledge of the World War One activities that swept across Taita-Taveta County over a century ago. Their expertise is not merely academic; it is enriched by specialized training and personal visits to the historic sites scattered throughout the Taita locality. This deep, immersive understanding allows them to offer guests more than just tours; they provide a comprehensive interpretation of the events that unfolded during this pivotal time in history. Within the walls of the WW1 Museum at our resort, our rangers serve as your guides to the past, offering insights into the strategic significance of the area, sharing stories of valor and sacrifice, and connecting you with the echoes of history that resonate through the landscape of Taita Hills. This unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth ensures that your stay with us is not only a journey through the wonders of wildlife but also a profound exploration of our shared heritage.
Experiences
Community and Cultural Tourism
In 2019, Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa embarked on a meaningful partnership with a local cultural group, marking the beginning of an enriching journey into the heart of Taita culture. This collaboration has been a beacon of cultural exploration, unearthing a treasure trove of traditional practices, from the culinary arts to the intricate craft of basketry. Supported by the county government, this partnership has also paved the way for the development of trails that lead to the ancient caves of Taita, each a silent guardian to the skulls of the region’s venerable leaders. These endeavors not only celebrate the rich heritage of the Taita people but also invite our guests to experience the deep-rooted traditions and sacred sites that define the soul of this land. Through this journey, visitors gain a unique insight into the cultural fabric of Taita, connecting with its history, its people, and the timeless customs that continue to thrive in the shadow of the hills.
Experiences
Bush Meals/Sundowners
Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa boasts four exquisite bush activity venues, each nestled within the sanctuary and equipped with essential amenities for comfort in the wilderness. These unique spots offer unparalleled views that stretch from the undulating Taita hills across the expansive sanctuary to the vast Tsavo plains, and on clear days, the majestic peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro emerges on the horizon, providing a breathtaking backdrop. Designed to enhance the safari experience, these venues offer a versatile setting for a range of activities. Whether it’s a bush breakfast at dawn, a sundowner to celebrate the twilight, or a bush dinner under the starlit African sky, each setting is carefully chosen to cater to the preferences and group sizes of our guests. This customization ensures that every meal is not just a dining experience but an immersion into the beauty and serenity of the natural surroundings, making each moment at Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa unforgettable.
Experiences
Curio Shop
The Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa invites guests to bring a piece of their unforgettable safari experience home with them through the extensive selection of souvenirs available at our gift shop. Conveniently situated in the lobby area of the lodge, this boutique offers a carefully curated collection of memorabilia, ranging from handcrafted items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Taita community to bespoke artisanal crafts that capture the essence of the African wilderness. Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of jewelry, traditional fabrics, or hand-painted artifacts, our gift shop is a treasure trove that promises to have something special for everyone. Each item tells a story, making it the perfect keepsake or gift that continues to resonate with the magic of your safari long after you’ve returned home.
Experiences
Game Viewing
Salt Lick Safari Lodge offers unforgettable early morning and late afternoon game drives, providing perfect opportunities to observe and photograph the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife. The lodge’s waterholes attract animals, allowing guests to view them in their natural habitat up close. Additionally, the lobby and terrace bar afford panoramic views for photography enthusiasts. For a uniquely intimate wildlife experience, an underground tunnel and bunker with ground-level windows offer guests a remarkably close, yet safe, encounter with animals as they drink, making every moment at Salt Lick Safari Lodge an extraordinary and memorable adventure in the heart of the sanctuary.
Experiences
Salt Lick Tunnel/Water Hole
The Salt Lick Safari Lodge’s unique features significantly enhance the guest experience by facilitating up-close observations of mega herbivores. Especially during dry seasons, the strategically placed water hole, replenished by a dedicated wildlife borehole, becomes a vital water source, attracting large groups of elephants, buffaloes, zebras, and antelopes. Occasionally, these gatherings are shadowed by predatory big cats, adding an exhilarating element to the experience. This interaction between prey and predator around the water hole offers guests a rare glimpse into the dynamics of wildlife survival and behavior, making each visit to the lodge a deeply rewarding and unforgettable encounter with nature.
Experiences
Walking Safari
The sanctuary provides a wealth of opportunities to immerse yourself in its rich biodiversity and vibrant culture. Embark on a guided nature walk with one of our qualified rangers, who will highlight the intricate details of the ecosystem as you meander through the bush. This experience allows you to appreciate the often-overlooked smaller wildlife, which plays a crucial role in the ecology of the area. Such walks offer a unique perspective, enriching your understanding of the sanctuary’s diverse flora, fauna, and cultural heritage, and revealing the subtle interconnections that maintain the balance of this extraordinary ecosystem.
Experiences
Traditional Music & Dance
During dinner at our venue, the ambiance is enriched by the captivating melodies of traditional music performed by a talented local trio, creating an authentic backdrop to your dining experience. As the meal concludes, the experience transitions to the lobby, where the rhythm and vibrancy of Taita culture come alive through performances by authentic Taita dancers, accompanied by additional musicians. This engaging spectacle is more than just a performance; guests are warmly encouraged to participate, offering a hands-on opportunity to immerse themselves in the local heritage. Through this blend of music and dance, we invite our guests to not only observe but become part of the living tradition that thrives in the heart of the Taita community.
Experiences
Night Game Drives
Night game drives at Salt Lick Safari Lodge offer a unique window into the nocturnal life of the wilderness, where guests can encounter creatures that remain elusive during the day, such as spotted and striped hyenas, mongooses, jackals, civets, genets, porcupines, and bush babies. Guided by our expertly trained rangers, armed with powerful spotlights, these drives reveal the hidden nocturnal activities of the sanctuary’s inhabitants. This adventure into the night provides an exhilarating chance to witness predators in action, hunting under the cover of darkness. It’s an immersive experience that showcases the untamed beauty and raw survival instincts of wildlife in their natural habitat, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary and often unseen side of the animal kingdom.
Experiences
Circle of Life
Night drives at our lodge provide a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant activity of predators, offering guests an intimate glimpse into the ‘Circle of Life’. This experience is further enhanced by the lodge’s thoughtful design, which includes a lobby and terraced bar boasting expansive views for both enjoying the scenery and capturing photographic memories. Additionally, an innovative underground tunnel and bunker equipped with ground-level windows allows for incredibly close, yet completely safe, encounters with various animals as they come to drink. This seamless integration of night-time adventures and strategic lodge amenities ensures guests can fully immerse themselves in the natural world, experiencing the untamed beauty and raw survival instincts of the wilderness.
