When it comes to experiencing a truly unique and unforgettable safari in Kenya, few places compare to Salt Lick Safari Lodge. Located in the heart of the Taita Hills, overlooking the vast Tsavo West National Park, Salt Lick is not just a place to stay—it’s a destination in itself. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time traveler, Salt Lick offers an experience that combines stunning wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and luxury accommodations.
In this blog, we’ll review what makes Salt Lick Safari Lodge stand out as one of the top safari destinations in Kenya.
Location and Accessibility
Salt Lick Safari Lodge is situated in the Taita Hills, which is a private game reserve that borders Tsavo West National Park, one of the largest national parks in Kenya. The lodge is approximately a 4-hour drive from Nairobi, making it easily accessible by road. It can also be reached by air via the nearby Taita Hills airstrip, with charter flights available for a quicker journey.
What makes this location special is its serene and remote setting, surrounded by lush hills, valleys, and sprawling savannahs. Its proximity to Tsavo West National Park gives guests the advantage of having both privacy and access to some of Kenya’s best wildlife viewing areas.
Unique Architecture and Design
One of the first things that will strike you about Salt Lick Safari Lodge is its iconic architecture. The lodge is designed in a traditional Swahili and African style, with thatched roofs and wooden walkways that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. The main lodge area is built on a raised platform, offering guests panoramic views of the plains below, where elephants, zebras, giraffes, and antelopes are frequently spotted.
The lodge is famous for its “Salt Lick” concept, which refers to the salt lick waterholes located right next to the lodge. These waterholes attract a variety of animals, especially elephants, who come to drink and lick the salty earth. The lodge’s design allows you to watch these magnificent animals from the comfort of your room or the observation deck.
Accommodation at Salt Lick Safari Lodge
Salt Lick Safari Lodge offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different needs, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly stay, or a luxury experience.
- Standard Rooms: The standard rooms are spacious and comfortably furnished with traditional African decor. Each room comes with a large bed, mosquito nets, a private bathroom, and large windows that offer incredible views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll often find wildlife grazing just outside your window.
- Suites: For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the suites offer extra comfort with larger living spaces, private verandas, and upgraded amenities. The suites also come with a more exclusive setting, ensuring a quieter, more private experience for guests.
- Tented Accommodation: For those seeking an even closer connection to nature, Salt Lick offers luxury tented accommodation that brings the feeling of a classic safari camp with added comfort. These tents are well-equipped with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and private balconies.
Dining Experience
The dining experience at Salt Lick Safari Lodge is nothing short of amazing. Guests are treated to a blend of local and international cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Meals are served in the main dining area, which has large windows that allow you to continue enjoying the views of the wildlife while dining.
For a special experience, consider enjoying a meal under the stars at the outdoor dining area, where the sounds of the wild accompany your meal. The buffet-style meals are complemented by a well-stocked bar serving a range of beverages, including local wines, beers, and cocktails.
Wildlife and Game Drives
Salt Lick Safari Lodge is located in the Taita Hills Sanctuary, an area teeming with wildlife. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as a wide variety of bird species. The salt licks near the lodge attract a variety of wildlife, making it a prime spot for animal watching.
Guests can enjoy game drives within the sanctuary, as well as in the nearby Tsavo West National Park. The lodge offers both morning and afternoon game drives, providing ample opportunities to spot wildlife at different times of the day. A knowledgeable and experienced guide accompanies each drive, offering insight into the animals, the ecosystem, and the history of the region.
One of the most incredible things about Salt Lick is the wildlife sightings right outside the lodge. Animals often gather near the salt licks and waterholes during the day, providing guests with a front-row seat to some of Africa’s most stunning creatures without ever leaving the lodge.
Other Activities
In addition to game drives, Salt Lick Safari Lodge offers a variety of activities to enhance your safari experience:
- Walking Safaris: Accompanied by a trained guide, guests can take a walking safari through the surrounding bush, getting up close and personal with nature and learning about the flora and fauna of the area.
- Bird Watching: The lodge is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 300 species of birds to spot in the region. Whether you’re an amateur birdwatcher or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to see and learn.
- Cultural Tours: For those interested in local culture, Salt Lick offers excursions to visit nearby communities, where guests can learn about traditional Maasai culture, dance, and customs.
Customer Service
The level of hospitality and customer service at Salt Lick Safari Lodge is exemplary. The staff are friendly, professional, and attentive, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and comfortable from the moment they arrive. Whether you need assistance with booking a game drive or have special dietary requirements, the staff at Salt Lick go out of their way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.
Final Thoughts: Why Choose Salt Lick Safari Lodge
Salt Lick Safari Lodge offers a truly unique safari experience that blends comfort, adventure, and nature in an unforgettable way. The stunning location, world-class accommodations, excellent dining, and abundant wildlife make it one of the top safari lodges in Kenya. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family on an adventure, Salt Lick provides a perfect safari escape.
If you’re looking for an exclusive and immersive safari experience with access to some of Kenya’s most incredible wildlife, Salt Lick Safari Lodge should be at the top of your list. Book your stay today and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime!
Contact Crystal Tours Kenya Ltd:
For more information on how to book your stay at Salt Lick Safari Lodge or to plan your perfect Kenyan safari, contact Crystal Tours Kenya Ltd. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime!