Famed as one of the world's most photographed destinations, Salt Lick Safari Lodge is an architectural marvel in Kenya’s 28,000-acre Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. Featuring 96 stilt-raised rooms connected by suspended walkways, it overlooks a floodlit waterhole where elephants and other wildlife gather day and night. Guests can enjoy day and night game drives, bush dining, and tours of historic World War I sites. Reaching the lodge is convenient, including a 2-hour-41-minute train ride from Nairobi to Voi via the Madaraka Express, followed by a 45-minute transfer.
4-days-amboseli-and-tsavo-salt-lick-lodge-keny-safari-from-the-coast
3-days-tsavo-east-and-west-kenya-safari-from-diani-beach
3-days-luxury-kenya-safari-itinerary-from-mombasa-to-tsavo-east-and-tsavo-west
3-days-tsavo-east-and-taita-hills-kenya-wildlife-safari-itinerary
What makes Salt Lick Safari Lodge so unique?
Salt Lick is famous for its distinct architectural style. The lodge’s 96 circular rooms are built on high stilts, resembling traditional African huts, and are linked by elevated, suspended walkways. This treehouse-like design positions you right at canopy level, offering uninterrupted, panoramic views of the surrounding savannah and the vibrant waterhole directly below.
Where is the lodge exactly located?
The lodge sits deep inside the private Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary in Taita-Taveta County, Kenya. This lush 28,000-acre sanctuary acts as a vital wildlife corridor adjacent to Tsavo West National Park.
How do I get there from Nairobi or Mombasa?
From Nairobi, you can take the Madaraka Express train to Voi (about 3 hours) and take a 45-minute transfer, or fly directly to the sanctuary's airstrip (1 hour). From Mombasa, it is an easy 3.5 to 4-hour scenic drive or a 30-minute flight.
Are children allowed at the lodge?
Yes, but with a specific age restriction. For safety reasons regarding the open-sided elevated walkways, children under the age of 5 are generally not permitted. Families with older kids love the unique triple-bed configurations and the educational wildlife experiences.
How close are the wild animals to the rooms?
You will be incredibly close. Because the waterhole lies right in front of the lodge, elephants, buffalos, and antelopes often wander directly underneath and around the stilted walkways. You can comfortably watch them graze or drink from the privacy of your own balcony.
Can I see animals at night?
Absolutely. The central waterhole is brightly floodlit throughout the night. This allows you to safely observe nocturnal animal activity, such as elephants or lions coming to drink, straight from the Vuria Bar Lounge, the restaurant, or your room's window.
What room types are available?
The lodge features 96 comfortable en-suite rooms, arranged in circular pairs on two levels. Depending on your travel group, you can book standard twin, double, or triple rooms, with either forest or direct waterhole views.
Do the rooms have Wi-Fi and modern amenities?
Yes. While the lodge offers an authentic bush experience, all 96 rooms include modern comforts such as en-suite bathrooms with hot running water, laptop-friendly workspaces, in-room safes, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
What activities can I do during the day?
Your days are packed with adventure. You can enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in customized 4x4 vehicles, guided nature walks, and visits to the local Maasai villages.
Are night game drives available?
Yes, night game drives are one of the most exciting activities offered. Guided by experts, these drives allow you to explore the sanctuary after dark and spot nocturnal species you would otherwise miss during the day.
What is included in a typical safari package?
A typical package includes full-board accommodation, return transfers from the Voi train station or local airstrips, sanctuary entry fees, and select game drives. It is always best to check with your specific tour operator for exact inclusions.
How much does it cost to stay at Salt Lick?
Prices vary depending on the season, room type (e.g., standard vs. waterhole view), and whether you are a local East African resident or an international traveler. Generally, rates start around $130 to $270 per night per person.
What kind of food is served at the lodge?
The main Bura Restaurant serves delicious, locally sourced, and international buffet-style meals. They also boast a 2.5-acre organic garden, ensuring your salads and veggies are incredibly fresh. Al fresco dining is also available.
Can the lodge cater to vegan or dietary restrictions?
Yes, they are very accommodating. If you have food allergies, veganism, or specific religious dietary requests, just notify the lodge prior to your arrival so their culinary team can prepare personalized meals.
Is there a swimming pool?
While Salt Lick itself focuses on the waterhole viewing, guests have access to the beautiful swimming pool located at the sister property, Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa, which is only a short distance away.
Can I get a drink with a view of the animals?
Definitely. The Vuria Bar Lounge sits on the upper level and offers spectacular, 360-degree views of the main waterhole and surrounding plains. It is the perfect spot to relax with a sundowner after a game drive.
What is the weather like at the lodge?
Because the lodge is perched at a slightly higher elevation, it enjoys a pleasant, spring-like climate year-round. Mornings and evenings are comfortably cool, while midday remains quite warm. Pack a light sweater for the nights!
Are there cultural experiences nearby?
Yes, guests can arrange visits to authentic local villages to interact with the Taita and Maasai communities, learn about their rich cultures, and see traditional dances.
What historical sites are accessible from the lodge?
History buffs can visit the World War I Museum and battlefields located at the neighboring Taita Hills Safari Resort. This area played a significant historical role during the East African campaign of the First World War.
Is the lodge eco-friendly?
Yes, Salt Lick is committed to sustainability. The property utilizes solar power, sources water from natural springs, uses natural cleaning products, has a strict recycling policy, and runs its own organic garden to minimize its carbon footprint.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The sanctuary is fantastic to visit year-round. However, the peak season for vast wildlife viewing is during the dry months from June to October, when animals are forced to congregate around permanent water sources like the lodge's waterhole.
How close is the sister property, Taita Hills Safari Resort?
The sister property is only about 5.5 kilometers (or an 8-minute drive) away. Guests at Salt Lick often head over there for spa treatments, a dip in the pool, or to visit the historical museum.
Are the safari guides experienced?
Yes, the lodge works with highly skilled, English-speaking local guides who know the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary intimately. They are great at tracking wildlife and teaching you about the ecosystem.
What kind of animals will I see on safari?
Within the sanctuary, you can spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, and impalas. The birdlife is also spectacular, making it a great destination for birdwatchers.
Can I book a tour that combines Salt Lick with a beach holiday?
Absolutely. Many tour operators offer combined packages, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing holiday on the Kenyan coast (like Diani Beach) and a 2- to 3-day safari excursion to Tsavo East and Salt Lick Safari Lodge.
