🌍 Introduction
Perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the vast savannah of Tsavo East National Park, Voi Safari Lodge is a classic safari destination that has hosted generations of travelers. With sweeping views of the park’s open plains, active waterholes teeming with wildlife, and one of the best observation hides in Kenya, Voi Safari Lodge is a favorite for both first-time safari-goers and nostalgic returning visitors.
It offers a mid-range price point without compromising on location, experience, or comfort.
📌 Location & Access
Voi Safari Lodge is located inside Tsavo East, about 5 km from the Voi Gate, making it highly accessible for guests arriving by road or rail. Its clifftop position gives it unmatched views over the park, especially over the lodge’s waterhole which attracts elephants, buffalo, lions, and more.
🛣️ How to Get There
- By Road:
- From Nairobi: Approx. 5–6 hours’ drive (about 330 km) via Mombasa Road (A109)
- From Mombasa: Approx. 2.5 hours’ drive (about 160 km)
- By Rail (SGR Train):
- Take the Nairobi–Mombasa Madaraka Express and disembark at Voi Station. Transfers to the lodge can be arranged (~15–20 minutes by road).
- By Air:
- Charter flights can land at Voi Airstrip, just a short drive away.
🛌 Accommodation
Voi Safari Lodge offers 53 en-suite rooms, all designed with large windows and private balconies or verandas to maximize game viewing even from your room.
Room Features:
- Twin or double beds
- Private bathrooms with hot showers
- Ceiling fans
- Mosquito nets
- Private balcony with expansive park views
Note: Rooms are not air-conditioned, but the high elevation provides a natural breeze.
💲 Estimated Room Rates (Per Person Sharing, Full Board)
- Kenyan Citizens/Residents: From KES 7,500–9,500 per person
- Non-Residents: From $100–$130 per person
- Children under 5: Stay free
- Children aged 5–12: Pay 50% of adult rate when sharing with adults
Rates vary by season and are often lower during the green season (April–May, November).
🌿 Amenities & Facilities
- 🐘 Rock-cut wildlife observation hide near the waterhole
- 🍽️ Main restaurant with indoor and terrace dining
- 🍸 Bar and lounge with panoramic views
- 🏊 Swimming pool with poolside loungers
- 📶 Wi-Fi in public areas (limited signal strength due to remote location)
- 🛍️ Gift shop with local souvenirs
- 🛌 Massage services available on request
- 🚐 Ample parking & vehicle access
🍽️ Dining & Cuisine
Voi Safari Lodge offers buffet-style meals with a mix of local Kenyan, international, and vegetarian-friendly cuisine. Meals are typically served in the main restaurant or terrace area overlooking the waterhole.
- Breakfast: Full buffet with eggs, fruits, cereals, and Kenyan staples
- Lunch & Dinner: Rotating menus with meat, vegetarian, and salad options
- Drinks: Soft drinks, tea, coffee, beer, wine, and spirits available for purchase
✅ What’s Included
- Accommodation with selected meal plan (Full board or Half board)
- Use of lodge facilities (pool, viewing platforms, hide)
- Room cleaning and laundry service on request
- Government taxes and levies
❌ What’s Not Included
- Tsavo East National Park entry fees
- Game drives (can be arranged separately)
- Alcoholic drinks and personal beverages
- Tips, gratuities, and optional activities
- Transfers to/from lodge (available on request)
🎯 Activities & Experiences
While Voi Safari Lodge is often used as a relaxing base for game drives, it also offers several unique on-site experiences:
🦓 Game Drives
- Morning and evening drives can be arranged through the lodge or with your own safari vehicle.
- Key sightings include elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and the rare Hirola antelope.
🐘 Wildlife Viewing from the Lodge
- Watch animals gather at the lodge’s waterhole — particularly elephants, which are regular visitors.
- Visit the underground hide, tunneled into rock, for close-up wildlife photography and a unique viewing angle.
📷 Photography
- Perfect for capturing sunrise and sunset over the plains.
- Elevated views give a unique angle for spotting wildlife.
🌅 Sundowners & Stargazing
- Enjoy a drink at sunset from the bar deck or pool area.
- Night skies in Tsavo are spectacular due to minimal light pollution.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Voi Safari Lodge good for families?
Yes! The lodge is family-friendly with a pool, flexible meal options, and great animal sightings right from your room.
Can I book a safari vehicle through the lodge?
Yes. Game drives can be arranged directly at the lodge, or you can arrive with your own guide and vehicle.
Is the lodge fenced?
Yes, the lodge is fenced for guest safety, but wild animals can often be seen at the waterhole and surrounding grounds.
Do I need to book park tickets separately?
Yes. Tsavo East park fees are paid at the gate or online through eCitizen. Current rates:
- Residents: KES 500–1,000
- Non-residents: $52 per adult per day (subject to change)
Is there electricity and Wi-Fi?
Yes. The lodge runs on mains and generator power. Wi-Fi is available in common areas but may be intermittent.
🌟 Why Choose Voi Safari Lodge?
- Incredible hilltop location with panoramic views of Tsavo East
- Access to a busy waterhole visited by elephants, buffalo, and more
- Unique underground hide for wildlife viewing and photography
- Affordable, family-friendly accommodation with historic safari charm
- Convenient location near Voi Gate and SGR train access
If you’re looking for a well-located, affordable lodge with unbeatable wildlife views, Voi Safari Lodge is a classic choice in Tsavo East — offering both safari adventure and peaceful retreat.