Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique and captivating wildlife haven nestled in the Taita Hills of Kenya, offering a blend of stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and a rich history.

A Sanctuary in the Hills:

• Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary is located within the lush, green Taita Hills, which are part of the Eastern Arc Mountains. This creates a beautiful landscape with rolling hills, valleys, and stunning views.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Taita Hills is part of a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot, meaning it’s home to a high concentration of unique and endangered species.
• Historical Significance: The area has a rich history, including its role in World War I. You can visit a museum within the sanctuary that tells this story.

Wildlife Encounters:

• Diverse Fauna: Taita Hills boasts a wide array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and various antelopes.
• Endemic Species: The sanctuary is particularly known for its endemic species, which are found nowhere else in the world. These include the Taita apalis, Taita thrush, Taita white-eye, and Taita falcon, among others.
• Birdwatcher’s Paradise: With over 300 bird species recorded, Taita Hills is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts.

Things to Do:

• Game Drives: Explore the sanctuary’s diverse landscapes on game drives, searching for its fascinating wildlife.
• Bird Watching: Bring your binoculars and tick off some of the park’s many unique bird species.
• Visit the WWI Museum: Learn about the history of the area and its role in World War I.
• Stay at Unique Lodges: Taita Hills offers some fantastic accommodation options, including the iconic Salt Lick Safari Lodge, where rooms are elevated on stilts, offering amazing views of the animals below.

Why Taita Hills is Special:

• Compact and Diverse: Despite its relatively small size, the sanctuary packs a punch in terms of wildlife and scenery.
• Endemic Species: The chance to see unique and endangered species found nowhere else is a major draw.
• Beautiful Scenery: The lush green hills provide a refreshing contrast to the more arid landscapes of some other Kenyan parks.
• Accessibility: Taita Hills is easily accessible from Mombasa and other coastal areas, making it a great addition to a beach holiday.

Visiting Taita Hills:

• Location: Taita Hills is located near the town of Voi, close to Tsavo West National Park.
• Getting There: You can reach Taita Hills by road from Mombasa or Nairobi.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to October) is generally the best time for wildlife viewing, but the sanctuary can be visited year-round.

If you’re looking for a safari experience that combines stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and a touch of history, Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is definitely worth considering. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, see some truly special animals, and learn about the fascinating history of the region.