What makes Salt Lick Safari Lodge unique and where does it fit among Kenya's safari options?
Salt Lick stands out with its 96 circular rooms built on stilts above the ground, creating a treehouse experience that's quite different from most safari lodges. What makes it special is how the elevated walkways and rooms put you right in the canopy level, giving you incredible views of the waterholes where elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife come to drink throughout the day and night.
It sits in the middle tier of Kenya's safari lodge options - more characterful and wildlife-focused than basic camps, but not as ultra-luxurious as some of the high-end properties. The unique architecture and guaranteed wildlife viewing from your room make it perfect if you want something memorable without breaking the bank. Plus, being in the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary means you'll see plenty of game without the crowds of the Maasai Mara.
Salt Lick Safari Lodge Photos
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Brilliant says
The lodge's elevated walkways and unique stilted design create some accessibility challenges. The property involves stairs and elevated platforms, making it difficult for guests with mobility issues. There are no lifts, and all rooms are accessed via steps and walkways.
Room Types
Salt Lick Safari Lodge features 96 uniquely designed circular rooms, all built on stilts across two levels for optimal wildlife viewing.
Each room includes ensuite bathrooms with hot and cold running water, ceiling fans, and private balconies overlooking watering holes and salt licks. The distinctive split-level design creates unobstructed 24-hour wildlife views from every accommodation.
Standard Twin Room
The room is built on stilts across two levels with a unique circular design, featuring two single beds and direct view of the watering holes and surrounding wildlife.
The room is fitted with a private en-suite bathroom with a rainfall showerhead, and the upper mezzanine level provides additional seating space.
Standard Double Room
The room is built on stilts across two levels with a unique circular design, featuring one double bed and direct views of the watering holes and surrounding wildlife.
The room is fitted with a private en-suite bathroom with a rainfall showerhead, and the elevated two-story layout provides excellent game viewing opportunities.
Room Rates
Prices at Salt Lick Safari Lodge start from $200 per room per night. All room configurations (Double, Twin, Triple) are priced at the same rate regardless of occupancy.
All Room Types (Double, Twin, Triple)
- Low Season (01 May - 30 Jun): $200 per room per night
- Shoulder Season (01 Apr - 30 Jun): $220 per room per night
- High Season (01 Jul - 01 Jan & 01 Jul - 01 Jan): $250-$288 per room per night
- Peak Season (02 Jan - 31 Mar): $288 per room per night
Children ages 5-12 are charged 50-75% of adult rate when sharing. Children 13 and above pay full adult rate. Children under 5 years are generally not permitted. Single supplement charges available upon request.
Prices are variable and subject to change. Please contact us for the latest rates.
Activities
For the wildlife enthusiasts, the lodge offers scheduled game drives, birdwatching around the sanctuary grounds, and the unique opportunity for game viewing directly from your stilted room overlooking the waterholes.
For the more adventurous, there are guided walking safaris, night game drives to spot nocturnal wildlife, and community visits to learn about local Taita culture and traditions.
There are also conservation-focused experiences including a tree-planting program where you can participate in supporting the Taita Hills ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salt Lick Lodge
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What types of rooms are available and what can I expect?
All 96 rooms have the same unique circular design built on stilts, but you can choose between Standard Twin rooms (two single beds), Standard Double rooms (one double or queen bed), and Triple rooms (three twin beds or a combination). Every room comes with an ensuite bathroom featuring a rainfall showerhead, mosquito nets, ceiling fans, a safe, coffee and tea facilities, and free bottled water.
The big thing to know is that all rooms are accessed by stairs since there are no elevators - it's part of the elevated treehouse design. If you want the best wildlife viewing, definitely request a waterhole-facing room when you book. These fill up fast because watching elephants drink from your private balcony is pretty incredible.
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What's included in my stay and what costs extra?
Your rate covers everything you need for a proper safari experience - accommodation, all meals at the Bura Restaurant (buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner), scheduled game drives in the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, and all park fees. If you book with us, transportation to and from the lodge is also taken care of as part of your package.
The main extras are drinks (both alcoholic and soft drinks), laundry, and optional activities like night drives or walking safaris. You can also arrange special dining experiences like private bush dinners or sundowners for special occasions, but these come at an additional cost.
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Are children welcome at Salt Lick Safari Lodge?
Children under 5 aren't permitted due to the lodge's elevated design and open walkways - it's a safety consideration with all those stairs and elevated platforms. Kids aged 5 to 12 are welcome and typically pay 50-75% of the adult rate when sharing a room with two adults. Once they hit 13, they're considered adults and pay the full rate.
The elevated walkways and wildlife viewing from rooms actually make it quite exciting for older kids who can appreciate the unique experience safely.
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When's the best time to visit for wildlife viewing?
The dry season from July to October is absolutely prime time for game viewing. Animals concentrate around the waterholes during these months, so you'll see consistent action right from your room and during game drives. This is also when rates are highest because it's such reliable viewing.
The green season from April to May offers a completely different experience - lush landscapes, fewer guests, and lower rates. There's a higher chance of rain, but the scenery is beautiful and you'll still see plenty of wildlife. Many people actually prefer this quieter time despite the occasional shower.
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What about spa facilities and swimming?
Salt Lick itself doesn't have a spa, but you can access the spa and swimming pool at the nearby Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa. There's a complimentary shuttle between the properties, so it's easy to pop over for a swim or spa treatment when you want a break from game viewing.
This actually works out well because you get the unique treehouse experience at Salt Lick plus access to more resort-style amenities when you want them.
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Is the lodge suitable for guests with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, Salt Lick isn't suitable for guests with physical disabilities or mobility challenges. The entire lodge is built on stilts with all rooms and public areas accessed only by stairs - there are no elevators anywhere. While some websites might claim wheelchair accessibility, this contradicts the lodge's fundamental treehouse design.
If mobility is a concern, we can recommend other safari lodges in Kenya that offer better accessibility while still providing excellent wildlife viewing.
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How reliable is the WiFi and what about electricity?
There's free WiFi in all rooms and some public areas, but being in a remote wildlife sanctuary means connectivity can be inconsistent. Don't count on it for important work calls or uploading lots of photos.
The electricity runs on 220 volts, 50 cycles AC, with special shaver outlets that handle both 110 and 220 volts. Power is generally reliable, but it's always smart to bring a portable charger for your devices on safari.
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The tours below showcase just some of what is possible. Use these itineraries as starting points, or to draw inspiration. Then get in touch, and let our expert team help craft the perfect itinerary for you.
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