Amboseli National Park

Encompassing 3,810 square kilometers in the Kajiado District of southern Kenya and extending across the Tanzania border, Amboseli National Park captivates with its breathtaking scenery. Anchored by the stunning snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro, this park stands as one of Kenya’s most popular safari destinations. Its popularity is easily understandable; offering plentiful opportunities to view big game year-round, coupled with convenient hour-long accessibility from Nairobi—it truly epitomizes an ideal wildlife adventure.

The unique ecosystem of Lake Amboseli and its namesake UNESCO-protected park boasts five main wildlife habitats, ranging from swamps and marshes to thick bushes and a dry lake bed. Despite the arid conditions, heavy rainfall floods Lake Amboseli with lush scenery; furthermore, melting snows from Kilimanjaro nourish marshes and springs. This diverse landscape offers an extensive range for wildlife spotting: over fifty mammals and four hundred bird species await discovery.

On the plains, one could observe a variety of wildlife: zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, and impalas. In addition to these, gerenuks–unique for their elongated necks –and oryx also inhabit arid bush areas. Small mammals such as jackals and hyenas; along with an array of African monkeys make their home within the park’s boundaries. Furthermore, rare water birds flourish abundantly in swamps and lakes—yet it is the presence of big game that truly captivates visitors here: lions; giraffes; buffalos; elephants – even leopards can be spotted on guided safari drives! For the best game and proximity to the Engoni Naibor and Loginya lakes, venture eastward within the park.

The popularity of safari tours often crowds Ambosei; however, the chance to witness elephants walking across open plains justifies the trip.

Aмbosеli National Park cost

The park entrance costs $80 per adult daily and $40 per child aged 3 to 18, each day.

Aмbosеli National Park highlights

The opportunity to see elephants up close in Amboseli is unparalleled. However, an early rise is necessary; venture towards the Ol Tukai and Olokenya swamps before 7 a.m.–you will witness them grazing against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Head to Observation Hill: from there, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the park and its surrounding mountains.

Activities at Amboseli National Park

While walking safaris remain prohibited, numerous lodges and camps allow invigorating nature walks in bordering areas and reserves alongside the native Maasai tribe. For those seeking a more intimate experience with wildlife, horse safaris offer an enticing option. Moreover, hour-long balloon safaris not only provide an exhilarating adventure but also guarantee astonishing views of the Mara plains.

Getting to Amboseli National Park

Accessible by a daily flight from Wilson Airport, Amboseli situates itself 240km southeast of Nairobi. Alternatively, one can opt for the bus journey departing the capital towards Namanga on Tanzania’s border; however – bear in mind that there is no available transportation directly to park gates from this point. Access and traverse through the park remains an exclusive privilege reserved for either private vehicles or safari tours.