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In Amboseli National Park, the top activities include safaris to observe the large elephant herds, wildlife photography, and birdwatching. Visitors can also explore the observation hill for panoramic views of the park and Mount Kilimanjaro, or visit the local Maasai villages to learn about their culture. Additionally, a guided walking safari with a Maasai guide offers a unique opportunity to experience the park's wildlife up close.
Amboseli, meaning "dried lake," is a popular African resort located on the border between Kenya and Tanzania. From here, visitors can clearly see Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, at 5,895 meters. Near the equator, Mount Kilimanjaro's summit is perpetually capped with snow, while the beautiful plains below it offer breathtaking views. The mist-shrouded summit of Africa attracts countless tourists.
There are a huge number of various animals, among which the smart, enthusiastic, gentle and funny elephants are recognized stars there. Elephants are also "landscape gardeners".
Tropical savanna climate, best travel time is July to October
1 day
$40
6:00-18:00
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular wildlife destinations, known for its large elephant population and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. It was established in 1974 and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife including lions, giraffes, zebras, and a rich variety of bird species.
Amboseli National Park is located in southern Kenya, near the Tanzanian border, and is about 240 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. The park can be reached by road from Nairobi (approximately 4-5 hours), or by air via flights to Amboseli Airport from Nairobi or Mombasa.
Amboseli National Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife is easier to spot, especially elephants near the waterholes. The wet season, from November to May, offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
The entrance fee for Amboseli National Park is approximately $60 USD for international visitors and $20 for East African citizens. Tickets can be purchased at the park gate or online through the Kenya Wildlife Service website for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (June to October) to avoid long queues at the entrance. You can book online up to a few days before your visit.
To fully explore Amboseli National Park, a 1-2 day visit is ideal. This allows time for a couple of game drives, a visit to the observation hill, and the opportunity to experience the Maasai villages. Longer stays offer more chances for wildlife viewing and photography.
The must-see highlights include the Observation Hill, which offers panoramic views of the park and Mount Kilimanjaro, and the wetlands where large elephant herds gather. Don’t miss the Maasai villages for cultural insight, and explore the park’s rich biodiversity through game drives.
Guided tours are available in English, and visitors can hire local Maasai guides for walking safaris. These guides are knowledgeable about the park’s wildlife and ecosystems. Audio guides are not commonly offered in the park.
The best photography spots in Amboseli include Observation Hill, where you can capture the expansive views of the park and Mount Kilimanjaro. Early morning and late afternoon light create the best conditions for wildlife photography. The wetlands also provide stunning backdrops for shots of elephants and other animals.
Start your visit with a game drive around the park, heading towards the wetlands for close encounters with elephants. Visit Observation Hill for panoramic views, then take a break and enjoy lunch at one of the park’s lodges or campsites. In the afternoon, you can visit a Maasai village or take a second game drive to spot more wildlife.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Amboseli National Park. However, some lodges offer night game drives where visitors can spot nocturnal wildlife. These are guided tours, and advance booking is often required.
Amboseli can get crowded during peak tourist seasons (July to September and around Christmas/New Year). The least crowded times are during the shoulder seasons, such as in May or early June, before the high season starts.
Amboseli has basic facilities such as toilets, water, food stalls, and rest areas. There are several lodges and camps within the park offering meals, accommodations, and shops. The park also has a visitor’s center where you can buy souvenirs.
While Amboseli is generally accessible, the rough terrain and long game drives might be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. Children will enjoy the wildlife viewing, but it’s important to ensure they’re prepared for the safari environment. Some lodges may offer special services for disabled visitors.
Cash is widely accepted in Amboseli, especially for smaller purchases. Major credit cards are accepted at lodges and larger establishments, and mobile payments such as M-Pesa are commonly used in Kenya.
Inside Amboseli, there are lodges and camps offering meals. Nearby, in the town of Amboseli, you can find local eateries serving traditional Kenyan dishes like nyama choma (grilled meat) and ugali (cornmeal). The lodges inside the park also provide meals for visitors.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available at the lodges and camps inside the park. You can inform the staff of any dietary restrictions beforehand, and most places will be able to accommodate specific needs.
There are various accommodations inside the park, including Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Ol Tukai Lodge, and Amboseli Sopa Lodge. Outside the park, there are more budget-friendly options in the nearby town of Amboseli, such as guesthouses and campsites.
Other nearby attractions include the Chyulu Hills National Park and Tsavo West National Park, which can be combined with a visit to Amboseli for a longer wildlife safari. Mount Kilimanjaro is also a popular nearby landmark for hikers.
Yes, souvenir shops are available in Amboseli’s lodges and at the visitor’s center. Typical souvenirs include Maasai crafts, beaded jewelry, clothing, wooden carvings, and artwork. These make for great cultural and wildlife-themed gifts.
After visiting Amboseli, you can continue your trip by road to other parks like Tsavo or Nairobi. Private car hire, safari vans, and buses are common options. You can also fly out of Amboseli Airstrip for domestic flights to Nairobi or other major Kenyan cities.
