THE AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK – KENYA's SAFARI GEM.

Amboseli National Park is a stunning wildlife sanctuary in Africa and the second-best safari park in Kenya. It is located near the Kenya-Tanzanian border, and it is home to large herds of wild elephants (up to 150 of them in one place). The park is home to the big cats and members of the big 5 including cheetahs, hippos, lions, cape buffalo, leopards, giraffes, impalas, zebras, and many other safari animals. The distance from Nairobi to the park is about 215 km. About 4-5 hours by road. We also offer flights from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park.

Our Amboseli National park safaris from Nairobi are tailor-made to bring you up close to the wonders of this park. Expect to see large herds of elephants against the backdrop of the nearby mount Kilimanjaro. You also get to enjoy a hot air balloon safari, walking safaris, bush dinners, bush breakfasts, Maasai village visits, morning game drives, afternoon game viewing, and more.

Our guides will take you to the observation hill, where you get to enjoy stunning views of the swamp below and large herds of elephants spread across it. The swamp below the Observation Hill is also a favorite spot for bird watching, common to spot water fowls like pelicans and Egyptian geese.

 

The observation hill also gives beautiful views of the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli. On a safari from Nairobi to Amboseli with us, expect to explore the 5 different habitats ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, wetlands with sulfur springs, the savannah, and woodlands.

 

But what is the best time to visit Amboseli National Park? What other Kenya safari destinations can you combine with a safari in Amboseli? And how much does it cost to visit Amboseli?

In this article, James Gatheru, our senior Kenya safari consultant, shares everything you need to plan the best safari to Amboseli. But before then, let us share our contact details and our most booked Amboseli National Park safari packages.

Contact Us to Book your Amboseli National Park Safari from Nairobi

We invite you to Contact Us via phone or WhatsApp at +254-704-532-105, and we will plan the best Amboseli National Reserve tour. Or email us at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com or James@ajkenyasafaris.com or even fill out our “Book a Safari Form” to get started.

Explore Our most Booked Amboseli safari packages from Nairobi:

3 Days Masai Mara Angama Mara Safari

3 Days Masai Mara Aa Lodge Safari

Land Cruiser
From Kes 140700

Safari Van
From Kes 113,500

3 Day Masai Mara Angama Mara Safari

Land Cruiser
From Kes 398,500

Safari Van
From Kes

3 Day Masai Mara Apasio Safari

Land Cruiser
From Kes 52,500

Safari Van
From Kes 49,300

3 Day Masai Mara Ashnil Mara Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 115,940

Safari Van
From Kes 104,440

Explore the Masai Mara like in style with a stay at Base Camp Explorer Camp

Tipilikwani Mara Camp Safari.

Land Cruiser
From Kes 129,600

Safari Van
From Kes 102,600

Base Camp Explorer Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 136,000

Safari Van
From Kes 109,000

Mara Ngeche Safari Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 173,600

Safari Van
From Kes 146,600

Keekorok Lodge Masai Mara

Land Cruiser
From Kes 202,240

Safari Van
From Kes

Mara Bush Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 168,700

Safari Van
From Kes 141,700

Mara Kimana Camp

Mara Kimana Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 121,600

Safari Van
From Kes 121,600

Mara Maisha Luxury

Mara Maisha Luxury

Land Cruiser
From Kes 153,100

Safari Van
From Kes 126,100

Mara Alopa Tented Camp

Mara Alopa Tented Camp

Land Cruiser
From Kes 115,600

Safari Van
From Kes 88,600

Mara River Lodge

Mara River Lodge

Land Cruiser
From Kes 108,600

Safari Van
From Kes 81,600

Great Rift Valley

Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

Land Cruiser
From Kes 139,600

Safari Van
From Kes 112,600

The Amboseli National Park Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know to Plan the Best Safari

 

Next, we will cover the most common questions we normally get from our guests about visiting Amboseli National Park.

What is the Best Time to Visit Amboseli National Park?

The best time to visit Amboseli National Park is during the dry season, which generally runs from late June through October. During this period, the park offers some of the most picturesque views in the world with open plains and clear skies. Additionally, wildlife viewing is at its peak due to the lack of vegetation cover and the absence of water sources. Different wildlife species congregate around the watering holes, making it easy to spot and take good photos.

December all the way to March is also a good time to visit Amboseli. The weather is normally dry and the prices are not as high as the peak season rates. For budget travelers, the most popular time to visit Amboseli is during the wet months between April and June. It rains a lot during these months, but the rates are also the lowest. The rain is mostly in the evening and morning, with clear skies and sunshine most of the day.

Why is Amboseli National Park famous?

The most popular attraction in Amboseli National Park is the spectacular backdrop of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The snow-capped peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro towers over the savannah plains and provides a beautiful backdrop for wildlife viewing. Amboseli is also famous for its large elephant herds and other big game, such as lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras. Additionally, the park is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a great destination for bird watchers.

In which town is Amboseli National Park?

Amboseli National Park is located in Kajiado County, just south of Nairobi. The closest town is the sleepy market town of Kimana, which lies on the eastern boundary of the park. Other nearby towns include Emali, Loitoktok, and Namanga.

Is Amboseli worth visiting?

Yes, Amboseli is definitely worth visiting! It offers some of the most spectacular views in Africa with its backdrop of Mt. Kilimanjaro and wide-open savannah plains. Wildlife viewing is excellent due to the low vegetation cover and lack of water sources, which attract all sorts of wildlife species. The park is also great for bird

Is Amboseli in Kenya or Tanzania?

Amboseli National Park is in Kenya. It borders Tanzania to the south and Tsavo West National Park to the west. The park covers 392 square kilometers (151 sq mi) and is located in Kajiado County, just south of Nairobi.

How much does it cost to visit Amboseli National Park?

The cost of visiting Amboseli National Park varies depending on the season, accommodation type, and activities

How many days do you need in Amboseli?

Most visitors spend two to three days in Amboseli National Park. This allows you enough time to explore the main attractions, such as the elephants and big game, as well as Mt. Kilimanjaro. However, if you are short on time or want more of a relaxed experience, then one day may be enough.

There are many things to do and see in Amboseli, including:

  • Game Drives: Amboseli offers game drives through the park, allowing visitors to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Guided Nature Walks: Walking safaris in Amboseli introduce you to the history and ecology of the area. They give you a more intimate exploration of the park.
  • Night Safaris: For a unique experience, visitors can take part in night safaris to spot nocturnal animals such as Leopards, hyenas, and bush babies.
  • Visit the Maasai Mara Cultural Centre: Visitors can also experience traditional Maasai culture by taking part in village tours.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride over the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro for an unforgettable safari experience.
  • View the sunset from the Observation Hill: This hill offers panoramic views of the park and is a great spot to watch the sunset. You get to see lots of wildlife in the swamp below and the dried-up lake.
  • Birdwatching: The park is home to over 450 recorded bird species. It is one of the prime destinations for anyone interested in birdwatching.
  • Lake Amboseli: The seasonal lake Amboseli is a good place to spot hippos, crocodiles, and other aquatic animals.

The list of things to do during a safari to Amboseli National Park are seemingly endless.

Location of Amboseli National park.

The Park is located in the Kajiado District of southern Kenya, approximately 215 kilometers southeast of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. It lies along the Tanzanian border, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro — Africa’s highest mountain— and covers 392 square kilometers (150 square miles) of savannah and wetlands.

How to Get to Amboseli National park.

Amboseli lies 215 kilometers from Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi on the border with Tanzania. You can reach it by car, public transport or plane.

BY CAR

The quickest way to get to the park is by driving from Nairobi, either on your own or in a rental car. The drive takes about 5-6 hours depending on traffic.

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Several bus companies operate daily services from capital city to Amboseli Park. The journey takes about 8-9 hours by bus.

BY AIR

The most convenient way to get to the park is to fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the park’s airstrip, which is located inside the park.

Accommodation in the Park.

Ol Tukai lodge

For those looking for a luxury stay, there are several lodges in the Park that offer comfortable and convenient accommodation. These include the Tortilis Camp, Ol Tukai Lodge, and Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Kobo Safari Camp, Amboseli Sopa Lodge, and Zebra Plains Amboseli.

For a more budget-friendly option, there are also several campsites located around the park. A popular choice is the Kimana Campsite, which offers basic but comfortable facilities at an affordable price.

Conclusion

The Park is a protected area in southern Kenya that is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and a variety of bird species. It is located in the Great Rift Valley, and is known for its large elephant population and its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Popular destinations that you can add to your Amboseli safari include Masai Mara Game Reserve, Tsavo West National Park, and Lake Nakuru Nakuru or Lake Naivasha. One of the best safaris in Kenya is a 6 days, 7 nights, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Masai Mara safari package.

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