National Parks | Kenya
Amboseli National Park in Kenya
Considered the “Home of the African Elephant”, and sitting proudly on the foothills of Africa’s most iconic tower of a mountain – Kilimajaro – Amboseli National Park is a biodiversity hotspot and an absolute spectacle for the senses.
Guided walks
Big game
Game drives
Community visits
Game drive
Walking safaris
Boat safaris
Big game
Everything you need to know:
Amboseli National Park, spanning 8,000 square kilometers and stretching across the border between Kenya and Tanzania, derives its name from the local Maasai word that means ‘salty dust’. It is an ecosystem that boasts of Africa’s highest peak and the world’s tallest free-standing mountain- Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is a renowned paradise that hosts a diverse landscape, abundant wildlife populations, and large herds of elephants, earning its title as “Home of the African Elephant.”
Where is the park located?
Amboseli National Park is a prominent wildlife conservation area situated in southern Kenya’s Kajiado South Constituency, under the jurisdiction of Kajiado County. The park shares a border with Tanzania and lies in close proximity to the towering Mount Kilimanjaro, providing guests with breathtaking views of its snow-capped peaks and magnificent surroundings.
What can you expect of the terrain?
Amboseli National Park is an exceptional destination that will captivate nature enthusiasts with a passionate interest in diverse ecosystems. Spanning five distinct habitats that include marshy wetlands, sulphur springs, open savannah plains, the dried bed of Lake Amboseli, and unique rock formations covered with thorn trees, the park’s ecological significance extends far and wide. In recognition of its role as one of UNESCO’s 701 Biosphere Reserves, Amboseli is an amazing testament to what conservation and protection of nature can achieve.
Thanks to the seemingly limitless supply of underground water from Kilimanjaro, the region remains verdant and lush throughout the year, creating an immersive oasis for a wide variety of species. The park’s permanent water supply provides a haven for animals and vegetation alike in all seasons and offers visitors an awe-inspiring view of palm trees and Acacia forests that will stay with them for years.
About the park
What type of wildlife will we see?
The national park is a unique habitat that boasts a diverse range of wildlife. It is renowned for being the main stronghold of East Africa’s elephant population, with over 1,600 majestic creatures that roam the woodlands, savannah and wetlands. The park is also home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, zebras, wildebeest, antelopes, and boasts a large diversity of birdlife, including several large birds of prey. During the rainy season, a portion of the lake still collects water, attracting a large number of aquatic birds, such as the beloved pink flamingos. It is truly a nature lover’s paradise and a sight to behold.
Top experiences to enjoy in Amboseli National Park
Amboseli offers a range of exciting experiences, including game drives, walking safaris, and the opportunity to learn about the local Maasai community and their culture. For an unforgettable experience, it is highly recommended to take advantage of the proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro. A guided nature walk through the foothills of this impressive mountain, led by a knowledgeable Maasai guide, presents a unique opportunity to explore the area’s diverse wildlife, meet local inhabitants, and witness stunning vistas. This immersive experience is both educational and entertaining, and an excellent way to experience the beauty of Amboseli.
When to visit
Amboseli National Park is located in close proximity to Kilimanjaro and as a result, it experiences mostly hot and dry weather throughout the year.
The mountain’s height results in the moisture being discharged on the mountain, leaving the air dry. The rainfall occurs only in April to May and November to December. Despite this, the game viewing possibilities remain excellent all year round, with the most favorable animal sightings happening during the dry season that is June to October, and January to March. The rainy season can be splendid with plentiful water supply, yielding spectacular vistas. However, animal sightings may be slightly more challenging during this period as the animals become more dispersed.