Amboseli National Park covers 392km² (151 sq mi) and is a core part of the much larger Greater Amboseli ecosystem. This huge 8,000 km2 (3,100 sq mi) ecosystem also covers Tsavo (East and West), Chyulu Hills National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania. Plus everything in between. The glistening majestic snowcap of Mount Kilimanjaro dominates the landscape (see below). Consequently; it is one of the most popular national parks in Kenya.
Tortilis Camp safari in Amboseli – Burchell’s zebra
Amboseli offers a wide range of accommodation inside the park. As well as a number of small tented lodges just outside the park boundaries.
Amboseli National Park safari activities
Kenya proudly boasts that although Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, they have the best views of the mountain spectacle. And Amboseli has the best of these views. However, Mount Kilimanjaro has also shaped the habitat of Amboseli National Park as it provides an essential water source for this otherwise dry landscape. The melting snow sinks below ground creating freshwater springs and lush green wetlands.
This attracts over 420 species of birds including pelicans, kingfishers, crakes, hammerkops and 47 types of raptors. The Madagascar Squacco Heron shows up in intervals and the long-toed lapwing is a resident in small numbers. Birds of prey include the six species of vultures, the Taita falcon, and the Southern branded Harrier eagle.
Large numbers of flamingos may be present in the two rainy seasons (March to May and November to December).
Flamingos in flight
As well as the African elephant, cape buffalo, impala, hyena, giraffe, zebra, gazelle and wildebeest with lion and cheetah among the big cats that roam the area. It is most famous for its large herds of elephants.
Amboseli elephants on game drives with Kilimanjaro at Tortilis Camp
In the dry bush country towards Namanga you can find two interesting antelopes. The long necked gerenuk (giraffe necked antelope) and the fringe-eared oryx. In addition are smaller animals. Such as: black-faced vervet monkey and yellow baboon, black-backed jackals, spotted hyena, and bat-eared foxes. Which are often seen basking in the sun outside their dens.
You’ll explore the park on normal game drives, mountain biking, walking safaris, or horseback. Horse riding safaris are a big draw card in this area.
Amboseli horse riding safari with scenic Kilimanjaro
Best time to visit Amboseli and how to get there
The best time to visit is between June and October. This is when it is not as hot but is still warm and dry. This is also when the grass is shorter so wildlife are easier to spot. Animals don’t wander too far from water at this time. However, rates are higher and the park can be busy.
There are short rains in November / early December and long rains between March and May. This means it is the best time for birding. This is also when the view of Mount Kilimanjaro is best as there is less dust. Making photography at this time excellent. The rates are also lower at this time and the park is not as busy.
Amboseli National Park is approximately 200km from Nairobi and can be reached by road (approximately 4 hour drive) or air. The Madaraka Express train runs between Nairobi and Mombasa and stops at either Emali for Amboseli or Mtito Andei for Tsavo. This is ideal for a short visit to either or both parks. Speak to us for more information.
