This Kenya safari destination is 392kms in size which crosses the Kenya and Tanzania border. Amboseli National Park showcases these Classic East African landscapes with Elephants and Giraffes silhouetted against the snowy peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli is known as the best place in Africa for getting up close to free-ranging elephants. The population is so robust here that sightings are guaranteed! It’s just one of many reasons the park is the second most popular in Kenya
Protected from poachers, they carry their massive tusks with pride as they gather at predictable watering holes, delighting the many who come to Amboseli National Park to view these noble creatures. Amboseli is also a photographer’s paradise. Those wonderful photos you’ve seen of elephants seemingly posing in front of snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro? They were taken here.
Kilimanjaro, the largest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, towers over the park like a stately and photogenic sentinel. And when the clouds burn off at dusk or dawn, you’ll be treated to visions of its snowy peak.
Additionally, elephants are not the only wildlife attraction in the park. On your game drives on Amboseli’s great horizons you can spot wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, giraffes, sometimes you will be lucky to spot the long necked antelope- the gerenuk, gazelles and of course, cheetahs and lions. And not to be overlooked – smaller mammals like hyena, foxes, jackals, vervet monkey and the yellow baboon abound.
About Amboseli National Park
At 392 square kilometers (151 sq. miles) Amboseli is not a large park, but that is part of its charm. The smaller size also creates more of a concentration of wildlife and thus, easier viewing.
Location:
The park is situated northwest of Mt. Kilimanjaro on the Kenya/Tanzania border. It’s relatively close to the beaches of the Kenya Coast and can easily be a 1-day safari for those who wish a quick getaway from Nairobi.
Climate:
The park is generally hot and dry except during the rainy season. Average day time temperatures are a toasty 28oC/82oF.
When to go:
The park is open year-round and always accessible.
Best time to visit:
The best wildlife viewing is during the dry season (June – October). This is the time the animals flock to the marshes, lakes and other water holes. And so will you for the cool shade and to discover the wildlife.
Getting there:
By road – you can book a tour with Wasili Kenya Safaris from Mombasa or Nairobi. Access from Mombasa is through Tsavo West National Park through the Kimana Gate.
Note: many of the park’s interior roads are unnavigable during the rainy season because the volcanic soil becomes too muddy.
Things to do and see
The Elephants
With its reputation for active elephant sighting it’s easy to spot them roaming the plains in the morning and evenings. And during much of the day you can observe them splashing and foraging in Ol Okenya Swamp
Elephant Research Camp
The elephants at Amboseli live a rich and protected life. But they are also keenly studied, thanks to the pioneering work of Dr. Cynthia Moss. Echo, the most researched of the elephants, was the subject of numerous books and documentaries and studied for almost 40 years by Dr. Moss.
Observation Hill
With its pyramid shape this is a unique spot. It’s also one of the few spots in the park where you can get out of your safari vehicle and just walk. At the summit, take in the plains, marshes, lakes and roads below. You’ll see wonderful views of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the south and the great swamps to the east.
Sinet Delta
Not far from Observation Hill, take a northern road to the Sinet Delta for excellent birdwatching. As you turn south be on the lookout for giraffes foraging in the thicker brush. And some wonderful views of Kilimanjaro.
Maasai People
There are several Maasai communities around Amboseli Park. If you wish, your guide can arrange a visit to see and meet these authentic nomadic people and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
